Bahrain

LOCATED IN THE Persian Gulf, the kingdom of Bahrain extends over three islands in the gulf, covers 253 sq. mi. (665 sq. km.), and has a population of 698,585 (2005 est.), with a population density of 2,556 people per sq. mi. (987 per sq. km.). About one percent of the land is arable, with 6 percent used for pasture. The largest agricultural products are fruits and vegetables. The soil has been heavily affected by salinity and the country has suffered from extensive soil erosion.

As with the other Gulf States, Bahrain has a wealthy population, largely dependent on the petroleum industry, a high Gross Domestic Product per capita, and heavy use of automobiles and air conditioning. With all of the electricity in Bahrain generated from using ...