Our Beginnings
In 1990, a group of American friends who had developed an affinity for Bahrain and its people through their time in the Kingdom decided to come together to create a place where they could share wonderful memories, recipes, and their affection for the culture. This collaboration, as well as the support of the Amir Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa of Bahrain and the endorsement of the President of the United States, allowed for the establishment of the American Bahraini Friendship Society which still stands today.
This Society reflects the special relationship that has long existed between the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain. This relationship was initially founded in 1893 when the American Mission Hospital, the oldest in Bahrain, began as a dispensary during a time when health services were at their initial stages. Additionally, the long and fruitful friendship with the U. S. Navy, beginning in 1949, reflects this special bond between the two countries. These relationships have developed into a rich and multifaceted interaction involving business, academic, and governmental dimensions.
Our Mission
The American Bahraini Friendship Society (ABFS) is dedicated to furthering the special relationship that has developed between the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain over the past years. The society intends to strengthen this bond through not only promoting friendship and understanding between the two countries but also by increasing the level of awareness of Bahrain in the United States of America. As a society, we are committed to enhancing historical, commercial, and social programs of mutual benefit while fostering closer ties between the two countries.
What We Do
The society seeks to strengthen this relationship through various activities. Some of these activities include promoting official and unofficial visits to both the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States. We also explore mutual educational opportunities and sponsor educational and social functions in both countries. Additionally, the society focuses on encouraging commercial and business bilateral relations.
How We Do
To carry out our mission, the American Bahraini Friendship Society provides mutual benefit opportunities to citizens of Bahrain and the United States through holding a multitude of activities throughout the year.
As a society, we…
- Organize both official and unofficial visits to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
- Craft letter exchanges between young students in both countries.
- Distribute informational materials about Bahrain to schools.
- Sponsor educational seminars alongside universities.
- Sponsors receptions and dinners on topics relating to the Gulf Region.