AGP Executive Report

F1 & WEC Disruption: Bahrain’s Bapco Energies Eight Hours and Qatar’s WEC finale were cancelled due to ongoing regional uncertainty, with Bahrain International Circuit confirming refunds for ticket-holders and stressing the 2027 calendar spot remains. Bahrain in the Region: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed strikes on U.S. Fifth Fleet facilities in Bahrain after U.S. strikes on Iranian territory, as the Middle East conflict continues to roil shipping and security. Local Courts & Security: Bahrain’s High Criminal Court convicted 16 in terrorism cases, including life sentences and prison terms for social-media support of Iranian attacks. Municipal Rules: Muharraq Municipal Council pushed for tighter licensing of sheesha cafés, calling for them to be kept away from homes, schools, worship sites and community facilities. Digital Economy: Bahrain is preparing a major e-invoicing rollout to modernise the tax and financial ecosystem. Youth & Culture: Youth City 2030 activities continued, while the Date Palm Festival is set to kick off and the Friday Flea Market returns with 90 stalls under construction.

F1 in Bahrain’s hands: Sepang International Circuit CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif says Bahrain will decide ticket prices for the Oct 2-4 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, with all ticket sales proceeds returning to Bahrain; SIC is still negotiating with Bahrain for cheaper options for Malaysians, possibly “MyKad” pricing, while Bahrain also covers the F1 rights fee (about US$70m-US$80m) and Malaysia shares local prep costs of around RM40m. Regional security: Bahrain joined Arab countries and regional bodies in strongly condemning attempted drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities, calling it an Iran-backed escalation from Iraq. Banking and skills: The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) and Saudi’s Bank Albilad signed an agreement to deliver specialised AI training programs for banking staff under the “Albilad AI” initiative. Aviation and travel: AirAsia X postponed its London return again to March 2027, citing ongoing Middle East instability that disrupted plans to use Bahrain as a hub. Inflation watch: A Reuters poll warns persistently high global inflation could linger as the Middle East conflict drags on growth prospects.

F1 in Bahrain’s orbit: Formula One and the FIA confirmed Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang on Oct 2-4, with the event branded the “Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia” as Bahrain’s rescheduled race slot is preserved. Regional security: Bahrain condemned a drone attack on Saudi oil facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh, saying drones were launched from Iraqi territory by Iran-backed militias, and warned it violates international law while reaffirming full solidarity with Saudi Arabia. UK legal milestone: Britain’s Supreme Court dismissed Bahrain’s bid for state immunity in a spyware case brought by dissidents in the UK, ruling the remote infection counted as an act in Britain. Road safety push: UNITAR and the FIA launched the Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life programme for the MENA region, training clubs and local authorities to cut road deaths. Education services: Bahrain’s Education Ministry opened online registration for new Grade One students (2026-2027) via the National Portal until Aug 6. Youth and sports: Bahrain’s volleyball team will play a South Korea friendly for the 50th anniversary of ties; Fearless Fighters won the inaugural Champions Kabaddi League title. Business & tech: Amakin reported lower Q2 and six-month profits, citing delays linked to regional aggression; NBB and BENEFIT signed an MoU to develop advanced digital financial solutions.

F1 in Bahrain’s orbit: Formula One and the FIA confirmed Malaysia will host the 2026 “Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix” at Sepang International Circuit from Oct 2–4, after Bahrain’s race was cancelled earlier amid regional conflict. Diplomacy behind the move: Bahrain’s Cabinet said the decision reflects the longstanding ties between King Hamad and Malaysia’s Sultan Ibrahim, while Malaysia’s PM Anwar said the country’s stability and royal trust helped win the hosting spot. Ticket access push: Anwar said Malaysia is studying lower-priced “MADANI tickets” to broaden access, though not for front-row seats. Local impact for Bahrain: Bahrain’s national carrier Gulf Air said it plans direct flights to Kuala Lumpur for the race, with details to follow. Legal spotlight: The UK Supreme Court rejected Bahrain’s immunity bid in a dissidents’ spyware lawsuit, allowing claims over alleged FinSpy hacking to proceed. Regional security & markets: A US-Iran strike pause lifted Gulf stocks and eased oil briefly, but attacks on Saudi oil facilities and ongoing Strait of Hormuz restrictions kept risks high.

F1 & Bahrain: The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is set to return on a new home turf, with organisers confirming Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit will host the race on Oct 2-4, after the April cancellation linked to regional conflict. Regional diplomacy: Iran says it has suspended attacks on US targets after Washington halted new strikes for two nights, while Omani-led talks aim to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Security law: Bahrain MPs are pushing the toughest-ever overhaul of the Anti-Terrorism Law, citing new recruitment and covert threats. Local governance & services: Parliament approved a nursing and midwifery college at Bahrain Polytechnic to boost Bahraini healthcare staffing. Consumer support: A new government price-check website will let families compare costs of 30 basic foods daily across outlets. Business & sustainability: Mnakh’s sustainability index in Kuwait ranks Zain, KFH and NBK highest in the region. Sports: Hamilton says Ferrari’s strategy cost him in Hungary as the F1 season heads into its next phase.

F1 in Bahrain, but raced in Malaysia: Formula 1 has confirmed the 2026 “Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix” will be staged at Sepang International Circuit in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 2–4, after the Bahrain race was cancelled earlier this year amid West Asia security tensions. The move keeps the calendar at 23 races, with ticket details to follow, and is framed as a one-off relocation under an agreement between F1, the FIA and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia. Royal diplomacy: Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa spoke by phone with Malaysia’s PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, reaffirming commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation across sectors and discussing regional developments. Local economy and society: Bahrain Chamber marks more than a century of backing the private sector, while farmers in Buri are calling for stronger government support, including help with costs, water and market access. Heritage and youth: The Crown Prince highlighted Bahrain’s cultural and archaeological legacy, and praised Bahraini youth for innovation and entrepreneurship, including startup wins supported by Tamkeen. Regional security backdrop: Reports say the US has paused strikes on Iran while talks with Oman focus on managing safe shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

Gulf Security & Iran-US Tensions: Ukraine’s Zelenskyy accused Russia of sharing satellite intelligence with Iran to help target US bases and Gulf facilities, naming Bahrain and Kuwait among sites monitored in mid-July. Regional Conflict Watch: Iran said it had a rare “peaceful night” after days of US strikes, while Trump reportedly paused further US action after adviser warnings about shrinking Patriot interceptor stocks. Local Travel Impact: Bahrain and Kuwait-linked flight disruptions continued, with Etihad extending Kuwait cancellations and noting a Bahrain-Abu Dhabi cancellation; Emirates schedules were also listed with advice to check updates. Visa Access Push: MPs launched a campaign to expand visa waivers and visa-free travel for Bahrainis, including extending China access and pursuing easier entry to the Schengen area, the UK and other destinations. Industry & Trade: Bahrain will host the inaugural Made in GCC 2026 Forum and Exhibition (Oct 6-8) at Exhibition World Bahrain, aiming to boost GCC industrial integration. Environment: A fishermen-led monitoring committee is set to tackle pollution at Barbar Creek, targeting waste dumping and cleanliness. Culture & Society: A young Bahraini film developer is reviving analogue photography, while BYLA reported rising demand for women’s counselling and rights awareness.

Local Health Security: Bahrain pharmacists say medicine stocks are steady, with about 90% of drugs kept on shelves and regular imports continuing despite higher freight costs, easing fears of shortages for chronic conditions like diabetes, blood pressure and heart disease. GCC Industrial Push: Bahrain will host the inaugural “Made in GCC 2026” Forum and Exhibition from Oct 6-8 to boost Gulf industrial cooperation, diversification and supply-chain resilience, with a major exhibition of Gulf-made products and technologies. Culture & Youth: A Bahrain Summer Toy Festival performance by Syrian cartoon music legend Tarek Al Arabi Tourgane drew parents and kids alike, while a student competition finale “From the Classroom to the Spotlight” celebrated youth skills and confidence. Regional Security Shockwaves: Iran reported a “peaceful night” after 13 nights of US strikes, but Bahrain and Saudi Arabia still sounded missile alerts; meanwhile reports say Bahrain and Kuwait have carried out secret airstrikes on Iran with UAE backing, and Kuwait’s KPC signed a $16bn pipeline deal with major investors amid rising Gulf tensions. F1 Contingency Talk: With Bahrain’s 2026 race disrupted by the region’s conflict, Malaysia is set to announce a possible October F1 return, and Bahrain’s own F1 plans remain in flux.

Bahrain Security: Bahrain reported intercepting and destroying Iranian aerial threats as Iran said it carried out drone attacks on US assets including Isa Air Base in Bahrain, alongside strikes in Jordan and Kuwait, while sirens were heard in Bahrain amid the wider US-Iran escalation. US-Iran Escalation: The US said it completed a 13th straight night of strikes aimed at reducing threats to shipping around the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran warned civilians to stay away from US-linked sites and issued fresh claims of attacks across the region. Regional Spillover: Saudi Arabia struck Yemen’s Hodeidah after Houthi attacks on Saudi tankers in the Red Sea, with the Houthis vowing retaliation and a new maritime blockade threat adding pressure to already strained shipping routes. Diplomacy vs War: Trump said he has not decided on major new strikes even as talks continue, while a ceasefire proposal was rejected and both sides signalled escalation risk. Saudi Nuclear Deal: The White House reiterated that any Saudi civil nuclear deal is tied to Saudi normalization with Israel via the Abraham Accords, keeping Bahrain’s regional diplomacy in the spotlight. Economy & Travel: Oil prices pushed above $100 as shipping fears grew, and multiple countries issued travel alerts and flight disruptions affecting Gulf travel plans.

Gulf Security Escalation: Bahrain sounded air-raid sirens again early Friday as the U.S. wrapped up its 13th straight night of strikes on Iran, while Iran’s IRGC claimed fresh drone attacks on U.S. facilities and assets in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, warning civilians to stay 500 metres away from locations it says host American troops. Regional Fallout: Explosive drones also hit a U.S.-linked area in northern Iraq near Erbil, with sirens heard in Bahrain; the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea shipping risks continue to rattle markets and travel plans. Bahrain Air Defence: Bahrain’s defence forces said they intercepted several Iranian aerial attacks targeting civilians, urging residents to avoid debris and report suspicious objects. Local Infrastructure: Bahrain’s Works Ministry opened the first phase of a major Isa Town road flyover at the Northern Isa Town Intersection to ease congestion and boost capacity on Shaikh Salman Highway. F1 Watch: Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit chief said it is still under an NDA with F1 rights holder Liberty Media, as the Youth and Sports Ministry weighs a possible October race to replace the Bahrain GP amid ongoing regional disruption. Markets & Costs: Gold and silver rose for the week as oil eased from above $100 and bond yields climbed, reflecting investor stress from the Iran conflict.

US-Iran Escalation and Bahrain on Alert: The US carried out its 13th straight night of strikes on Iran as clashes spread across Gulf shipping routes, while Bahrain and other regional states reported fresh missile and drone attacks, raising fears for civilians and critical infrastructure. Red Sea Shock to Energy Prices: Yemen’s Houthis targeted Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, pushing Brent crude above $100 a barrel and reviving worries about new chokepoints alongside the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Nuclear Deal Conditioned on Israel Ties: Trump said the US-Saudi civilian nuclear agreement is “totally subject” to Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, a move that could derail the pact and inflame regional diplomacy. Bahrain Innovation in Pearls: Danat and MIT filed a joint patent for AI pearl identification technology, aiming to improve precision in gemological testing. Bahrain Digital and Maritime Updates: Bahrain’s Small Vessels Registration Office logged 9,636 registered vessels and expanded portal-based services, while several airlines cancelled or adjusted flights due to the regional situation. Local Safety and Youth Programs: Muharraq began demolishing long-abandoned unsafe homes, and Youth City 2030 media programmes were reviewed as Bahrain backs youth training and talent.

Red Sea Shipping Shock: Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis claimed they attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, raising fresh fears of a new chokepoint as tankers reportedly diverted and oil briefly pushed toward $100 a barrel. Gulf Security Alerts: Bahrain sounded air-raid sirens and urged residents to move to safe areas amid the wider US-Iran escalation, while Kuwait and Jordan reported intercepts of drones and missiles. US-Iran Escalation: The US carried out its 12th straight night of strikes on Iran, with Iran and its allies trading threats and claims of attacks on US bases across the region. Travel Warnings for Bahrain: The UK Foreign Office advised Britons to avoid Bahrain and Kuwait unless essential, warning of flight cancellations, airspace closures and “unforeseen escalation.” Nuclear Deal Politics: Trump said the US-Saudi civilian nuclear cooperation would proceed only if Saudi joins the Abraham Accords and recognises Israel, stressing “no enrichment of material.” Local Economy & Payments: Pay10 launched in Bahrain, expanding digital payments for consumers and merchants. Northern Governorate Safety: The Northern Governorate Security Committee reviewed summer safety priorities, including stronger oversight in public parks and coastal areas. Youth Hospitality Programme: Vatel Bahrain launched “Explore Hospitality,” a two-week summer programme for ages 15-18 to explore careers in tourism and hospitality.

Bahrain Business: Zain Bahrain posted Q2 profit attributable to shareholders of BD1.39m (+1.4%) and H1 profit of BD2.57m (+1.2%), though revenue slipped in both periods amid regional geopolitical pressure. Gulf Security: The US carried out a 12th straight night of strikes on Iran as President Donald Trump warned Washington will “bomb and destroy” one Iranian bridge or power plant for every ship attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran vowed an “eye for an eye” response. Red Sea Shipping: Yemen’s Houthis claimed missile and drone strikes on Saudi tankers, saying they violated a blockade, as oil routes face fresh disruption and global energy risk rises. Local Infrastructure: Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid chaired a projects meeting directing the opening of the Isa Town Interchange Bridge to traffic soon and reviewing progress on Muharraq development and digital government services. Community & Justice: Bahrain’s courts heard a sex-trafficking case involving alleged recruitment and exploitation for work in Bahrain, while animal rescuers reported 53 cats found in appalling conditions, with dozens already rescued.

Middle East War Escalation: US President Donald Trump warned Iran that for every attack on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, Washington will destroy “ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT,” as the conflict enters its 10th consecutive day and the US carries out an 11th night of strikes. Regional Fallout for Bahrain: Missile alerts sounded in Bahrain during the renewed exchange of fire, while Iran also targeted US-linked bases across the Gulf, including claims tied to Bahrain’s Sheikh Isa Air Base. Diplomacy in Doubt: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US is still open to negotiation but doubts Tehran is “serious,” as talks via mediators in Pakistan show little progress. Travel and Aviation Disruptions: The EU aviation safety agency extended no-fly guidance for Jordan and reiterated broader Middle East airspace warnings, adding to flight uncertainty for travellers. Local Development: Tamkeen and M42 signed an MoU to support healthcare training and launch the Amana Academy in Bahrain, with digital health initiatives planned. Healthcare Upgrade: Bahrain’s Health Minister inspected Salmaniya Medical Complex’s pharmacy automation project, including dispensing robots and smart inventory systems.

Gulf Security: Bahrain sounded air-raid sirens again as Iran launched fresh missile and drone barrages, with Bahrain saying its air defences intercepted and destroyed incoming projectiles. Regional Escalation: The US completed its 11th straight night of strikes on Iran, targeting military operations centres, maritime capabilities and drone storage, while Iran and allied forces kept hitting US-linked sites across the region. Shipping Disruption: A tanker in the Strait of Hormuz was reported hit, forcing its crew to abandon ship, as Houthis threatened a Red Sea blockade and two Saudi crude tankers reportedly reversed course. Local Impact & Response: Bahrain’s rights watchdog proposed a unified national database to document damage from Iranian attacks, and warned residents about a fake “BH Alert” app that could steal passwords and banking details. Business & Energy: Halliburton shares fell after a tepid forecast, citing uncertainty over the pace of Middle East recovery as oil prices stayed elevated. Diplomacy & Costs: UN chief Guterres urged stepped-up diplomacy, while US officials pressed Congress for emergency defence funding amid rising war costs.

Gulf Security Escalation: Bahrain reported intercepting Iranian missile and drone attacks as sirens sounded across the kingdom amid a wider US-Iran standoff, with Iran also claiming strikes on US-linked sites in Bahrain and Kuwait. Tech and Infrastructure Under Fire: Iran’s IRGC claimed it hit Amazon data infrastructure in Bahrain, while the US said it targeted Iranian command, radar and air-defence capabilities; the clash is also disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Water Security Worry: Kuwait said Iranian strikes damaged power and desalination plants, underscoring how vulnerable Gulf water supplies are in the conflict. Regional Shipping Slowdown: Strait of Hormuz traffic has fallen sharply, with transits down week-on-week as vessels avoid the area. Bahrain Health Update: Salmaniya Medical Complex upgraded its dental clinics, replacing units and adding new equipment under infection-control standards. Insurance for War Risks: GIG Gulf launched an optional war cover add-on for motorists and selected commercial fleets in Bahrain. Local Business & Lifestyle: VORO Roastery opened at Bahrain Harbour, adding an outdoor specialty coffee concept for residents.