Exploring Bahrain: Transit Possibilities And Procedures

If you're planning to transit through Bahrain, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, Bahrain's visa policy requires travellers with a connecting time of more than 8 hours to obtain a transit visa. This visa can be applied for through an airline, travel agency, or agent, and there may be a fee involved. Additionally, due to the threat of terrorism and the risk of civil unrest in the region, it is recommended to exercise a high degree of caution when transiting through Bahrain. It's also important to be aware of the conservative cultural and religious sensitivities in the country, such as avoiding public displays of affection and dressing modestly. Bahrain International Airport offers a seamless travel experience with its boutique design, making it easy for passengers to navigate.

Visa requirements for transiting through Bahrain

Bahrain is a popular tourist destination in the Gulf region. However, some travellers may simply prefer to transit through the country. In such cases, specific transit requirements must be met to ensure a smooth journey through Bahrain.

Bahrain Transit Visa

Bahrain's visa policy does not require travellers with a connecting time of fewer than 8 hours to obtain a Bahrain transit visa. However, these travellers will not be permitted to leave the airport. Conversely, travellers whose layover exceeds 8 hours will be required to obtain a Bahrain transit visa.

The Bahrain transit visa is non-extendable and can only be granted to foreigners who do not have a residence or occupation in Bahrain and whose sole purpose of visiting is for recreation, sightseeing, and casual visits to meet friends and relatives.

The transit visa can be applied for through the Gulf-based airline the applicant is travelling with, a travel agency, or an established agent via the visa section of the Bahrain Embassy in their country.

Transit Visa Fees

Travellers whose layover exceeds 7 hours but is less than 24 hours may qualify for a free transit visa. However, entry into the Kingdom of Bahrain is at the discretion of the Ministry of Interior upon arrival.

For those who do not qualify for a free transit visa, there are other options:

• Up to 24 hours before your flight, if the total cost of your ticket (including fare and carrier-imposed charges) is under USD 450 (one-way or return), you can reserve an STPC (Stopover Paid by Carrier) package. This costs USD 80 for adults and USD 55 for children aged 2 to 12. Infants under 2 years old stay for free.
• For passengers travelling between the Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East (or vice versa), if the total fare value (including ticket fare and carrier-imposed charges) is below USD 450, you will be eligible for up to two meal vouchers for layovers up to 12 hours. If you wish to secure an STPC package, you can do so at your own expense by booking at least 24 hours before departure.
• Within 24 hours before departure, at the departure airport, or upon arriving in Bahrain, if the total cost of your ticket (including fare and carrier-imposed charges) is less than USD 450 (one-way or return), you can reserve an STPC package. This package costs USD 100 for adults and USD 100 for children aged 2 to 12. Infants under 2 years old stay for free. Blue and Silver Falconflyer members holding redemption tickets can also purchase the STPC package at the mentioned rate.

Please note that admission into the Kingdom of Bahrain is subject to the discretion of the Ministry of Interior upon your arrival.

Passport Requirements

To enter Bahrain, your passport must have an expiry date of at least 6 months after your date of arrival. It is recommended to check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet the necessary requirements. If your passport does not meet the requirements, you will need to renew it before your trip.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or if you attempt to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Other Requirements

If you are a dual Bahraini/UK national, the authorities may require you to enter and exit Bahrain on a Bahrain travel document only.

If you are unsure how these requirements apply to you, it is recommended to contact the Bahrain Embassy in your country or Bahrain's Nationality, Passports and Residency Affairs (NPRA).

Transit process at Bahrain International Airport

Bahrain International Airport has a boutique design, allowing passengers to move between gates faster and giving them more time to enjoy the airport's amenities. Here is a step-by-step guide to transiting through Bahrain International Airport:

Follow the Signage

Upon arrival, follow the clearly marked orange transfer signs in the Arrivals Hall to locate the transfer counters. The airport staff are also available to provide assistance if needed.

Transfer Counters

There are 12 transfer desks on Level 01, with 6 on the West (counters 1-6) and 6 on the East (counters 11-16). At the transfer counters, passengers can process their documents and obtain their boarding passes. The transfer desks also assist with queries, re-booking flights, and other services.

Security Screening

After completing the transfer process, proceed to the departure hall at Level 2 for security screening. To facilitate the screening process, remove your belt, shoes, and possibly your jacket beforehand. Passengers with prescription medications or syringes must carry them in their original containers along with their prescriptions.

Airport Facilities

Once you have completed the security screening, you can explore the airport's facilities. The airport offers a variety of shopping and dining options. For those seeking relaxation, there are luxurious lounges and a hotel within the airport. The Entertainment Zone features interactive toys, gaming consoles, climbing domes, and comfortable seating, providing entertainment for all ages. Smoking rooms and prayer rooms are located opposite gates 14 and 19.

Boarding

Remember to regularly check the flight information screens and leave ample time to reach your gate. Boarding gates close 20 minutes before the scheduled flight departure.

Transit Visa Requirements

It is important to note that Bahrain's visa policy requires travellers with a layover exceeding 8 hours to obtain a transit visa. This visa can be applied for through the airline, a travel agency, or an agent via the visa section of the Bahrain Embassy. Travellers with a layover between 7 and 24 hours may qualify for a free transit visa.

Local laws and customs in Bahrain

Bahrain is a liberal country compared to others in the region, but many Bahrainis hold conservative social views. Here are some local laws and customs you should be aware of when visiting Bahrain:

Respect for Religion

Islamic religious values are greatly respected in Bahrain. Showing any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and very likely to result in heavy fines and/or imprisonment. Other religions are also respected in Bahrain and can be followed with freedom.

Muslims pray five times a day. You may notice that mosques call people to pray through a speaker system. If drivers are not close to a mosque, they may stop at a convenient lay-by to pray privately.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Throughout this month, eating, drinking, smoking, playing loud music, and dancing in public places during daylight hours are strictly forbidden and punishable by law, even for non-Muslims.

Dress Code

Bahrainis often dress conservatively in traditional clothing and can be offended when people dress inappropriately or not in accordance with Islamic values. In public places such as shopping malls, restaurants, and parks, it is recommended to dress modestly. Clothing should not be transparent, indecently expose parts of the body, or display offensive pictures or slogans. Any form of nudity is strictly forbidden, including topless sunbathing. These rules are even more closely observed during Ramadan when modesty is promoted.

Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol is legal in Bahrain and can be purchased at bars, licensed restaurants, and off-licences. However, drunken behaviour in public or driving under the influence of alcohol is against the law and can result in fines, imprisonment, deportation, and the withdrawal of driving licences. Physical assault and damaging public property while under the influence of alcohol is also an offence and may lead to a prison sentence.

Illegal drugs are strictly forbidden, even in residual amounts. Consuming or carrying illegal drugs, even when transiting through the airport, can result in imprisonment and deportation. Buying or selling illegal drugs and narcotics is considered a serious crime and can result in life imprisonment.

Social Behaviour

Bahrain has a zero-tolerance policy towards offensive language, spitting, and aggressive behaviour (including 'road rage' hand gestures). Such behaviour is viewed as seriously offensive and can result in imprisonment and deportation.

Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are generally not tolerated and may offend local people. Homosexuality is considered an offence in Bahrain, and there are some reported cases of individuals being punished for same-sex activity.

Photography

Photography is an area where cultural sensitivities come into play. In particular, people, especially women, do not like to be photographed. It is best to ask before taking photos, as there have been reports of locals becoming angry with visitors who try to take photographs without permission. Additionally, photographing sensitive buildings, such as military installations, is forbidden in Bahrain.

Entry and exit conditions for Bahrain

Passports and Visas

To enter Bahrain, your passport must have an expiry date of at least six months after the date you arrive. If you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen, you will be denied entry.

You must have a visa to visit Bahrain. Visas are automatically issued for a 2-week period, but visit visas for stays of up to 6 months are also available. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply. You can apply for a visa in advance from the Bahrain Embassy in the UK, through a Gulf-based airline, a travel agency, or an established agent via the visa section of the Bahrain Embassy in your country.

If you are a dual Bahraini/UK national, the authorities may require you to enter and exit Bahrain on a Bahrain travel document only.

Transit Visas

Bahrain's visa policy does not require travellers whose connecting time is fewer than 8 hours to obtain a Bahrain transit visa. However, these travellers will not be allowed to leave the airport. Travellers whose layover exceeds 8 hours will be required to obtain a Bahrain transit visa. The Bahrain transit visa is non-extendable and can only be granted to foreigners who are not residents or occupants in Bahrain and whose sole purpose of visiting is for recreation, sightseeing, and casual visits to friends and relatives.

Travellers with a layover of more than 7 hours but less than 24 hours at Bahrain International Airport may qualify for a free transit visa. However, please note that entry into Bahrain is at the sole discretion of the Ministry of Interior upon your arrival.

Other Entry Requirements

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Bahrain. However, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Bahrain. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Bahrain has rules about the amount of currency you can bring in and take out – check with your nearest Bahraini Embassy or Bahrain Customs before your departure.

Local Laws and Customs

Bahrain has the death penalty for murder and drug offences, and corporal punishment for some offences such as stealing. Behaviour that is offensive but not criminal in other countries can be illegal in Bahrain. This includes swearing, making rude gestures, and speaking against government policy, even on social media.

Dress modestly – cover your shoulders and knees. Same-sex relations are not prohibited but are not socially accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

The legal age of maturity in Bahrain is 21. A child of a Bahraini father does not need his permission to leave Bahrain unless there is a travel ban imposed on the child in connection with custody proceedings.

Safety and security considerations in Bahrain

There are several safety and security considerations to keep in mind when transiting through Bahrain. Here are some key points to be aware of:

• Terrorism: There is a high threat of terrorist attacks in Bahrain, including in places frequented by foreigners such as tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in public places.
• Civil Unrest and Protests: Civil unrest and protests are common in Bahrain and can occur with little warning. Avoid all demonstrations and protests, as they may turn violent. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Crime: Overall, the level of crime in Bahrain is low, but pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur, especially in old market areas (souks). Take normal precautions to protect your belongings, and be vigilant about your surroundings.
• Scams and Cyber Threats: Be cautious when using dating apps or online dating websites, as scammers target foreign nationals. Also, be aware of potential cyber-based threats, such as digital identity theft and the compromise of personal data when connecting to Wi-Fi or using shared computers.
• Local Laws and Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions. Dress conservatively, especially in religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection. Be mindful of the month of Ramadan and Shia religious festivals, during which modesty and conservative behaviour are emphasised.
• Alcohol and Drug Laws: Alcohol is legal in Bahrain, but drunken behaviour in public is against the law and can result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation. Illegal drugs are strictly prohibited, and even residual amounts can lead to severe penalties, including prison sentences.
• LGBTQ+ Travellers: While same-sex relations between consenting adults over 21 are not prohibited by law, they are not socially accepted. Public displays of affection can cause offence and are illegal.
• Transportation: When using taxis, only use reputable companies. If you plan to drive, be aware of unsafe driving practices such as speeding and the use of mobile phones while driving. Always carry your driver's licence and vehicle registration documents.
• Health and Medical Care: The standard of medical care in Bahrain is generally high, but you may have to pay upfront for treatment, and costs can be high. Ensure your travel insurance covers all medical expenses.
• Natural Disasters: Bahrain experiences extremely high temperatures, sandstorms, and dust storms. Monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities during natural disasters.

Frequently asked questions