Geography and history have played a prominent role in shaping the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as a major commercial centre.  Its location in the heart of the Arabian Gulf gives it strategic access to both the European and Asian markets, providing entrepreneurs with the ideal springboard for meeting a wider customer base.  Historically, too, Bahrain's location made it an important trading centre that attracted merchants in ancient times and, even today, continues to attract top-notch investors willing to capitalize on Bahrain's burgeoning investment potential.