AirAsia Plans Bahrain Hub to Boost Middle East-Southeast Asia Connectivity

AirAsia, under its parent company Capital A Berhad, is set to establish Bahrain as its key Middle East aviation hub, marking a strategic expansion aiming to connect Southeast Asia with the Middle East and beyond. The partnership with Bahrain's Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications involves plans for over 25 daily flights by 2030, potentially operating a Bahrain-based Air Operator Certificate to serve destinations across the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa, and Europe. This move is expected to significantly boost Bahrain’s economy by up to $8 billion and support over 100,000 jobs, enhancing the country’s status as a regional aviation and logistics powerhouse. AirAsia's long-term vision includes expanding its fleet and network substantially, positioning Bahrain as a critical transit point for both passenger and cargo traffic. The initiative aligns with Bahrain’s broader economic diversification efforts and its ambition to rival other Middle Eastern hubs like the UAE and Qatar. Announcements about this major development were anticipated at the Gateway Gulf investment forum 2025, with AirAsia’s CEO Tony Fernandes highlighting the transformative potential of the partnership.