Manama, Bahrain

Capital City

Manama's population of just 115,054 belies its outsize role as the financial capital of Bahrain. While the city has rapidly modernized, with a proliferation of financial institutions and flashy skyscrapers, the bureaucratic headaches are a persistent challenge. Extreme heat, with summer temperatures reaching up to 45°C, can make daily life a slog. And with half the population hailing from abroad, the cultural diversity is matched by an undercurrent of political instability - the city was rocked by anti-government protests in 2011. For the intrepid expat seeking a Middle Eastern financial hub, Manama may hold promise, but the climate and bureaucracy are not for the faint of heart.