Switzerland recognized the emirate of Bahrain in 1971 and established diplomatic relations with it in 1973. Contacts are friendly and positive, but not especially intensive.

In 1986 the two countries concluded an agreement on air travel. This was followed in 2004 by an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation in air and sea transport.
Swiss interests in Bahrain are safeguarded by the embassy in Kuwait. A Consulate General has been opened in Manama (Bahrain). Conversely, Bahrain’s ambassador in Paris is also accredited to Switzerland. The Swiss colony in Bahrain is currently about one hundred strong.