Baland Al Rabayah

Can the adoption of electric cars reduce energy and emission outcomes in the Kingdom of Bahrain?

Can the adoption of electric cars reduce energy and emission outcomes in the Kingdom of Bahrain?

In this discussion paper, we look at the potential effects of adopting electric cars and their outcomes on the Kingdom of Bahrains Energy consumption and CO2 emissions. We construct a simplified model that looks at different potential adoption rates of electric vehicles and how this affects transportation energy and emissions outcomes based on assumptions about fuel consumption, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle fuel efficiencies, and other essential variables. We find that under our assumptions, the Kingdom would see 17% lower energy usage for transportation sector, 0.84% lower overall energy usage, 8% reduction in per year emissions for the transportation sector, and a 0.51% reduction in overall emissions per year.

Did COVID-19 reduce local fuel demand in the Kingdom of Bahrain?

Did COVID-19 reduce local fuel demand in the Kingdom of Bahrain?

COVID-19 has led to severe disruptions in how society interacts in 2020 and onwards. With COVID-19 restrictions being placed in the earlier stages of the pandemic, the need for daily mobility towards work, education, and leisure centers had dwindled significantly. However, it is unknown to what extent the COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions affected fuel demand in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This article aims to explore how the early-stage pandemic affected gasoline and diesel consumption in the Kingdom. Furthermore, we also extrapolate from the findings on the potential hypothetical benefits of transitioning to a “work at home” type of environment and whether this would have any significant economic effects that the Kingdom would reap.

The Curious Case of Men in the Labor Force

The Curious Case of Men in the Labor Force

This discussion paper looks at the latest employment data published by LMRA. In particular, we look at Bahraini employment ratios derived using working-age population estimates from IGA. We find that overall, Bahraini employment ratios have decreased in recent years, with a particular notice in a decline of male employment ratios.

Should the GCC Implement Nutrition Labeling at restaurants?

Should the GCC Implement Nutrition Labeling at restaurants?

Recent legislation passed by some governments worldwide requires mandatory nutrition labeling at all restaurants. The perceived benefits of nutrition labeling at restaurants are that consumers will have the ability to decide meals and dishes with more consumer information, thus potentially allowing those consumers to consume healthier foods, and potentially reduce caloric intake. The result from this may potentially allow for a reduction in obesity levels with healthier food choices by consumers, thus potentially reducing the overall impact of health costs on the economy and a positive effect on productivity levels. This article will look at the policy and see the potential impacts towards final consumers, restaurants, and the economy as a whole, and the benefits and costs associated with nutrition labeling. Last we shall look if other GCC Nations should follow the footsteps of other nations in Mandatory nutrition labeling.

Looking Back at Bahrain 2017

Looking Back at Bahrain 2017

“Bahrain’s 2017 so far can be described as healthy growth, but with some concerns about how future international markets may counteract the strong growth which the Kingdom has seen. The data which we have varies from Quarter two or Quarter three. Our primary source is the Economic Development Board quarter three report on Bahrain’s economic growth (unless otherwise stated).”