Foreign nationals planning a trip to Bahrain should carefully consider visa regulations and current health protocols to ensure a smooth entry process.
Visa Requirements
GCC Nationals: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries - Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates - are exempt from visa requirements for entry into Bahrain.
Other Nationalities: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Bahrain. The specific method of obtaining a visa depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Here are the primary options:
Important Note: Visa requirements can change, so it's imperative to verify the latest information with the Bahraini government or embassy in your home country well before your departure date.
Health Considerations:
Here are some travel advice and safety tips to consider when visiting Bahrain:
Respect local customs
Bahrain is a Muslim-majority country. Dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing or anything with offensive slogans or images.
Be mindful during demonstrations
Protests can occur occasionally. Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations altogether. Stay informed about current events and follow guidance from local authorities.
Petty Theft
While overall crime is low, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas like souqs. Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Dress conservatively
When in public, dress modestly. Women should wear attire that covers the shoulders and knees. In more conservative areas and during religious observations, it may be advisable to dress more conservatively.
Alcohol
Alcohol is legal for non-Muslims to purchase and consume in Bahrain. However, there are specific restrictions. You can only buy alcohol from licensed liquor stores, not supermarkets or convenience stores.
The drinking age can vary depending on the establishment. Some places adhere to an 18+ rule, while others might have a 21+ policy. Always check the age requirement before entering.
Note that public intoxication and drinking in public places are strictly prohibited. This includes parks, beaches, and streets. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, or even deportation.
The currency in Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar, abbreviated as BHD. The symbol for the Bahraini Dinar is .د.ب in Arabic or BD in English. One Bahraini Dinar is subdivided into 1000 fils. The banknotes available are in denominations of 1/2, 1, 5, 10, and 20 dinars, while the coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 fils.
The Bahraini Dinar is one of the highest-valued currency units in the world, with an exchange rate that is relatively stable and often pegged to the US Dollar at approximately 1 BHD to 2.65 USD. The Central Bank of Bahrain is the authority responsible for issuing the currency and managing the country's monetary policy.
We recommend having cash with you as credit/debit cards are not accepted everywhere in Bahrain. However, within the F1 circuit, you should be able to pay by card.
The standard plug and socket type in Bahrain is G. This means it has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The standard voltage in Bahrain is 230 volts (V) with a frequency of 50 Hertz (Hz).
In Bahrain, the key providers of mobile services are Batelco, Zain Bahrain, and STC Bahrain. These companies are the major players in the telecommunications sector, offering a diverse range of mobile, internet, and digital services to both consumers and businesses across the nation.
Batelco
Batelco, or Bahrain Telecommunications Company, is the oldest and one of the largest telecom providers in Bahrain. Founded in 1981, Batelco delivers a wide array of services, including mobile, broadband, fixed-line, and enterprise solutions. They are renowned for their extensive network coverage, high-speed internet, and innovative communication offerings, serving both individual and corporate clients.
Zain Bahrain
Zain Bahrain, a subsidiary of the Zain Group, is a leading mobile telecommunications provider in the Middle East and Africa. Since launching in Bahrain in 2003, Zain has become a significant player in the market. Known for its competitive mobile packages, advanced 4G and 5G services, and customer-focused approach, Zain Bahrain offers a variety of services from mobile voice and data to broadband internet and business solutions.
STC Bahrain
STC Bahrain, formerly known as VIVA Bahrain, is part of the Saudi Telecom Company (STC) group. Entering the Bahraini market in 2010, STC Bahrain has quickly grown its services and customer base. The company provides a broad range of telecommunications services, including mobile plans, high-speed internet, and digital solutions tailored for both personal and business use. STC Bahrain is recognized for its competitive pricing, extensive network, and dedication to innovation.
However, if you're not local and need mobile data, we recommend apps like Airalo (more details here).
There are several important phone numbers in Bahrain that residents and visitors should know for emergencies and basic services. Here are some of the most important ones:
Emergency services
Police, Fire Department, Ambulance: 999
National Emergency Call Center: 999
Fire Emergencies: 997
Emergency Casualty Bureau: 990
Emergency Criminal Investigations Department (CID): 992
Emergency Coast Guard: 994
Traffic Police: 199
International Emergency Number: 112
There are several interesting facts about Bahrain, here are some of them:
Rich history
Bahrain, an island nation in the Persian Gulf, boasts a rich history that spans thousands of years. It is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the region, the Dilmun civilization, which dates back to around 3000 BC. This ancient civilization made Bahrain a significant trading hub, connecting Mesopotamia to the Indus Valley.
Geography
The country is known for its unique geographical features, consisting of 33 islands. Bahrain Island is the largest, and it’s connected to Saudi Arabia by the 25-kilometre King Fahd Causeway, a remarkable engineering feat that enhances economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
Economy
Bahrain was one of the first countries in the Gulf to discover oil in 1932, which significantly transformed its economy and led to rapid modernization. However, in recent years, Bahrain has been diversifying its economy by investing heavily in banking and finance, tourism, and other non-oil sectors.
Manama
The capital city, Manama, is a vibrant cultural and economic centre, home to a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets, such as the Manama Souq. The city is also known for the Bahrain World Trade Center, an iconic building with integrated wind turbines, showcasing the country's commitment to sustainable development.
Cultural heritage
The country has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, including the Bahrain Fort, also known as Qal'at al-Bahrain, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archaeological site provides insights into the island's ancient history and its role as a major trading port.
Pearl diving
Bahrain is also famous for its pearl diving tradition, once a major industry before the discovery of oil. The waters around Bahrain were known for producing some of the finest pearls in the world, and this heritage is still celebrated today.
Social climate
The country enjoys a relatively liberal social climate compared to some of its neighbours, with a diverse population comprising Bahrainis, expatriates, and a mix of cultures and religions. This multicultural environment contributes to Bahrain's reputation as a welcoming and tolerant nation.
Education
Education is highly valued in Bahrain, with the country boasting a high literacy rate and numerous institutions of higher learning. The University of Bahrain, for example, offers a wide range of programs and has partnerships with international universities.
Cuisine
Bahrain's cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, blending traditional Arabian dishes with Persian, Indian, and Western flavours. Popular dishes include machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or fish, and muhammar, a sweet rice dish often served with dates.
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