Bahrain has a population of roughly 1.5 million, but only about half are Bahraini citizens. The rest are expatriate workers, predominantly from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and other Arab countries. This makes for a remarkably diverse society packed into a very small space.
Bahraini society is predominantly Muslim, split between Shia and Sunni communities. The Shia form the majority of the native population, while the ruling Al Khalifa family and much of the political establishment are Sunni. This sectarian divide has been a source of political tension, particularly during the 2011 protests, but it rarely affects visitors directly.
Arabic is the official language, spoken in the Bahraini Gulf dialect. English is widely used in business, education, and daily life -- you will find that most Bahrainis speak it fluently. Hindi, Urdu, and Tagalog are common among the expat community.
Bahrainis are known for their hospitality. If you are invited to someone's home, expect to be offered Arabic coffee and dates as a welcome. The pearl diving heritage remains a strong part of national identity, even though the industry itself largely disappeared after the introduction of cultured pearls in the 1930s. Traditional music (sawt and fidjeri, the songs of pearl divers) and crafts (pottery, weaving) are still celebrated, particularly at cultural festivals.
Compared to its Gulf neighbors, Bahrain has a more relaxed social atmosphere. Women drive, work, and participate in public life. The country has a long history as a trading hub, and that cosmopolitan character is still evident in how people interact.