beOnd partners with Bahrain to establish a premium airline and centre of excellence, projected to contribute $1.5 billion to the economy.
New Premium Airline in Bahrain to Create 1,200 Jobs, Boost Economy
Officials announced on Monday that a new premium airline is planned for launch in Bahrain, creating 1,200 direct jobs.
beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has signed an agreement with Bahrain to explore the establishment of an airline in the Gulf country, connecting Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.
The airline aims to operate up to 10 aircraft based in Bahrain by 2030, serving both leisure and business travelers. Over its first five years of operations, beOnd projects a contribution of approximately $1.2–1.5 billion to Bahrain’s GDP.
The initiative is expected to generate more than 1,200 high-skilled direct jobs and support over 6,000 indirect positions across tourism, hospitality, logistics, and related sectors.
beOnd to Establish Premium Airline in Bahrain, Supporting Jobs, Skills, and Economic Growth
Aligned with the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, the agreement will support job creation for nationals and foreign workers, promote economic diversification, and stimulate private-sector growth.
beOnd plans to introduce structured training programmes for pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff, positioning Bahrain as a hub for advanced aviation skills, complete with simulators and maintenance facilities. The airline will also leverage AI across operations, maintenance, revenue management, distribution, and passenger experience.
Luxury aviation is expanding rapidly across the UAE and the wider Gulf region, with several charter operators serving high-net-worth individuals and affluent families. In December 2025, beOnd announced the start of its process to launch an airline and obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in Saudi Arabia.
“Establishing a Bahrain-based airline is a natural next step in our multi-jurisdictional strategy. Together, we have the opportunity to build a premium aviation platform that strengthens connectivity, develops specialised talent, and supports innovation across the travel value chain,” said Tero Taskila, CEO of beOnd.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, added, “We look forward to having beOnd aircraft with a Bahraini AOC. It’s a pleasure to have beOnd as part of the Kingdom’s aviation ecosystem.”
beOnd plans to continue expanding its fleet and establishing new operating bases as it scales its premium leisure offering globally, anchored in simplicity, thoughtful design, and elevated service.
