Exploring Bahrain's Money Withdrawal Limits And Restrictions

The amount of money one can take out of Bahrain depends on the currency and the destination country. For example, when travelling from Bahrain to India, the limit for Indian rupees is INR 25,000. The Bahraini Dinar is the second-highest-valued currency unit in the world, and the country's economy is heavily dependent on oil and gas. Bahrain has also invested in the banking and tourism sectors, with a successful finance industry based in the country's capital, Manama.

Indian rupees: how much can you take from Bahrain to India?

The amount of Indian rupees that can be taken from Bahrain to India depends on several factors, including the method of transfer and the payment method. It's important to consult official sources, such as the Embassy of India, for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, it is recommended to use money transfer services or bank accounts instead of carrying large amounts of cash when travelling.

When it comes to transferring money from Bahrain to India, there are a few options available. Western Union, for example, offers money transfer services between the two countries. Other options include using a service like Xe or Wise, which provide competitive exchange rates and low to no fees on international money transfers.

The exchange rate between the Bahraini Dinar (BHD) and the Indian Rupee (INR) fluctuates and should be checked before making any transfers. As of November 2024, 1 BHD is approximately equal to 224 INR, but this rate may vary slightly depending on the source and the timing.

It's worth noting that Bahrain's economy is heavily dependent on oil and gas, and the country has a successful finance industry, with Manama, its capital, being home to many large financial institutions. Bahrain's banking and financial services sector, particularly Islamic banking, have benefited from the regional boom driven by the demand for oil. This has contributed to Bahrain being recognised as a high-income economy by the World Bank.

Cost of living in Bahrain

The cost of living in Bahrain is, on average, 26.2% lower than in the United States. The Bahraini Dinar is the second-highest-valued currency unit globally, and there is no personal income tax in Bahrain.

The cost of living in Manama, Bahrain's capital, is 53.2% less expensive than in New York, and rent in Manama is, on average, 80.8% lower than in New York.

A family of four's estimated monthly costs in Manama are 2,954.4$ (1,113.4 BHD) without rent. A single person's estimated monthly costs are 833.7$ (314.2 BHD) without rent.

Some examples of costs in Manama are:

• Meal for one, inexpensive restaurant: 5$ (1.9 BHD)
• McMeal at McDonald's: 5.5$ (2.1 BHD)
• Domestic beer (0.5-liter bottle): 3.5$ (1.3 BHD)
• Imported beer (12 oz small bottle): 4.5$ (1.7 BHD)
• Cappuccino: 4.5$ (1.7 BHD)
• Water (12 oz small bottle): 0.3$ (0.11 BHD)
• Milk (regular), (1 gallon): 1.5$ (0.55 BHD)
• Loaf of fresh white bread (1 lb): 0.5$ (0.18 BHD)
• Rice (white), (1 lb): 0.7$ (0.25 BHD)
• Chicken fillets (1 lb): 4.5$ (1.7 BHD)
• Beef round (1 lb): 7.5$ (2.8 BHD)
• Bottle of wine (mid-range): 15$ (5.7 BHD)
• Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (or equivalent new car): 24,000$ (9,074 BHD)
• One-bedroom apartment in the city center: 1,000$ (377 BHD)
• Utilities for 915 sq ft apartment (electricity, heating, cooling, garbage): 120$ (45.5 BHD)
• Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): 50$ (19 BHD)
• Fitness club, monthly fee for one adult: 60$ (22.8 BHD)
• Cinema ticket, international release: 11$ (4.1 BHD)
• Preschool (or kindergarten), full day, private, monthly for one child: 400$ (151.5 BHD)
• 1 pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar): 50$ (19 BHD)
• 1 pair of men's leather business shoes: 100$ (37.7 BHD)

Cost of accommodation in Bahrain

The cost of accommodation in Bahrain varies depending on the location and the number of bedrooms. Here is an overview of the cost of accommodation in this country:

According to one source, a family of four's estimated monthly costs without rent are $3,067.80 or 1,156.4 BHD. For a single person, the estimated monthly costs without rent are $864.70 or 325.9 BHD. Rent in Bahrain is, on average, 51.3% lower than in the United States.

Another source provides the following estimated costs for accommodation in Bahrain:

• Monthly rent for 85 square metres (900 square feet) furnished accommodation in an expensive area: 850 BHD
• Monthly rent for 85 square metres (900 square feet) furnished accommodation in a normal area: 550 BHD
• Monthly rent for a 45 square metre (480 square feet) furnished studio in an expensive area: 450 BHD
• Monthly rent for a 45 square metre (480 square feet) furnished studio in a normal area: 300 BHD

Additionally, utilities for one month (including heating, electricity, gas, etc.) for two people in an 85-square-metre flat are estimated at 150 BHD, while utilities for one person in a 45-square-metre studio are estimated at 75 BHD.

When it comes to specific types of accommodation, here are some estimated prices for apartments in Bahrain:

• Apartment (1 bedroom) in the city centre: 550 BHD
• Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of the centre: 350 BHD
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) in the city centre: 950 BHD
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) outside of the centre: 700 BHD

It is worth noting that Bahrain is not considered an expensive country compared to European and Australian countries. However, accommodation and utilities can be significant expenses, and the minimum wage in Bahrain may not be sufficient to cover all expenses. Those with average monthly salaries may be able to afford apartments in the city centres, but this could be challenging for those earning the minimum wage.

Cost of utilities in Bahrain

The cost of living in Bahrain is, on average, 26.2% lower than in the United States. The country's currency, the Bahraini Dinar, is the second-highest-valued currency unit globally.

Water and electricity in Bahrain are provided and subsidised by the government. The Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) supplies water and electricity, and you will receive two separate bills from the same authority. Gas, however, is not widely available through gas mains, so you will need to have it delivered if you want to use it for cooking or heating water.

The cost of basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) for a 915 sq ft apartment is estimated to be $146.30 (55.1BHD) per month. Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) is estimated to cost $67.40 (25.4BHD) per month, and a mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ of data is estimated to cost $22.48 (8.5BHD).

Cost of transportation in Bahrain

The cost of transportation in Bahrain varies depending on the mode of transport and the purpose of the travel. Here is an overview of the cost of transportation in the country:

• Public Transportation: Bahrain has a well-developed public transport system, with the Bahrain Public Transport Company operating over 20 bus routes across the Kingdom. Bus fares are affordable, making it a cost-effective way to get around. The exact price of a bus ticket is not readily available, but it is likely to be lower than the average daily cost of local transportation, which is around $30 (BHD11) per person.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Bahrain, with several companies offering modern fleets at affordable prices. Taxi drivers are required to use a meter to calculate the fare, which is transparently displayed. While taxi prices can vary, they are generally significantly more expensive than public transportation.
• Ride-sharing: Ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft are available in Bahrain. These services are likely to be more expensive than public transportation but may offer more convenience and comfort.
• Car Rental: Renting a car is an option for those who want more flexibility and comfort during their stay in Bahrain. Car rental prices can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company, but it is generally a more expensive option compared to public transportation or taxis.
• Air Travel: Bahrain has four airports, including Bahrain International Airport, which is one of the busiest in the Persian Gulf. Air travel costs can vary depending on the origin and destination of the flight, but it is generally a more expensive mode of transportation.
• Sea Travel: Bahrain has three harbours in Manama, Mina Salman, and Sitrah. Sea travel costs can vary depending on the type of vessel and the destination, but it is likely to be a more expensive option for transportation.

It is worth noting that the cost of transportation in Bahrain can also be influenced by factors such as the time of year, with peak season typically resulting in higher prices. Additionally, special events such as the Bahrain Grand Prix can cause prices to surge. Overall, Bahrain is considered a moderately priced destination, with reasonable costs for transportation, food, accommodation, and activities.

Frequently asked questions