Bahrain Sets Guinness World Record for Highest Density of Houses of Worship

Bahrain has achieved a landmark global distinction after being officially recognised by Guinness World Records for having the highest density of houses of worship in any country, a milestone that powerfully reflects the Kingdom’s deeply rooted culture of tolerance and coexistence. The announcement was made on January 28, 2026, during a special event at the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance in Manama.

According to the record certification, Bahrain registered an exceptional 2.577 houses of worship per square kilometre, comfortably exceeding the minimum threshold of 2.300 required for the category. Across the Kingdom, there are 2,123 verified places of worship, including mosques, churches and temples, serving a population of approximately 1.58 million people. The figures highlight not only the accessibility of religious spaces, but also the diversity of faiths that peacefully coexist within the country.

The record was unveiled as part of celebrations marking the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence, a newly established UN-recognised observance initiated by Bahrain and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. The timing underscored the Kingdom’s proactive role in promoting interfaith dialogue, mutual respect and global unity on the international stage.

Officials and attendees described the recognition as a testament to Bahrain’s long-standing commitment to religious freedom and social harmony. Beyond the numbers, the achievement reinforces Bahrain’s position as a global model for peaceful coexistence, demonstrating how diversity and inclusivity can serve as foundations for stability, understanding and shared human values.