Exploring Bahrain's Transportation Limitations And Future Prospects

Transport in Bahrain includes road, air, and sea travel. The country has a well-developed road network, with all major islands and towns connected by well-constructed roads. Private vehicles and taxis are the primary means of transportation in cities, while buses are the main form of public transport. Bahrain has four airports, one civil and three military, and three harbours in Manama, Mina Salman, and Sitrah. Shipping to and from Bahrain is possible, with various companies offering freight services for individuals and businesses.

Road transportation

Bahrain has a well-developed road network, with over 4,122 km (2,561 mi) of roadways as of 2010, of which 3,392 km (2,108 mi) are paved. The country has a history of investing in its road infrastructure, with roads being widened and resurfaced over the years to accommodate the increasing number of cars.

Private vehicles and taxis are the primary means of transportation in Bahraini cities. The country has a right-hand driving rule, and traffic is often regulated by roundabouts. Road signs are usually in both Arabic and English, and roads are generally well-maintained.

For those who wish to drive in Bahrain, an international driving license is required. Expats will need to convert their license from their home country to a local Bahraini driving license. This can be done by submitting the necessary documents, including their license, passport, and Bahrain ID card, to the General Directorate of Traffic. Applicants will also have to pass an optometry test and attend a theoretical lecture.

Public transport options in Bahrain are currently limited to bus services. The Bahrain Public Transport Company operates over 20 bus routes, linking the various governorates and providing a convenient and cost-effective means of transportation. Buses are well-equipped, with free WiFi and air conditioning, and bus terminals are also increasingly air-conditioned. However, the bus system can be complex to navigate, and route maps can be difficult to understand. To address this, a Bahrain Bus app is available to make navigating the bus system easier.

Taxis are also a common mode of transportation in Bahrain. They are widely available, especially in the main city centers and tourist attractions. Taxi drivers are required by law to use a meter, and fares can be paid via various methods, including cash or through apps.

For those looking to ship a car to Bahrain, there are a few things to keep in mind. The country permits the relatively easy import of vehicles, especially from the United States, with American vehicles being exempt from tariffs. However, Bahrain does not allow the importation of cars that are more than eight years old, and certain documentation is required for customs clearance. The average cost of shipping a car to Bahrain is around $2,500, and the process can take 4-6 weeks.

Air transportation

Airports in Bahrain

Bahrain International Airport, located in Muharraq, is the country's primary airport for civil aviation. It offers a range of passenger services, including lounges, hotels, dining options, and convenient parking facilities. The airport provides real-time flight tracking and has a dedicated call center for flight-related inquiries.

In addition to the main international airport, Bahrain also has three military air bases: Isa Air Base, Sakhir Air Base, and Riffa Air Base. These bases support military operations and may also facilitate specialized air transport requirements.

Air Traffic Control

Bahrain has a well-developed air traffic control system, with air traffic controllers ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in and around the country's airspace.

Airlines Operating in Bahrain

Several airlines operate in Bahrain, providing domestic and international flight services. Gulf Air, the country's flagship carrier, offers a premium travel experience with exclusive lounges and a range of onboard services. Other airlines, such as Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) and Saudi Arabian Airlines, also provide air transport to and from the country.

VAT on Air Transportation Services

According to Bahrain's VAT Law, the supply of local and international transportation services for passengers by air is zero-rated. This means that VAT is not applied to the cost of airfare for flights within Bahrain or for international flights originating or terminating in Bahrain. However, certain exclusions apply, such as sightseeing or leisure flights, which are subject to VAT.

Bahrain's air transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with modern airports, efficient air traffic control, and a selection of airlines offering domestic and international connectivity. The country's VAT regulations also make air travel relatively affordable for passengers, excluding certain leisure-focused services.

Shipping

Bahrain has four airports, one civil (Bahrain International Airport) and three military (Isa Air Base, Sakhir Air Base, and Riffa Air Base). The country also has three harbours in Manama, Mina Salman, and Sitrah. The port of Mina Salman can accommodate 16 ocean-going vessels drawing up to 11 metres.

Since 2014, Bahrain has promoted itself as an open register. As of 2020, there were 234 ships in Bahrain's merchant marine, of which 11 were general cargo ships, four were oil tankers, and 219 were other types of ships.

The major port in Bahrain is located in the capital city of Manama, a populous city and ideal spot to enter the country. This harbour offers Ro/Ro (roll-on/roll-off) facilities for auto shipping. With its advanced infrastructure and efficient customs processes, shipping a car to Bahrain through its main harbour is a hassle-free experience.

The average cost of shipping a car to Bahrain is around $2,500. The cheapest option available is RoRo shipping, where the vehicle is simply driven onto a ship and then off again at the destination. This form of transport includes rolling your equipment or vehicle onto the ship and is only suitable for operable vehicles.

The cost of shipping to Bahrain will depend on your shipping method and the size and weight of your package(s). You can send a package from the US to Bahrain from as little as $30.82 when you book online. Delivery times from the US to Bahrain can vary between 6-7 business days for a standard or express service, to 14-21 for an economy service. Generally, you'll pay less for services with longer delivery times.

Tudor International Freight provides cost-effective freight services when shipping to Bahrain from the UK. With over 30 years of experience transporting goods to destinations worldwide, your belongings are in safe hands.

FedEx and UPS also offer international shipping services to Bahrain.

Importing vehicles

Importing a vehicle into Bahrain is a common practice among expats. However, before deciding to import a vehicle, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons. For instance, if you don't plan on staying in Bahrain for an extended period, the hassle and expense of importing and then exporting a vehicle may not be worthwhile. It is also important to be aware of the local vehicle market prices, as you may find a similar car for a lower price.

If you choose to import your vehicle, there are specific procedures and requirements that must be followed. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:

Documentation Requirements:

To import a vehicle into Bahrain, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Import Customs Declaration Form (CDF)
• Traffic Technical Inspection (including a Clearance Certificate)
• Inspection License Plate from the Traffic Department at the Port:
• Export License Plate
• Vehicle details prepared by the Customs Port
• Vehicle insurance certificate
• Identification Card

Importation Procedures and Customs Laws:

When importing a vehicle, it is important to be aware of the following procedures and customs laws:

• Demurrage charges apply when the vehicle is kept within the Customs Points premises.
• Customs duty is calculated based on the invoice or the valuation price determined by Bahrain Customs.
• Only the owner or an authorised representative can collect the vehicle.
• U.S.-manufactured vehicles imported directly from the U.S. are exempt from customs duty.
• Vehicles may be exempt from customs duty if a genuine reconciliation is available, matching the invoice value or valuation price.
• An authorisation certificate is required from the General Directorate of Traffic when importing four-wheel tractors and two-wheel motorcycles.

Additional Considerations:

When importing a vehicle through the sea port or air cargo, you must include a delivery order, bill of lading, and a clearance certificate with the customs declaration. Additionally, the General Directorate of Traffic should be approached to obtain an authorisation certificate. Demurrage charges at the sea port are collected by the General Organization of Sea Ports.

It is worth noting that Bahrain has a well-developed road network, making it a popular place to own a car. The country's major port, located in the capital city of Manama, offers Ro/Ro (roll-on/roll-off) facilities for vehicle shipping. The transparent regulations and reliable shipping companies in Bahrain make it a convenient choice for individuals relocating or importing vehicles.

Shipping Options:

When deciding on the mode of transport for your vehicle, you can choose between Ro/Ro (roll-on/roll-off) and container shipping. Ro/Ro is the more economical option, where the vehicle is driven onto and off the ship. Container shipping offers additional protection and is recommended for antique or valuable vehicles.

Vehicle Requirements:

To ensure a smooth shipping process, your vehicle must meet certain requirements:

• Remove all personal belongings from the car.
• Thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the vehicle to avoid quarantine delays.
• Note any dents or scratches with the shipping representative and obtain a signed form attesting to the condition of the vehicle.
• Leave only a quarter tank of fuel in the car.

Costs and Timeframe:

The cost of shipping a car to Bahrain can vary. On average, it costs around $2,500, but prices can range from $3,500 to $7,000, depending on the size and type of vehicle and the shipping method chosen. The shipping process from the U.S. to Bahrain typically takes 4-6 weeks.

Restrictions:

It is important to note that Bahrain does not allow the importation of vehicles older than eight years, and certain paperwork is required for customs clearance.

Public transport

The Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) operates over 20 bus routes across the Kingdom of Bahrain, connecting the various governorates. Buses are well-equipped and provide a high level of safety, security, and customer service. The BPTC offers real-time bus tracking, daily schedule updates, and simplified route maps to help passengers plan their journeys.

The capital city, Manama, is connected to the island of Muharraq and Sitra Causeway by multiple causeways. The city's road network has been expanded over the years, with ring roads and highways constructed to accommodate the increasing number of cars.

While private vehicles and taxis are the primary means of transportation in Bahrain, the country has a well-developed road network and a public transport system. The BPTC provides a convenient and cost-effective way to commute, with buses running around the clock to shuttle passengers to their destinations.

Some of the popular bus routes in Bahrain include:

• Manama - Dragon City
• Manama - Saar, The Atrium
• Manama - East Riffa
• Manama - North Juffair
• Manama - Mina Salman - Manama

Frequently asked questions