Retail

The Retail sector is one of Bahrain’s thriving and growing sectors, experiencing a 7% year-over-year national real GDP growth in 2023. E-commerce transactions are on the rise with a growth rate of 5.6%. Whilst new businesses are opening up, solidifying retail as one of the fastest growing non-oil sectors in Bahrain, contributing 4% to the country’s GDP. The sector is a major job creator in Bahrain and positioned as the largest employer in the private sector as of Q2 2023.

The Retail Sector Skills Report was developed through a comprehensive methodology, including international benchmarking, adherence to International Labour Organization guidelines, and a series of Sector Working Group sessions to gain deep insights into the specific needs and dynamics of Bahrain’s Retail sector.

According to data from Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), Social Insurance Organization (SIO)
  • 130,549

    Total employment

Key jobs in demand for the Retail sector

According to the Retail Sector Working Group

  • Customer Experience Associate
  • Store Managers
  • Supply Chain Specialists
  • E-Commerce Executives

The top core skills in demand for the Retail sector

According to the Retail Sector Working Group

  • Adaptibility
  • Communication
  • Empathy
  • Planning and Organizing
  • Problem Solving
  • Digital Literacy

Reports

Below is a series of evidence-based reports as well as supplementary publications to provide an in-depth analysis of the skills gap and highlight valuable insights into the trends, challenges, and opportunities in the sector.

Sector Skills Report
Career Pathway Maps