Filipino In Bahrain: Is It A Safe Haven?

Bahrain is generally considered a safe destination for Filipino travellers, with a large community of Filipinos living and working in the country. Filipinos make up about 10% of Bahrain's population, working in a range of sectors including hospitality, retail, and domestic work. While there have been some reports of Filipinos facing legal issues in Bahrain, such as a case of a Filipino man being jailed and deported for cross-dressing, the country is still a popular destination for Filipino migrants. It's worth noting that there are some cultural differences to be aware of, such as conservative dress expectations and restrictions on alcohol consumption. Additionally, travellers should stay updated with travel advisories as there is a potential risk of terrorism and political unrest in the region. Overall, with proper precautions and awareness of local laws and customs, Filipinos can feel relatively safe when visiting or working in Bahrain.

Crime and safety

Bahrain is generally considered a safe destination for Filipino travellers, with many sources stating that crime is low in most areas. However, it is important to take normal safety precautions and remain vigilant, especially in certain situations. Here are some key points to consider regarding crime and safety in Bahrain:

Terrorism

Bahrain faces a threat of terrorist attacks, which could target tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. It is recommended to stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the instructions of local authorities and security reports.

Protests and Demonstrations

Bahrain regularly experiences protests and demonstrations, particularly on evenings and weekends. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent, with participants throwing rocks, Molotov cocktails, or using explosive devices. It is advised to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, stay vigilant, and follow news and travel advisories for updates.

Petty Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur in Bahrain, so it is important to secure your belongings and be cautious in old market areas, villages, and poorer districts, especially after dark.

Women's Safety

Women travelling alone in Bahrain may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse. Additionally, women have been detained when reporting sexual assault due to the need to prove that the encounter was non-consensual. Women travellers should take extra precautions, such as avoiding roaming alone at night or in less populated areas.

Scams and Fraud

Be cautious of job offers targeting foreigners, especially those offering "free visas" or "visa waivers," as these may be scams related to prostitution or other illegal activities.

Local Laws and Customs

Bahrain has conservative social views and adheres closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. It is important to respect local traditions, customs, and laws. Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites, and refrain from public displays of affection, as these can cause offence and may be illegal. Alcohol laws exist and drunken behaviour in public is against the law.

LGBTQ+ Safety

While same-sex relations between consenting adults over 21 are not criminalised, sodomy is illegal. Public displays of affection by LGBTQ+ individuals can cause offence and may be illegal. Although arrests are rare, there have been reports of individuals being punished for same-sex activity.

Road Safety

Drivers in Bahrain are often aggressive, and drifting sands and roaming animals pose additional hazards. Always carry your International Driving Permit and follow local traffic laws and regulations.

Overall, while Bahrain presents some safety concerns, taking appropriate precautions and staying informed can help ensure a safe experience for Filipino travellers.

Women's safety

Bahrain is a conservative society, and most women are expected to cover their heads and arms in public. Women travellers should refrain from wearing tight or revealing clothing and instead opt for long-sleeved outfits, trousers, or long skirts. Carrying a scarf is advisable for visits to mosques or other places that require covering one's head. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid isolated areas at night and to remain vigilant and aware of one's surroundings at all times.

While street harassment is relatively low in Bahrain, it is still advisable for women to avoid walking alone at night in sparsely populated areas and to dress modestly to respect local customs and religion. Public transportation, such as buses and registered taxi services or reliable ride-hailing apps, is generally considered safe.

It is important to be cautious when accepting job offers in Bahrain, as there are issues relating to women's rights and a lack of laws protecting women against domestic violence. Women seeking employment should be cautious of offers that include "free visas" or "visa waivers," as these may not be genuine and could lead to involvement in the underground and unregulated sex industry.

Overall, by taking necessary precautions and being mindful of local customs and laws, women can enhance their safety and have a positive experience during their time in Bahrain.

LGBTQ+ safety

Bahrain's LGBTQ+ community faces legal challenges and discrimination that non-LGBTQ+ residents do not experience. While same-sex sexual activity was decriminalised in 1976, laws against indecency remain and are used to target gender and sexual minorities. There is no law that prohibits discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, and the state offers no protection from it.

Laws and Enforcement

Although same-sex relationships are not explicitly criminalised, authorities have used vague penal code provisions against "indecency" and "immorality" to target sexual and gender minorities. Under these provisions, individuals may face imprisonment, fines, and deportation.

In 2021, members of parliament proposed a bill to amend the penal code, including criminalising the raising of LGBTQ+ flags or symbols, promoting LGBTQ+ ideas and beliefs, and attending LGBTQ+ gatherings. The bill also proposed renaming one of the chapters in the penal code to "Debauchery, Prostitution, and Perversion".

Law enforcement officials regularly inspect massage parlours and beauty shops, which are believed to be frequented by LGBTQ+ individuals. Officials have also sought to deport foreigners within the LGBTQ+ community and have attempted to prevent suspected LGBTQ+ individuals from entering the country.

Public Attitudes

Bahrain is a liberal country compared to its neighbours in the region, but many Bahrainis hold conservative social views. There is a notable crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals in the country, despite the legality of homosexuality.

In 2011, over 100 people were arrested at a same-sex wedding in northern Bahrain, and law enforcement officials checked if any of the arrested individuals had previous histories of "debauchery or sodomy".

Support and Resources

There is a lack of organisations known to be working with and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in Bahrain.

Travel Advice

Bahrain's law does not criminalise same-sex activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years old, although sodomy is illegal. While arrests for homosexual behaviour are relatively rare, individuals have been punished for same-sex activity.

LGBTQ+ travellers to Bahrain are advised to use social media responsibly and respect local culture and public security rules. Posting material that is critical of the government or appears to abuse, ridicule, or criticise the country may be considered a crime punishable under Bahraini law.

While same-sex activity between consenting adults is not criminalised in Bahrain, the LGBTQ+ community faces significant legal and social challenges due to conservative attitudes and regulations. Individuals may face discrimination, scrutiny, and punishment under vague indecency and immorality laws.

Employment

Filipinos in Bahrain are either migrants or descendants of the Philippines living in the country. As of 2012, there are approximately 40,000 Filipinos in Bahrain, making up 10% of the country's population.

Bahrain is a popular destination for Filipino workers, with a range of job opportunities available. Filipinos can be found working in a variety of sectors in Bahrain, including:

• Healthcare: nurses, caregivers, and cooks.
• Construction: contractors, technicians, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.
• Education: teachers, particularly those who can help students improve their English language skills.
• Sales and marketing: salespeople, supervisors, and managers.
• Hospitality: hotel, restaurant, and mall employees, including waiters, and domestic helpers or nannies.
• Finance: accountants and cashiers.
• Tourism: drivers, hairstylists, and other customer-facing roles.

The salaries in these sectors tend to be high, and there are good opportunities for career advancement. Filipinos also benefit from lower taxes in Bahrain, which has an open economy.

In addition, Bahrain is known for being a fast-growing financial centre, with jobs available in the financial, petroleum, and tourism sectors. Filipinos working in Bahrain can also take advantage of the good benefits, flexible working hours, and social interaction that comes with working in the country.

However, it is important to note that there may be cultural adjustments when working in Bahrain, including prohibitions on smoking and drinking alcohol in public places, and expectations around dress code and social interactions, particularly for women.

Overall, Bahrain is considered a safe and rewarding destination for Filipino workers, offering a range of employment opportunities and the chance to earn a higher income.

Religion and culture

The Constitution of Bahrain states that Islam is the official religion, with Shari'a (Islamic law) being a principal source for legislation. While the Constitution provides for freedom of religion, there are some limitations on this right. For example, the government prohibits anti-Islamic writings, and holding a religious meeting without a permit is illegal. However, other religions are respected in Bahrain and can be practised freely.

Muslims in Bahrain pray five times a day, and drivers may stop in lay-bys to pray. During the holy month of Ramadan, it is considered offensive to eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime. Playing loud music or dancing is also forbidden during this period. It is important to dress conservatively and modestly in public places, especially religious sites, as disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices can lead to heavy fines or prison sentences.

In 2010, 99.8% of Bahraini citizens were Muslim, with the remaining population consisting of about 1,000 Christians and fewer than 40 Jews. The Bahraini citizens of Muslim faith mainly belong to the Shi'a and Sunni branches of Islam, with the last official census in 1941 showing that 52% were Shia and 48% were Sunni. However, more recent estimates from the 1980s placed the percentage of Sunnis at 45% and Shias at 55%. The latest official data from 2011 showed a slight shift, with 51% of citizens identifying as Sunni and 49% as Shi'a.

Foreigners, mainly from South Asia and other Arab countries, made up 54% of the population in 2010. Of these, 45% were Muslim, and the remaining 55% followed various religions, including Christianity, Hinduism, Baháʼí, Buddhism, and Sikhism.

Bahrain is generally a liberal country compared to other nations in the region, but it still maintains conservative social views. It is important for visitors and residents to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions to avoid causing offence.

Frequently asked questions