Bahrain International Airport: Size, Scale, And Significance

Bahrain International Airport is a large airport with a capacity of 14 million passengers per year. The new terminal, which opened in January 2021, is around 207,000 square meters, making it roughly four times the size of the previous terminal. The airport has 12 gates with direct access to the terminal and some remote gates. It features 32 premium check-in counters, 74 check-in counters, 36 passport control booths, 8 e-gates, a world-class retail area, multiple lounges, 8 baggage reclaim belts, and a multi-story car park. The airport is managed by the Bahrain Airport Company and serves as the hub for the national carrier, Gulf Air.

Bahrain International Airport's new terminal

Bahrain International Airport is the international airport of Bahrain, located on Muharraq Island, adjacent to the capital Manama and the city of Muharraq. It is the oldest international airport in the Persian Gulf, established in 1927.

The airport's new $1.1 billion terminal opened on 28 January 2021. Covering 210,000 square meters, the new terminal is roughly four times the size of the previous one and has increased the airport's capacity to 14 million passengers and 130,000 air traffic movements per year. The new terminal features check-in halls, check-in desks, passport control booths, E-gates, security lanes, a duty-free retail space, lounges, food and beverage zones, 24 departure gates, and 7,000 new parking spaces.

The new terminal is designed to enhance the passenger experience, offering a range of amenities and efficient transit facilities. The terminal features a unique wave-like ceiling pattern and a central "boulevard" with high-end duty-free shops. The centre of the terminal is a circular atrium with a massive screen displaying images of Bahrain and advertisements. The terminal also offers a variety of seating options, including traditional seating, high-top communal tables, reclined seats, and couches.

In addition to the new terminal, Bahrain International Airport also features the Awal Private Terminal, a dedicated facility for VIP passengers, government officials, and private aviation clients, offering exclusive check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.

The airport has received recognition for its sustainability efforts, including a LEED gold certification for the new Terminal Passenger Building and becoming the first airport in the world to achieve the International Air Transport Association Environmental Assessment Certification.

The airport's history

Bahrain International Airport is the international airport of Bahrain, located on Muharraq Island, adjacent to the capital Manama. It is the oldest international airport in the Persian Gulf, established in 1927 when a chartered flight landed in Bahrain. However, the first recorded flight to Bahrain took place in 1918 when a Vickers Vimy bomber of the Royal Air Force landed on a survey flight from London to Calcutta.

The first scheduled commercial airliner to arrive in Bahrain was in 1932, carrying 24 passengers from London to Delhi. This established Bahrain as one of the Persian Gulf's first international airports. The flight took several days, with frequent stops and overnight stays. By 1936, the London to India route via Bahrain had been increased to a twice-weekly frequency.

During World War II, the airport was used by the United States Army Air Forces Air Transport Command Central African Wing and served as a stopover en route to Iran or present-day UAE. From 1943 until Bahrain's independence in 1971, the Royal Air Force maintained a military installation at the airfield.

In 1950, a new local airline, Gulf Aviation Company, was formed, which later became Gulf Air. By this time, Bahrain was the most modern and advanced airport in the Persian Gulf, attracting other carriers such as Middle East Airlines, Air India, and Iran Air. A new passenger terminal opened in December 1961.

In the 1970s, the airport expanded further to accommodate the Boeing 747 jumbo jet. New passenger facilities were opened in December 1971, which included an area for four 747 aircraft. In 1976, the airport inaugurated supersonic flights with the start of regular BA Concorde service between London and Bahrain.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the airport underwent major facelifts, and several major airline companies made it a destination. A new US$100 million terminal was inaugurated in 1994, boosting the airport's capacity to 10 million passengers annually.

In the 21st century, the airport continued to expand and improve sustainability. A new $1.1 billion terminal opened in January 2021, increasing the airport's capacity to 14 million passengers and enhancing its facilities and amenities.

Passenger capacity

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has a passenger capacity of 14 million per year. This is a significant increase from its previous capacity of 10 million per year. The airport is not yet at full capacity, with only around 65% of potential capacity expected to be reached in 2023.

The new terminal, which opened in January 2021, is around 207,000 to 210,000 square meters in size, roughly four times the size of the previous terminal. It features:

• 32 premium check-in counters and 74 standard check-in counters
• 36 passport control booths and 8 e-gates for departure
• A large duty-free retail area
• 24 jetty-served gates
• Multiple lounges, including 2 business-class check-in lounges
• 8 baggage reclaim belts
• A multi-story car park
• 7,000 new parking spaces

The new terminal is designed to provide a unique, world-class travel experience with a more personal, Bahraini feel. It offers a hassle-free approach to modern air travel, with a focus on passenger comfort and convenience. The terminal also features a variety of seating options, a kids' play area, and spotlessly clean public restrooms.

In addition to the new terminal, BIA also has the Awal Private Terminal, which provides exclusive services for VIP passengers, government officials, and private aviation clients.

Airlines and destinations

Bahrain International Airport is the international airport of Bahrain, located on Muharraq Island, adjacent to the capital Manama. It is the hub for the national carrier, Gulf Air, and is the oldest international airport in the Persian Gulf, established in 1927.

The airport has seen several expansions over the years, with the latest $1.1 billion terminal opening in January 2021, increasing the airport's capacity to 14 million passengers and 130,000 air traffic movements per year. The new terminal features check-in halls, passport control booths, security lanes, duty-free retail spaces, lounges, food and beverage zones, and 24 departure gates.

As for airlines and destinations, here is a list of some of the cities served by Bahrain International Airport:

• Abu Dhabi
• Cairo
• Sharjah
• Delhi
• Kannur
• Kochi
• Kozhikode
• London (ending in March 2025)
• Dubai
• Amman
• Athens
• Baku
• Bangalore
• Bangkok
• Frankfurt
• Guangzhou
• Istanbul
• Jeddah
• Karachi
• Kochi
• Kuwait City
• London
• Paris
• Riyadh
• Rome
• Shanghai
• Singapore
• Tbilisi
• Thiruvananthapuram

These cities are spread across various regions, including the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, showcasing the airport's diverse range of destinations.

Airport facilities

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has a wide range of facilities for passengers, including various dining and shopping options, as well as essential services.

Dining & Shopping

The airport features a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food outlets, catering to different tastes and preferences. These include Jamie Oliver's, a deli, a pizzeria, a food court, and several international chains such as Starbucks, KFC, and Burger King.

For shopping, BIA offers a range of options, from luxury and duty-free retail to local crafts and souvenirs. The airport also has a pharmacy and a 'souq' selling local goods.

Services

BIA provides essential services such as ATMs, currency exchange counters, and banking services through NBB Bank. There are also prayer rooms, smoking areas, and medical facilities, including a 24/7 airport clinic with healthcare professionals.

For families travelling with children, there is an Entertainment Zone with interactive toys, gaming consoles, and comfortable seating. Additionally, baby strollers and dedicated nursing rooms are available.

Other services include baggage wrapping, porters, and valet parking.

Lounges

The airport has several lounges, including the Gulf Air Lounge, the Pearl Lounge, and the Falcon Gold Lounge. These lounges offer comfortable seating, dining options, and, in some cases, sleep pods and spa services.

Transit & Transportation

BIA is well-connected to the city, with 24/7 taxi services and bus services provided by the Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC). The airport also offers car rental services from 11 leading providers, with desks conveniently located in the Arrivals area.

Sustainability

The airport has been recognised for its sustainability efforts, achieving LEED gold certification for its new Terminal Passenger Building and ISO recertification for quality and environmental management.

Technology

BIA provides free WiFi for up to 6 hours and telephone services at its information desks. However, there is a notable lack of power outlets and charging stations throughout the terminal.

Frequently asked questions