A sheikdom is a type of monarchy in which the ruler is a sheik, or an Arab leader. Bahrain is an example of a sheikdom, located in the Middle East on the Persian Gulf. It is a small island nation with a population of over 1.5 million people. Bahrain is known for its oil and gas reserves, as well as its banking and financial services. It is also home to many historical sites, including the ancient Dilmun civilization.