The real estate market in the Kingdom of Bahrain is gaining pace despite the challenges created by the pandemic, with a series of major projects and initiatives driving the sector growth. The rebound of Bahrain's real estate sector fueled a 14% and 20% rise in real estate deals in the third and fourth quarter of 2020 respectively, with the total value of real estate transactions in Bahrain reaching $1.9 billion (BD717.4 million) in 2020. Bahrain's National Real Estate plan for 2021-2024 is set to further increase the sector's contribution to the national economy as part of continued economic diversification efforts. The plan includes five initiatives and 17 projects, including laws and regulations, long-term plans and operational initiatives for developing the real estate sector. Mixed-use major real estate projects in the Kingdom set to exceed $12 billion which includes Eagle Hills Marassi Al Bahrain, Diyar Al Muharraq, Dilmunia and Bahrain Bay, which are creating prosperity through attractive and unique real estate destinations. Bahrain is a multidimensional marketplace that enables investment in a diverse range of properties that focus on addressing the growing consumer demand in Bahrain and the region for integrated communities that offer opportunities for the live, work, play lifestyle. Commenting on the latest real estate developments, Ali Al Mudaifa, executive director — investment origination at Bahrain Economic Development Board, said, "Bahrain's bounce back in the real estate sector is testament to the Kingdom's dedication towards economic growth." "Seeing these projects come to life has been a rewarding experience and we are confident that Bahrain's real estate sector will continue to grow in the coming years." In addition to delivering a total of 30,000 homes over the past five years, Bahrain's housing ministry is currently in the process of digitising their services to improve their offering. During 2020, the ministry completed around 45,000 transactions online, increasing efficiency and resulting in a 75% reduction in congestion time for housing service applications. — SG
