A Walk To Bahrain Airport: Is It Possible?

Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is located in Muharraq, adjacent to the capital Manama. The airport is well-equipped and offers a range of facilities to make your layover comfortable and enjoyable. While the airport itself provides many amenities, the captivating culture and historical sites of Bahrain are just beyond the terminal buildings.

If you're considering walking to the airport, it's important to note that the area surrounding the airport is prone to protests, demonstrations, and security risks. Therefore, it's recommended to exercise caution and follow the instructions of local authorities when travelling in this region.

To make the most of your time at BAH, you can explore duty-free shopping, indulge in global cuisine, relax in airport spas, or even take a short tour of Manama, Bahrain's vibrant capital city.

Where is Bahrain Airport?

Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is located in Muharraq, adjacent to the capital Manama. It is one of the oldest airports in the Gulf region, with a history that dates back to 1937. The airport has undergone significant modernisation projects and now boasts a dual terminal complex. Terminal 1 caters to domestic and regional flights, while Terminal 2 handles international traffic.

Bahrain Airport is easily accessible by various means of transportation. Car rental desks are conveniently located in the public Arrivals hall on the ground floor of the building, with several agencies available on-site. The airport is also connected to the public transportation system via red local buses, which have free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning. Additionally, taxi services are available 24/7, with a clearly marked queuing area within Car Park B.

For those seeking accommodation near the airport, there are several options available. The Bahrain Airport Hotel is located inside the airport opposite Gate 15 and offers a range of rooms and sleep pods. Alternatively, the Mövenpick Hotel is located adjacent to the airport and provides airport transfers for a fee. Other nearby hotels include Le Méridien Bahrain, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain, and Ibis Bahrain International Airport.

What are the transport options to and from the airport?

Transport Options to and from Bahrain Airport

Bahrain International Airport is located in Muharraq, adjacent to the capital Manama. The airport is served by several transport options, providing travellers with convenient and flexible ways to get to and from the airport. Here is an overview of the transport options available:

• Bus: Bahrain Airport (BAH) is connected to the public transportation system via red local buses, which have free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. There are several bus routes that travellers can take, including the A1, A2, 10, and 11. The bus stop can be found near gates 3 and 4 on the Arrivals Level. Fares are affordable, with the option to purchase a Go Card from the driver for BHD 1 or a single ticket for BHD 0.3.
• Car: For those who prefer the convenience of driving, there are multiple parking options available at the airport. Car Park B is a multi-storey car park located adjacent to the passenger terminal building. Car Park D is ideal for long-term parking and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminal. The airport also offers valet parking.
• Taxi: Bahrain International Airport is served by taxi operators 24 hours a day, providing travellers with a convenient way to get to their destination. The taxi queuing area is clearly marked and located within Car Park B.
• Ride-sharing: Uber is available at Bahrain Airport, offering travellers an alternative to traditional taxis. A ride to the city centre typically costs around €13 to €15.
• Car Rental: For travellers who want more flexibility, there are several car rental agencies located within the airport, including Allied, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt, among others. The rental car desks can be found in the public area of the Arrivals concourse on the ground floor, opposite Gates 1 and 2.

These transport options provide travellers with a range of choices to suit their needs and preferences, ensuring a smooth journey to and from Bahrain International Airport.

What facilities does the airport offer?

Bahrain International Airport offers a range of facilities for passengers, visitors, and aviation businesses.

For passengers

The airport has a hotel, lounges, dining options, and various other amenities.

Bahrain Airport Hotel is located inside the airport opposite Gate 15. It offers 24 sleep pods, 24 rooms, 17 compact rooms, and 17 family rooms. The hotel also has a small spa.

The Pearl Lounge has two locations: one in the departures area and one in the arrivals area. The departure lounge is located near Gate 15A-15B, and the arrivals lounge is located in the Landside Arrival Hall, opposite Gate 166. Both lounges are open 24 hours and can be accessed by paying at the door.

The Gulf Air Lounge: Falcon Gold Lounge is located in the departures area. It offers exclusive services, live cooking stations, a deli counter, a dessert counter, and a wide selection of beverages.

The airport also has a wide variety of shops, including retail, cosmetic, and gift shops, as well as duty-free stores. There are also plenty of dining options, with a range of restaurants and cafes operating 24/7.

Other facilities include:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Art galleries
• ATMs
• Baggage trolleys
• Banking services
• Currency exchange
• Baby care facilities
• Kids play zone
• Information desk
• Luggage wrapping services
• Medical services
• Pharmacies
• Porters
• Prayer rooms
• Smoking rooms
• VAT refund services

For aviation businesses

The airport's 25,000 sqm Cargo Terminal offers a range of services, including export cargo sales, transhipment, inter-airport trucking, and customs clearance. DHL Aviation, FedEx, TNT Express, Aramex, and Global Logistical Services (GLS) operate out of the airport.

Other facilities

The airport also has car parking facilities, with both short and long-stay options available. Car Park B is a multi-storey car park located adjacent to the new passenger terminal building. Car Park D is located opposite the New Passenger Terminal and is ideal for long-term parking. The airport also offers a valet and limousine service.

What are the nearby attractions?

Nearby Attractions

Bahrain International Airport is located in Muharraq, adjacent to the capital Manama. The airport itself offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. However, for those looking to venture beyond the airport, there are several nearby attractions worth considering. Here are some intriguing places to visit within a short distance of the airport:

Manama City

Embark on a tour of Manama, Bahrain's vibrant capital city. Witness a blend of historic sites, such as the imposing Bab Al Bahrain, and modern architectural marvels like the Bahrain World Trade Center. Explore the bustling local markets, such as the Manama Souq, where you can find spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Discover the mix of old and new in Manama, with its gleaming skyscrapers and ancient souks.

Bahrain National Museum

Delve into the rich history of Bahrain at the National Museum in Manama. Explore archaeological artifacts dating back thousands of years, from the Dilmun civilization to the Portuguese era. Interactive exhibits and multimedia displays bring the country's cultural and historical past to life.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Admire the intricate mosaic tile work, expansive prayer halls, and towering minarets. Join a guided tour to deepen your understanding of Islamic architecture and its cultural significance.

Al Areen Wildlife Park

Encounter diverse animal species at the Al Areen Wildlife Park, a popular family destination. Explore various habitats and discover creatures native to the Arabian Peninsula, including the Arabian Oryx, Sand Gazelle, and playful monkeys. Learn about local conservation efforts and explore the botanical gardens showcasing the region's unique flora.

Bahrain International Circuit

For motorsport enthusiasts, a visit to the Bahrain International Circuit is a must. Home to the Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix, the circuit offers guided tours of the pit lane, grandstands, and the state-of-the-art paddock complex. If you're lucky, your visit might coincide with a racing event, allowing you to witness the thrill of high-speed racing.

In addition to these attractions, Bahrain also offers other unique experiences, such as exploring the ruins of the old Dilmun civilizations, the mighty fortress of Qalat Al Bahrain, and the famous scuba diving sites. The country is also known for its vibrant culture, with traditional souks, exquisite carpets, and pearl jewellery. With a mix of historical sites and modern developments, Bahrain offers a range of nearby attractions to suit different interests.

What are the accommodation options for layovers?

Accommodation Options for Layovers

Bahrain International Airport has a hotel at the departure level, the Bahrain Airport Hotel, which offers a variety of accommodation types for transit passengers. The hotel is located inside the airport opposite Gate 15. It features 24 sleep pods, 24 standard rooms, 17 compact rooms, and 17 family rooms. There is also a room equipped for passengers with reduced mobility. The sleep pods and rooms can be booked for as little as 3 hours. The hotel also offers a small spa, a comfortable lounge, and separate spas for men and women.

For those who prefer not to stay inside the airport, there are several hotels located near Bahrain International Airport:

• Mövenpick Hotel – This upscale hotel is located adjacent to the airport and provides comfortable rooms, dining options, a rooftop bar, and a pool area. It's a good choice for business travellers and those with layovers.
• The Gulf Hotel Bahrain – A renowned luxury hotel located approximately a 10-minute drive from the airport. It offers multiple dining options, spa services, and well-appointed rooms.
• Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort – This resort offers a pleasant beachfront location and is about a 15-20 minute drive from the airport. It's a good option for those who want to relax by the sea during their layover.

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