From arts and design to digital tech and heritage, Bahrain’s new national initiative is putting creative industries at the centre of its future growth strategy.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization – Investment and Technology Promotion Office (UNIDO-ITPO) – Bahrain has announced the launch of the Orange Economy Year – a national initiative celebrating creativity as a driver of economic growth, in partnership with the RAK Art Foundation.

Unveiled at a recent press conference at the RAK Art Foundation, the initiative reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering innovation, cultural leadership and creative entrepreneurship globally. The Orange Economy (also called the creative economy) spans art, culture, media, design, technology and heritage industries, contributing more than USD2 trillion to global GDP and supporting 50 million jobs worldwide.

At the heart of the initiative is the Bahrain Global Call 2025: Creative Orange Economy, a competition inviting entrepreneurs, artists and innovators to submit sustainable business ideas. Open to participants worldwide, the initiative offers access to mentorship, exposure and potential global partnerships. Categories include Eco-friendly Production, Digital Innovation, Cultural Heritage and a special category for school and university students to nurture young talent. Applications are open until September 1, with finalists recognised at an awards event in December.

The Orange Economy Year will also feature conferences, exhibitions, community engagement activities and workshops focussed on encouraging innovation, preserving cultural heritage and connecting Bahrain’s talent with international markets. Playing a central role, the RAK Art Foundation will activate its educational arm, The Art Station, as a platform for creation, learning and cross-cultural exchange.

Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Founder of the RAK Art Foundation, said: “We are delighted to support the UNIDO in launching the Orange Economy Year. This collaboration reflects the RAK Art Foundation’s ongoing mission to support local talent, promote cultural dialogue and position creativity at the core of sustainable economic development.”

Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain, added: “This collaboration underscores the significant role of creativity in fostering economic growth, innovation and sustainable development. By promoting cultural leadership and nurturing entrepreneurship, we aspire to position Bahrain as a global epicentre for the Orange Economy, thereby demonstrating the Kingdom’s dedication to inclusive growth and economic diversification. ✤

GO: VISIT ITPO-MANAMA.UNIDO.ORG/GLOBAL-CALL-2025 TO PARTICIAPTE.