History of the Bahrain Flag: Red-White Tradition, Serrations & the 2002 Five-Point Design
Bahrain’s current flag developed from a much older Gulf red-and-white flag tradition before its serrated boundary was standardized at five points in 2002.
Early red flag tradition
Red flags have a long history in the Gulf, including in Bahrain and neighboring sheikhdoms.
1820 and the white section
Bahraini flag history is commonly traced through the nineteenth-century Gulf treaty period, when white was added to distinguish peaceful treaty states from other red flags.
Why was a serrated edge introduced?
The zigzag boundary helped distinguish Bahrain’s flag more clearly from other red-and-white Gulf flags, especially at sea.
20th-century point changes
Earlier versions used more serrations than today. The number of points was reduced over time as the design was standardized.
2002: the current five-point flag
Decree-Law No. 4 of 2002 established the modern flag of the Kingdom of Bahrain with five white triangular points.
Why five?
The five points are associated with the Five Pillars of Islam.
How did statehood affect the flag?
The 2002 legislation followed Bahrain’s transition from state to kingdom and standardized the national flag’s modern proportions and construction.
What stayed constant?
The basic identity remained red and white, preserving continuity with Bahrain’s older Gulf flag tradition.
Quick timeline
| 19th century | Red-white Gulf flag tradition develops |
|---|---|
| 20th century | Serrated boundary becomes distinctive |
| 2002 | Five-point current design standardized |
