Qatar vs Bahrain Flag

Key Differences

• ✕Qatar's flag is maroon (dark burgundy), while Bahrain's is red.
• ✕Bahrain has 5 triangular points on the serrated edge; Qatar has 9.
• ✕Qatar's flag is notably longer with a ratio of 11:28, making it the only national flag whose width is more than twice its height.
• ✕Bahrain's flag has a 3:5 ratio — a more standard proportion.

Similarities

• ✓Both use white on the hoist side with a serrated dividing line.
• ✓Both feature a single color (red/maroon family) on the fly side.
• ✓Both represent Gulf Arab states with shared cultural heritage.
• ✓Both flags evolved from a plain red design used by Gulf states in the 19th century.

Why Do Qatar and Bahrain Flags Look So Similar?

Both Qatar and Bahrain originally flew plain red flags, common among Gulf states as a maritime identification. When the British requested the addition of white to distinguish treaty states, both adopted the white-and-red design with a serrated edge. The serrated line was a practical choice to prevent the colors from appearing to merge at sea. Both nations then evolved their flags independently — Qatar darkened its red to maroon (reportedly because the original red fabric faded to maroon in the harsh sun), while Bahrain standardized its 5-point design in 2002.

Color Comparison

Fun Facts

• 💡Qatar's flag is the only national flag whose width is more than twice its height.
• 💡Bahrain's 5 serrated points represent the Five Pillars of Islam.
• 💡Qatar's 9 points represent its position as the 9th reconciled emirate.
• 💡Both countries originally used plain red flags before British treaties required the addition of white.

Frequently Asked Questions