Dating In Bahrain: A Guide To Finding Love Abroad

Dating in Bahrain can be tricky, especially if you're an expat. The country is largely Islamic and conservative, with a strong focus on family and relationships. While Bahrain is considered more advanced than other Arab nations, dating culture is still largely influenced by religious and cultural norms. Online dating is becoming increasingly popular, but it's important to remember that locals tend to avoid dating foreigners. If you're looking to date a local, you'll need to be patient and respectful of their cultural values. However, if you're open to dating non-locals or tourists, you'll find a more relaxed attitude towards relationships.

Online dating in Bahrain

Online dating has become a popular way to meet people in Bahrain, with a variety of dating apps available offering their unique features to help people find their perfect match.

Popular Dating Apps in Bahrain

• Tinder is one of the most popular dating apps in Bahrain, offering a fun and easy way to meet people. With its simple interface, users can create an account, add their interests, photos, and a short bio to showcase their personality. Tinder's Passport™ feature allows users to match with people from other cities or countries, making it ideal for those who travel frequently.
• Bumble is another leading dating app in Bahrain, known for its female-first approach, where women make the first move.
• Badoo is also widely used in Bahrain, providing a platform to meet and interact with potential dates.
• Other popular dating apps in Bahrain include Boo, OkCupid, Happn, Muzz, and Pheromance Dating.

Tips for Online Dating in Bahrain

When using dating apps in Bahrain, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure a safe and positive experience:

• Create a Detailed Profile: Take the time to fill out your profile completely, including your interests, hobbies, and a brief description of yourself. This helps potential matches get a better sense of who you are and what you're looking for.
• Use Privacy Settings: Most dating apps offer privacy settings that allow you to control who can see your profile and how much information you share. Adjust these settings to your comfort level.
• Be Selective: Don't feel pressured to accept every match or reply to every message. Take your time to assess potential dates and trust your instincts.
• Stay Safe: When meeting someone for the first time, always choose a public place and let someone else know where you're going and who you're meeting. Start by chatting online before you meet in person.
• Be Open-Minded: Online dating gives you the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds and with different perspectives. Embrace these differences and be open to new experiences.

Meeting people in bars, pubs and nightclubs

Bahrain's nightlife is not as vibrant as that of Western countries, but it is still quite decent and peaceful. If you want to meet people at night, it is a good idea to visit bars, pubs, and nightclubs, as many women go out to enjoy themselves after a long day. There are a limited number of nightclubs in Bahrain, but the ones that exist are famous and usually filled with women.

When approaching someone at night, it is advisable to carry a casual and relaxed vibe. During the night, people are usually in a more relaxed mood, and the vibe instills a feeling of a liberal mindset. If a girl is visiting a nightclub, there is a good chance that she is very liberal and open to hookups.

• Downtown Bar (Manama): This bar is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It is known for its classical live music, jam sessions, local bands, and open mic nights. It also serves delicious food and a range of traditional wines and cocktails.
• JJ Irish Pub (Manama): This pub has a spacious and friendly atmosphere, offering a wide selection of foreign and domestic beer brands. They host various events throughout the week, including karaoke, ladies' night, pub quizzes, and live music by acclaimed bands.
• The One (Al Juffair): Located in Al Juffair, this venue caters to Western and American tastes in food and drink. They frequently organise parties featuring international music guests such as Fatty Wap, Lil Jon, and Inna.
• Klub 360 (Manama): Klub 360 is one of the best nightclubs in Bahrain, known for its lively and soothing environment. It is located on the ground floor of the Elite Hotel and features impressive lighting, murals, video walls, and amazing visual effects.
• Club LIV Bahrain (Manama): If you're looking for a quiet and decent place to hang out, Club LIV is a great option. They offer authentic drinks and acoustic music in a unique, state-of-the-art ambience.
• Club XS (Manama): Located in the Ramee Rose Hotel, this club is ideal for those who want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan life. It offers a reasonable price range and a variety of drinks, along with a magnificent design and live music.
• Bushido Lounge (Manama): Located on the second floor of the Bushido Restaurant, Bushido Lounge boasts the most sophisticated bar area in the country. Their intimate ambiance and exclusive selection of Sakes make it a must-visit destination.
• The Warbler (Manama): This British-style sports pub, located in the Baisan International Hotel, hosts events every night. It features a dance floor, live music, and live sports streaming on a huge screen, along with a variety of cuisines to cater to all tastes.

Remember that the dating culture in Bahrain may be different from what you are used to, especially if you are a foreigner. Bahraini women tend to be shy and avoid talking to strangers, as it is not socially acceptable. Additionally, the country's conservative nature, influenced by Islam, may impact how people interact in bars and nightclubs.

Online dating has played a significant role in changing people's attitudes towards dating, and it may be a good idea to sign up for a dating site or app before visiting the nightlife venues. That way, you can meet a few locals ahead of time and increase your chances of making meaningful connections.

Dating as an expat in Bahrain

Understanding the Dating Culture in Bahrain

It's important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations in Bahrain, especially as an expat. Bahrain is a Muslim country, and while it is relatively progressive compared to its neighbouring countries, certain cultural and religious values are still deeply rooted in its society.

For example, public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, and sex outside of marriage is not permitted. Men usually pay for dates, and women might be more reserved when it comes to physical contact. Understanding and respecting these cultural differences will make your dating experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Meeting People in Bahrain

Meeting potential partners can be challenging in a new country, but there are several ways to increase your chances of finding like-minded individuals:

• Get Involved in the Expat Community: Bahrain has a sizeable expat community, and connecting with fellow expats can be a great way to expand your social circle. Join online forums, Facebook groups, or expat clubs and associations. These groups often organise social events and provide valuable support and advice.
• Attend Local Events: Bahrain hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Attending these events allows you to experience the local culture while also meeting people from diverse backgrounds, including locals and expats.
• Use Online Dating Apps: Online dating is a popular way to meet people in Bahrain. Tinder is commonly used, and there are also expat-specific dating sites such as Expatica and Expatsinglesinbahrain.com. These platforms can help you connect with individuals looking for similar experiences.
• Socialise in Public Spaces: Places like cafes, bars, and pubs are great for socialising and meeting new people. Expat bars and Irish pubs, in particular, tend to attract a diverse crowd of expatriates.
• Join Interest Groups: Joining interest groups, such as book clubs, sports clubs, or language classes, is an excellent way to meet people with similar interests. These groups provide a more relaxed and natural setting to form connections.
• Utilise Mutual Connections: Meeting people through mutual friends or work colleagues is a common way to find potential partners. Don't be afraid to let your friends know you're looking to date, and ask them to introduce you to potential matches within their circles.

Additional Considerations

• Safety: Always prioritise your safety when meeting someone new, especially if you're connecting through online platforms. Meet in public places, and let someone know where you're going and who you're meeting.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural differences and respect the boundaries of the people you date. Open communication is essential to navigating cultural differences and ensuring everyone's comfort.
• Expectations: Dating in Bahrain, like anywhere else, may have its ups and downs. Go into it with realistic expectations, and remember that it's okay to take your time and get to know someone before rushing into anything serious.
• Enjoy the Experience: Dating in a new country can be exciting and eye-opening. Embrace the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and create meaningful connections.

Understanding the culture and customs of Bahrain

Bahrain is a small state in the Middle East, located in the Persian Gulf. The name "Bahrain" is derived from the Arabic word "al-bahrayn", meaning "two seas". The country is an archipelago, consisting of Bahrain Island and 30 smaller islands. The main island makes up seven-eighths of the country's total area of 240 square miles (620 square kilometres). The country is humid for much of the year, with very little rainfall.

Bahrain's culture is similar to that of its Arab neighbours in the Arabian Gulf region. The country is ethnically diverse, with at least 8-9 different ethnic groups of Bahraini citizens. The population is mostly Muslim, including both Sunni and Shia sects, but Bahrain also has the largest Christian minority within the Arab states of the Arabian Gulf. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.

Religion

Islam is the state religion of Bahrain, and the country's culture and customs are heavily influenced by this. For example, the traditional dress for women is an abaya, a long, loose-fitting black gown, worn with a black cloth on the head called a hijab. Men traditionally wear a thobe, along with a keffiyeh (a white knitted skull cap), a ghutra (a square scarf, usually red and white checked or all white, worn over the keffiyeh), and an agal (a thick, double black cord that holds the ghutra in place).

Muslims make up around 85% of the population, with 70% being Shia and 15% Sunni. The remaining 15% follow other religions, including Christianity and Judaism, or indigenous practices. Religious affiliation is of primary importance in defining one's identity in Bahrain.

Social Customs

Bahrain is considered more accepting of modernisation and Westernisation than its neighbours. While the country is still conservative, its social customs are more moderate and relaxed.

Coffee is an important part of social life, with coffee shops being popular meeting places. Bahraini cuisine typically features fish, shrimp, meat, rice, and dates. Machbous, a dish of fish or meat served with rice, is a popular traditional meal.

Arts and Culture

Bahrain has a rich literary tradition, with most work produced in the classical Arabic style. There is also a small but flourishing avant-garde art community. Traditional handicraft industries, such as gold working, tinsmithing, and textile making, are supported by the state and remain popular.

Music is an important part of Bahraini life, with a rich folk music culture. Since 1991, the country has held an annual music festival.

Sports and Leisure

Football (soccer) is the most popular modern sport in Bahrain, while traditional pastimes such as horse riding, falconry, and gazelle and hare hunting are still practised by wealthier Bahrainis.

Finding places to meet people in Bahrain

Bahrain is a small state in the Persian Gulf, with a rich history and a diverse range of attractions. The country has a strong Islamic influence, which is reflected in its architecture, culture, and traditions. While the people of Bahrain are generally conservative and family-oriented, the country is also known for its friendly and hospitable nature. Here are some places where you can meet people and potentially make new friends or find a date.

Social Events and Clubs

Bahrain has a variety of social events and clubs that cater to different interests. These include poetry nights, music events, movies, board game nights, debates, and sports clubs. The Ravens Nest and The Misfits are two popular groups that host themed nights and social gatherings, providing opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.

Bars, Pubs, and Nightclubs

The nightlife in Bahrain offers a decent and peaceful atmosphere to socialise and meet new people. Women in Bahrain are generally conservative and avoid going out alone, but those who do go to nightclubs are usually more liberal and open-minded. Some popular nightclubs include Klub 360, Club LIV, and Club XS.

Beaches

As an island country, Bahrain has several public and private beaches that attract both locals and tourists. Beaches like Bahrain Coral Bay Beach and Ritz Carlton Beach are frequented by women from wealthy families who tend to have a more liberal mindset. This could be a good place to meet and interact with people in a relaxed setting.

Cafes and Restaurants

The people of Bahrain, especially women, enjoy fine food and often visit cafes and restaurants during the day. Manama, the capital city, has a variety of dining options, including traditional Middle Eastern cuisine and international fare. Juffair, an area in Manama, is known for its restaurants and bars, making it a popular destination for socialising and meeting new people.

Shopping Malls

Shopping is a common pastime in Bahrain, and the country has several modern shopping malls. Seef Mall and Dragon City Bahrain are two notable malls that attract a diverse range of visitors. These malls offer a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making them ideal places to meet people with similar interests.

Universities and Colleges

Bahrain has a growing education sector, with many universities and colleges attracting local and international students. These institutions provide an excellent opportunity to meet young, open-minded individuals who are often looking to form new connections and explore relationships.

Online Dating

With the advent of technology, online dating has become a popular way to meet people in Bahrain. Tinder and Bumble are commonly used apps, although some locals caution against them, suggesting that dating apps are primarily used for hookups. However, other apps like Muzmatch, which is designed for Muslims seeking marriage, may be more suitable for those looking for more serious relationships.

Frequently asked questions