Bahrain Flag
National Flag of Bahrain
By Mohamadou Moctar · Last updated
What does the Bahrain flag mean?
Red echoes traditional Gulf flags and historical ties to the Khārijite Islamic sect, also symbolizing the martyrs’ blood. White conveys peace, as established in treaties with Britain. The serrated five zigzags explicitly represent the Five Pillars of Islam.
Bahrain Flag Display
Quick facts
- Adopted:
- February 14, 2002 (standardizing the five‑point serration to symbolize the Five Pillars of Islam)
- Aspect Ratio:
- 3:5
- Capital:
- Manama
- Population:
- Approximately 1.5 million (2023 estimate)
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Bahrain celebrates National Day every year on 16 December. See a live countdown, the history, and make a free greeting card to share.
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Shop now on AmazonBahrain Flag - Description
A vertical design with a white band at the hoist separated from a red field by a serrated line of five white triangles. This reflects historical identity tied to the Persian Gulf, evolving through treaties and design changes to its modern form adopted in 2002.
Bahrain Flag – Symbolism and Meaning
Bahrain Flag - History and Origins
Originally a plain red flag common in the region, it gained a white stripe in 1820 under British treaties. In 1932 a serrated edge was added to distinguish it from neighbors. The number of points decreased over time—first from 28 to 8, then officially to 5 in 2002, synchronizing with Bahrain’s status change to a kingdom.
Bahrain Flag - Design Elements
A white hoist section comprising 32.5% of the width, a larger red fly portion at 67.5%, separated by a vertical serrated line of exactly five white isosceles triangles. The Pantone for the red is defined as 485 C.
Bahrain Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol
Flag use is governed by Royal Decree (2002): it is flown daily on government buildings, embassies, and ships; vehicles display it only on official protocol occasions. It is raised at sunrise, lowered at sunset, shown at half‑mast during mourning, and misuse incurs legal penalties.
Further reading: Flag of Bahrain on Wikipedia
Flags Similar to Bahrain
The Bahrain Flag shares design elements with other national flags. These comparisons show how to tell them apart and why they look alike:
Bahrain vs Qatar
Qatar and Bahrain flags both feature a serrated white-and-maroon/red design. Learn the differences in color, points, and proportions.
Monaco vs Bahrain vs Qatar
Monaco, Bahrain, and Qatar flags all use red and white in minimalist designs. Compare these three flags, from European royalty to Gulf heritage, and learn how to tell them apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Bahrain Flag represent?
Red echoes traditional Gulf flags and historical ties to the Khārijite Islamic sect, also symbolizing the martyrs’ blood. White conveys peace, as established in treaties with Britain. The serrated five zigzags explicitly represent the Five Pillars of Islam.
When was the Bahrain Flag adopted?
February 14, 2002 (standardizing the five‑point serration to symbolize the Five Pillars of Islam)
What is the aspect ratio of the Bahrain Flag?
The Bahrain flag has an aspect ratio of 3:5.