King of Bahrain | |
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ملك البحرين Malik al-Baḥrayn |
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Incumbent | |
Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa since 6 March 1999 as Emir since 14 February 2002 as King |
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Details | |
Style | His Majesty |
Heir apparent | Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa |
First monarch |
Ahmed bin Muhammad bin Khalifa (Hakim) Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah (King) |
Formation | 1783 (Hakimmiyah) 16 August 1971 (Emirate) 14 February 2002 (Kingdom) |
Residence | Riffa Palace |
The King of Bahrain (Arabic: ملك البحرين) is the monarch and head of state of Bahrain. Between 1783 and 1971, the Bahraini monarch held the title of Hakim, and, from 1971 until 2002, the title of Emir. On 14 February 2002, the then-Emir of Bahrain, Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifa, declared Bahrain a kingdom and proclaimed himself the first king.
The Arabic title of the Hakim, as transliterated, was Hakim al-Bahrayn (English: Caretaker of Bahrain). The Hakim also held the honorific title of sheikh.
The Arabic title of the Emir, as transliterated, was Amir dawlat al-Bahrayn (English: Chief of the State of Bahrain). The Emir also held the honorific title of sheikh.
The Arabic title of the King, as transliterated, is Malik al-Bahrayn (English: King of Bahrain). The King also holds the honorific title of sheikh.