In an exclusive, engaging conversation with His Majesty’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Alastair Long, we delve into the dynamic relationship between the UK and Bahrain, exploring key areas of collaboration, navigating current challenges, and looking toward a future of shared prosperity. Ambassador Long, with his extensive experience and insightful perspective, offers valuable insights into the political, economic, and social dimensions of this crucial partnership.
Your Excellency, we recently implemented an electronic travel authorisation system, simplifying travel between our nations. How do you see its impact?
His Majesty’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Alastair Long: It’s a significant development for both countries. I hope it increases trade and business opportunities. Bahrainis already visit the UK in large numbers, but this makes it easier, potentially encouraging them to spend more time there.
Looking back at your diverse postings in Africa and the Middle East, from Egypt to Oman and UAE, what are some of your most cherished memories, unique cultural experiences or encounters that stand out the most?
Everywhere I’ve served, I’ve had wonderful experiences. From drifting down the Nile to the mountains of Oman, the scenery has been breathtaking. But truly, it’s the people who have coloured my imagination. They’re so hospitable and charming, reminding me that people everywhere are eager to connect.
How does Bahrain compare to your previous postings?
I’ve never felt more welcome than in Bahrain. Perhaps it’s something about islands, both the UK and Bahrain. We’re outward-looking, engaging, and enterprising. With Bahrainis, I feel a familiarity, an understanding, a shared sense of purpose. That excites me.
Your Instagram shows your love for sports (or shall I say Manchester United) to cricket to golf to horse racing, which is closest to your heart?
Oh well, you know, I’m getting a bit old now, but I used to play quite a bit of football and cricket. I absolutely love football. I’m a big Manchester United fan, as you can see from my Instagram, and was incredibly honoured to have met Sir Alex Ferguson. But I love cricket, too. Really passionate about it. I love those summer afternoons in the UK standing in the field watching the cricket balls spin around. But we Brits, we just love sport, we love tennis, golf, darts, you name it. And I just think sport has a wonderful way of uniting people.
Formula One is huge in Bahrain, who do you support? And what do you think of Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari in 2025?
F1 is huge in the UK, with many teams based there. It contributes greatly to our economy and culture. I’m a Lando Norris and McLaren fan, not just because I’m here in Bahrain, but also because he’s British and we’re rooting for him.
Lewis Hamilton is a legend, I mean, to win that many world championships and I know he’s gunning for the eighth. The move to Ferrari has got us all talking, hasn’t it? What the reasons for that might be? But you know, wherever he is with Mercedes this season and Ferrari next, we wish him success and I really hope he does get that eighth championship.
With a packed schedule as a diplomat, how do you maintain a work-life balance? And what do you like doing in those precious moments?
As a father and diplomat, I try to spend as much time with my family as possible. The most precious thing is talking to them, being with them, and creating experiences together, whether it’s exploring Bahrain, doing sports, or simply being outdoors.
