Exploring Bahrain And Qatar By Road: Can Americans Drive?

Americans can drive between Bahrain and Qatar, but it is not a direct route. The journey is approximately 455km and takes around 5 hours and 25 minutes, crossing through Saudi Arabia. This option provides a scenic route and the flexibility to enjoy Gulf landscapes along the way. However, it is important to note that there are visa requirements and other necessary documents to enter Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Additionally, driving standards in the region may be lower than what Americans are used to, with more aggressive and faster drivers, and it is common to encounter camels and goats on the road.

Driving route from Bahrain to Qatar

Driving from Bahrain to Qatar is possible, but there is no direct route. The total driving distance is around 284 miles, and the journey will take you through Saudi Arabia. Here is a detailed guide on the driving route from Bahrain to Qatar:

Exit Bahrain and Enter Saudi Arabia:

To exit Bahrain and enter Saudi Arabia, you will need to cross the Abu Samra border. Here is a step-by-step guide for this part of the journey:

• Approach the first booth, which is Qatar's immigration, and provide your personal documents for validation.
• After crossing the Abu Samra border, you will see the Qatar immigration office on your left, where your photo will be taken.
• Drive until you enter Saudi Arabia through the main entry point.
• Continue driving straight until you see the Saudi Immigration/Passport Control booth on your right. Your documents will be checked and validated again.
• Park your car and enter the building named 'Passports' to complete the biometrics procedure (fingerprints and eye scan) and have your photo taken.
• Note that there are separate buildings and queues for men and women.
• Once your biometrics procedure is completed, your personal documents will be validated, and your visa documents will be checked.
• Proceed to the next stop, a short drive away, where your vehicle documents will be checked and validated. You can purchase vehicle insurance at this point if you haven't already.
• Hold on to your vehicle insurance receipt, as you will need to show it when returning to Qatar.
• Payments at the Abu Samra border can be made using Qatari credit/debit cards or in Qatari Riyals.

Driving Through Saudi Arabia:

Once you have entered Saudi Arabia, continue your journey towards Al Khobar. This is the city you will pass through on your way to the King Fahd Causeway.

Entering Bahrain from Saudi Arabia:

After driving through Saudi Arabia, you will reach the King Fahd Causeway, a 25-kilometer bridge connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Here is what you need to know about this part of the journey:

• Approach the toll gate to enter the King Fahd Causeway and make the required payment.
• Note that payments can only be made by tapping your credit or debit card; cash payments are not accepted.
• If you plan to make frequent trips, consider getting the rechargeable King Fahd Causeway toll card.
• After driving halfway across the causeway, you will reach the exit point of Saudi Arabia.
• Continue driving until you reach the Bahrain entry point, also known as 'Passport Island'.
• At the Bahrain immigration office, provide your personal documents, such as your passport copy, GCC residency (Qatar ID), and visa documents.
• If you need to make any payments, note that Qatari Riyals are not accepted. You can pay by card or drive to another building on the left to pay in cash.
• If this is your first entry to Bahrain, you will need to undergo the biometrics procedure. If you have entered Bahrain before, even by air, you will not need to do this again.
• After your documents are validated, your passport will be stamped, and you will proceed to the next stop.
• The next stop will be a vehicle security check, where you will need to get out of your car for a physical examination.
• Once this is completed, proceed to the final stop, where you will provide your vehicle insurance documents.
• After this, you will officially enter Bahrain.

Returning from Bahrain to Qatar via Saudi Arabia:

When leaving Bahrain, you will first approach the toll gate from the Bahrain side and make the necessary payment to access the King Fahd Causeway.

• After driving for a while, you will reach the middle of the bridge, where there will be a Bahrain immigration/customs office. At this point, only your personal documents will be checked and validated.
• After crossing the Bahrain customs/immigration, stop for a vehicle check by the Bahrain authorities.
• Exit Bahrain and continue driving towards the Saudi Arabia border.
• After crossing the Saudi border, you will be stopped for another vehicle check. Park your car in the dedicated area, open your trunk, and wait for an officer to examine your car.
• Once the vehicle examination is completed, continue your journey towards the Abu Samra border to enter Qatar.

Additional Tips:

• The total journey time from Qatar to Bahrain via Saudi Arabia can take approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and immigration procedures.
• There is a Woqod petrol station located approximately 1 kilometer before the Abu Samra border. This is the last fuel station before entering Saudi Arabia.
• You can find eateries and prayer rooms at the Woqod petrol station.
• You can find petrol stations approximately 15 kilometers after crossing the Abu Samra border and entering Saudi Arabia.
• There are also many petrol stations close to the entry and exit points of Bahrain.

Travel time and costs

The travel time and costs for Americans driving between Bahrain and Qatar depend on several factors, including mode of transportation, border crossings, and travel documents. Let's break down the key considerations:

Driving

The driving distance between Bahrain and Qatar is approximately 284 miles (455 km), and the journey typically takes around 5 hours and 25 minutes to 5 hours and 45 minutes. This option offers a scenic route, allowing travellers to enjoy the Gulf landscapes. The route involves crossing through Saudi Arabia, which means additional visa requirements and border procedures.

#### Driving Costs

The cost of driving between Bahrain and Qatar is relatively affordable. The estimated cost for fuel for this trip is $23-$35. Additionally, there may be costs associated with renting a car, which can be a convenient option for those seeking flexibility and customisation in their itinerary.

#### Driving Time

The driving time can vary depending on traffic and border crossings. The journey is estimated to take between 5 hours and 25 minutes to 7 hours, depending on these factors. It's important to factor in potential delays at border crossings, especially when entering Saudi Arabia from Qatar at the Abu Samra border.

#### Driving Route

The recommended route to drive from Bahrain to Qatar is through Saudi Arabia, using the King Fahd Causeway, a 25-km bridge connecting the two countries. This route is well-established and offers a safer alternative to other routes that may be under construction or lack proper infrastructure.

Flying

Flying is another option for Americans travelling between Bahrain and Qatar. However, there are currently no direct flights between the two countries. Flights with one or two stopovers are available, and the total travel time, including stopovers, can range from 3 to 8 hours, depending on the route and layover duration.

#### Flight Costs

The cost of flying between Bahrain and Qatar varies depending on the route and airline. The cheapest option is typically around $160-$230 for a one-way ticket. It's important to factor in potential costs for checked baggage, airport transfers, and other related expenses.

#### Flight Time

While flying may seem like the quickest option, the total travel time, including stopovers, can be comparable to driving. The flight time itself is approximately 55 minutes, but the overall travel time, including airport procedures and potential delays, should be considered.

Other Transportation Options

There are also other transportation options to consider, such as bus services or potential sea routes. Bus travel between Bahrain and Qatar takes approximately 12 hours and costs $55-$150. Although it is a longer journey, it can be a more economical option for those on a budget.

Additionally, there are plans to launch a Qatar ferry line in the future, providing a convenient travel option with an estimated travel time of around 90 minutes.

Border crossings and visas

To drive from Bahrain to Qatar, you will need to cross the border into Saudi Arabia and then enter Qatar. This means you will need to have the correct visas for both Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Firstly, you will need to cross the Abu Samra border from Qatar into Saudi Arabia. You can apply for a visa to Saudi Arabia from Qatar online via Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, or through the Tasheer visa centre located at Ezdan Mall, Gharaffa. The e-visa costs QR 290.59 (SAR 300) excluding medical insurance, which is mandatory to enter Saudi Arabia. The price of medical insurance starts at QR 36.50 ($10) but may vary depending on the insurance company.

Once you have entered Saudi Arabia, you will need to continue your journey and drive via Al Khobar to reach the King Fahd Causeway, a 25km bridge that connects Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. To enter Bahrain, you will need to provide your passport, GCC residency (Qatar ID), and visa documents. You can purchase a visa upon arrival at the Bahrain immigration office at the border, or apply for an e-visa online using the national e-visa portal. The e-visa costs a total of QR 87 (BD 9) for two weeks, including an application fee of QR 38.63 (BD 4) and a visa fee of QR 48.28 (BD 5).

It is important to note that there may be long waits at border crossings, and you will need to have your vehicle insurance documents ready for inspection. Vehicle insurance is mandatory for both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and you will need to purchase separate insurance for each country.

In addition to the visas and insurance, make sure to carry your passport, driver's license, and other relevant documentation with you when crossing the border.

Driving in Qatar

If you're an American driving in Qatar, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, Qatar has a well-developed road infrastructure, including modern highways and well-maintained roads. However, construction and road maintenance are common, so be prepared for diversions or road closures. It's also important to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and regulations to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.

In Qatar, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and overtaking is done on the left. The speed limits vary depending on the road type, with highways ranging from 100 to 120 km/h and urban areas usually set at 60 km/h. It is mandatory to wear a seatbelt, and children must be restrained using appropriate safety seats or belts. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free system.

When it comes to right of way, vehicles already in a roundabout have priority. At intersections with traffic lights or stop signs, obey the signals and yield to vehicles with the right of way. Pedestrians always have the right of way at designated crossings, so be cautious and yield to them.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited, with a zero-tolerance policy in place. If you're found to be driving under the influence, you can face legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and license suspension or revocation.

Parking rules vary depending on the location and regulations set by local authorities. In many commercial areas, shopping malls, and busy streets, paid parking zones are implemented using parking meters or ticket machines. In residential areas, there may be designated resident-only parking spaces, so visitors should be mindful of restrictions.

Regarding licenses, if you're an American visitor to Qatar, you can drive with your US license for up to 14 days, as long as it's recognized by the Qatari authorities. To drive for a longer period, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your US license, which is valid for up to six months. After that, you'll need to obtain a Qatari driver's license. The process involves submitting the required documents, which may include your passport, residence permit, ID card, original driving license, proof of residence, and passport-sized photographs. You may also need to take a written test and a practical driving test.

Overall, when driving in Qatar, it's important to obey the rules of the road and remain vigilant. Road accidents and fatality rates are high, so always drive defensively, wear your seatbelt, and avoid using your phone.

Driving in Saudi Arabia

Driving conditions in Saudi Arabia

Conditions in Saudi Arabia may be quite different from those in the US. The Kingdom's drivers have a reputation for fast and aggressive driving. Saudi highways can be intimidating, with tailgating and high-speed undertaking (including on the emergency lane) being common. A road diversion may lead you into the desert. There are also natural hazards to be aware of, including blinding sandstorms, flash floods, camels wandering unlit roads at night, and extreme heat.

Car designs and street signs

Cars in Saudi Arabia are left-hand drive with automatic transmission. Road layouts will be familiar to those used to driving on the left, and there are plenty of roundabouts. Turning right at a red light is permitted unless signs specifically forbid it. Street signage in cities is generally clear and bilingual (Arabic and English). However, only the main city streets are known by their official names, so a sat nav is invaluable.

Who can drive in Saudi Arabia?

You must be at least 18 years old to drive in the Kingdom. Driving licenses issued in the US are valid for three months. After that, you will need to convert your license to a Saudi one. Women became eligible to drive in Saudi Arabia for the first time in 2018.

Getting a Saudi driving license

If you don't already hold a license, or you hold a license from a country that cannot be converted to a Saudi license, you will need to take a test. First, pay the SR400 license fee at a bank (keep the receipt). Then take four passport-sized photos and the original iqama (residence permit) to your nearest driving school. You will need to complete an application form in Arabic, take an eye test, and submit a medical report indicating your blood group. A three-hour tuition class and computer test follow. If you pass, you then take a simple driving test. If you pass that, a 10-year license will be issued on the spot.

Driving costs in Saudi Arabia

Some of the main costs to consider when driving in Saudi Arabia include an annual vehicle inspection (the fahas certificate), maintenance, insurance, fuel, and tolls. The inspection fee is SR73, and maintenance is recommended every 5,000 kilometers or three months. Third-party vehicle coverage is mandatory, and fully comprehensive insurance for a Toyota Camry is around SR1600 per year. A liter of 95-octane fuel is set by the government at $0.55. Tolls are rare, except for the causeway linking the Eastern Province to Bahrain, which costs SR25 one way.

Driving rules and penalties in Saudi Arabia

Although many drivers appear to ignore them, there are road rules in Saudi Arabia. Failure to abide by them could mean a fine, points on your license, or a driving ban. Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers, and a child under 10 must be in a car seat. The speed limit ranges from 50km/h in built-up areas to 120km/h on national highways. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 25km/h will result in a minimum SR900 fine and six points on your license.

Saudi Arabia has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with penalties ranging from SR5000 to SR10,000, as well as points and possibly a lengthy jail term and deportation. It is also illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, which carries a fine of between SR500 and SR900 and two points on your license.

Road signs and traffic information in Saudi Arabia

Road signs are usually bilingual (Arabic and English), although those in rural areas may be in Arabic only. Saudi Arabia is a large but sparsely populated country, so traffic is generally light outside of cities. Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Eastern Province conurbation of Dammam/Al Khobar/Dhahran are notoriously bad for congestion. Google Maps and the local Waze app are popular sources of traffic information.

Parking in Saudi Arabia

You are likely to have to search for and pay for parking in cities, although free parking can usually be found with some patience. Paid car parks are found in all main cities, along with some metered street parking. Parking is cheap by global standards, with one hour costing around SR10 downtown.

Road accidents and breakdowns

Road accidents are a fact of daily life in Saudi Arabia. If you are involved in an accident, first call the police on 933, then your sponsor, who may be able to assist with speaking to the police, and possibly your embassy. Do not accept any responsibility for the accident, as the police will prepare a report apportioning blame. If you are found to be at fault, you may be held in custody until you have paid reparations.

If your car breaks down, pull off the road, put your hazard lights on, and use a warning triangle if you have one. Call a breakdown recovery service or the police, and seek shade and drink plenty of water while you wait for assistance.

Frequently asked questions