The Duke of York, whose trip begins on Tuesday, has infuriated human rights activists who have insisted the majority of the country’s population suffering repression under the authoritarian regime of King Hamad will not welcome the royal visit.

The King’s government, dominated by members of Bahrain’s royal family, has been accused of a string of human rights abuses since pro-democracy protesters were violently suppressed during the Arab Spring of 2011.

Andrew, 53, was asked by the British Government to travel to Bahrain to help boost trade during events held under the GREAT British week promoting UK business and culture. It is the culmination of a series of events marking the bicentenary of bilateral relations between the UK and Bahrain, once a British protectorate.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “Following a request from Her Majesty’s Government, the Duke of York will this week travel to Bahrain.

“The official visit coincides with GREAT British Week in Bahrain, which will highlight the bilateral relationship between the United Kingdom and Bahrain.

“His Royal Highness’s programme of engagements reflects a number of the Duke’s core priorities, including education, young people and skills, and entrepreneurship.”