Exploring Bahrain: Essential Exit Strategies And Tips

There are several things to be aware of when it comes to exiting Bahrain. Firstly, it is important to ensure that you have a valid visa and passport. Visas are typically issued for a 2-week period but can be extended for up to 6 months. It is also crucial to check for any exit restrictions that may apply. For example, those with unpaid debt or involvement in legal proceedings may not be allowed to leave until the issue is resolved. Additionally, there are specific requirements for residents intending to return to Bahrain, such as obtaining a re-entry permit and renewing visas and residency permits. When travelling by road from Qatar to Bahrain via Saudi Arabia, it is necessary to cross the Abu Samra border and take the King Fahd Causeway. This journey includes multiple checkpoints and documentation requirements, as well as vehicle insurance mandates. It is also important to note that certain behaviours, such as public drunkenness and disorderly conduct, can result in arrest and impact one's ability to exit the country.

Exit restrictions: unpaid debt, legal proceedings, and custody disputes

If you are involved in a dispute in Bahrain, including civil and criminal disputes or immigration violations, you may be prevented from leaving the country. This includes those involved in custody disputes, as children are generally subject to court-imposed travel bans when custody cases are before the local court. Even when custody is not an issue, the father can request that the court restrict the travel of minor children.

If you are involved in legal proceedings, you may be subject to a travel ban until the issue is resolved. This could take several years and may force you to stay in Bahrain beyond the validity of your visa, at which point you would begin to accrue daily fines.

If you have unpaid debt, you may not be allowed to leave Bahrain until the issue is resolved. This could also cause you to overstay your visa and accrue daily fines.

It is important to note that you may not know you are subject to a travel ban until you try to leave or enter Bahrain. You can check with the Bahrain Immigration Department to see if you are subject to a travel ban.

Travel visas: two-week, six-month, and GCC resident visas

To enter Bahrain, you must have a visa. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose and duration of your visit.

Two-week tourist visa

Bahrain offers two-week tourist visas, which can be obtained through the Bahrain eVisa website or upon arrival. This is the only official website to apply for a visa, and no third-party companies or websites are authorised to offer any form of assistance with visa applications. It is recommended that you obtain your visa before departure, as local immigration officials may refuse entry to anyone for any reason.

Six-month visit visa

Visit visas for stays of up to six months are also available. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply. If you enter Bahrain on a visit visa, you cannot start employment in the country. Overstaying your visa can result in penalties, legal issues, and the cancellation of your work visa.

GCC resident visa

GCC residents can obtain a Golden Residency Visa through the official website.

Travel by road: crossing borders and required documents

If you're planning to travel to Bahrain by road, there are a few things you need to keep in mind, especially if you're crossing borders and dealing with visas and other required documents. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

Visas and Official Documents:

Before embarking on your journey, ensure that you have sorted out your visas for both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Some visas may only allow entry into the country by air, so it's crucial to check the terms of your visa before travelling.

For Qatar residents, you will need to cross the Abu Samra border from Qatar to Saudi Arabia and then take the King Fahd Causeway, a 25km bridge that connects Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Note that Qatari citizens do not require a visa to enter Bahrain or Saudi Arabia.

As a GCC resident, you may be eligible for a visa on arrival or apply for a tourist visa online. This is applicable for all profession categories except for the category of 'labourer'. You can apply for the e-visa using the national e-visa portal and check your visa eligibility beforehand. The visa fee for a two-week e-visa is QR 87 (BD 9), including the application and visa fees.

Alternatively, you can purchase the visa upon arrival at the Bahrain immigration office at the border. However, it is recommended to check the latest information on the official websites of the respective countries.

Vehicle Insurance and Documentation:

Vehicle insurance is mandatory for both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. You will need to purchase separate insurance for each country. Make sure you have the necessary documentation, including a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, before crossing the border.

Border Crossing Process:

When exiting Qatar and entering Saudi Arabia through the Abu Samra border, you will need to provide your personal documents for validation by the immigration authorities of both countries. Remember to keep your vehicle documents handy, as they will be checked and validated after the passport control process.

After crossing into Saudi Arabia, continue your journey towards Al Khobar, where you will find the King Fahd Causeway leading to Bahrain. Remember to purchase the vehicle toll tax for the causeway, which is BD 2.5 or SR 25.

Upon reaching the Bahrain entry point, also known as 'Passport Island', you will need to provide your passport copy, GCC residency (Qatar ID), and visa documents to the Bahrain immigration office. At this point, you may also need to undergo biometrics if it is your first entry into Bahrain.

Returning to Saudi Arabia:

When leaving Bahrain, you will need to go through similar procedures. Approach the toll gate from the Bahrain side and make the necessary payments. After crossing the causeway, you will reach the Bahrain immigration/customs office, where your personal documents will be checked and validated. Continue towards the Saudi Arabia border, where your vehicle will be inspected by Saudi customs officials.

Important Considerations:

• Always carry your passport and other essential documents with you.
• Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your expected departure date.
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case of loss or confiscation.
• Obtain the necessary visas before your trip, and ensure they are valid for the duration of your stay.
• Be cautious of restricted items when crossing borders, as certain items may be prohibited.
• Familiarise yourself with the driving rules and regulations in Bahrain, such as driving on the right-hand side and compulsory seatbelt use.
• Stay updated with the latest travel advisories and safety guidelines for the region.

Travel by air: e-visa, passport validity, and vaccination requirements

When travelling by air, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to e-visas, passport validity, and vaccination requirements.

Firstly, let's talk about e-visas. If you are planning to exit the airport during your layover in Bahrain, you will need to obtain a transit visa. You have two options: applying for a transit visa through your airline or doing it yourself by visiting the e-visa website. The latter is generally a straightforward process. However, it is recommended to inquire about the transit visa with your airline ahead of time to be sure.

Now, let's discuss passport validity. It is important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date you expect to leave Bahrain. This is a standard requirement for entry into the country.

As for vaccination requirements, there are no specific vaccinations mentioned in the sources for air travel to Bahrain. However, it is always a good idea to be up-to-date on your routine vaccinations and consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic for any additional recommendations.

Additionally, it is worth noting that Bahrain has strict rules regarding HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. While these may not be vaccination requirements for air travel, they are important health considerations to keep in mind. If you have any of these conditions, it is recommended to verify the latest information with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain before travelling.

Travel advice: safety, terrorism, and local laws

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to a number of countries and territories due to the threat of terrorism and risk of civil unrest. Bahrain is not one of these countries. However, it is recommended that you exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Bahrain due to the threat of terrorism and risk of civil unrest.

Terrorism

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain, including in places visited by foreigners. Previous attacks using explosive devices in public places have killed and injured people. An attack has not been carried out successfully for several years. Terrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including on residential compounds, military, oil, transport, and aviation interests, and public places such as restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres, and mosques.

Civil Unrest

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. There is an increased threat of attacks against Israeli interests across the region. Demonstrations and protests may also occur, and the local security situation could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. The ongoing conflict may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations, flight diversions, and other travel disruptions across the region.

Local Laws

Bahrain is a liberal country compared to others in the region, but there are still conservative social views. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions and make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during Ramadan and Shia religious festivals.

You must carry photo ID, such as a passport, by law. You could be fined up to 300 Bahraini dinars if you cannot show photo ID when asked by the Bahraini authorities.

Dress conservatively in public places, particularly religious sites. Bahrainis often dress conservatively in traditional dress. You could cause offence if you dress inappropriately or not in accordance with Islamic values. Clothing should not expose shoulders or knees if you are a woman, or display offensive pictures or slogans. Nudity is strictly forbidden, including topless sunbathing.

Respect Islamic religious values. Any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and will likely lead to a heavy fine or prison sentence.

Muslims pray five times a day. Drivers may stop in lay-bys to pray. Be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk.

Offensive language, spitting, and aggressive behaviour (including 'road rage' hand gestures) are seen as seriously offensive and can result in a prison sentence and deportation.

Respect the local culture and public security rules when using social media. It could amount to a crime if you post online any message, video, or photograph that is critical of the Bahrain government or monarchy, appears to abuse, ridicule, or criticise the country, or is culturally insensitive.

Alcohol is legal in Bahrain, but drunken public behaviour is against the law. You could be fined, imprisoned, or deported. Security officers and airline staff will not tolerate passengers believed to be drunk at the airport, including those who are in transit. You may be denied boarding, detained, and fined.

Illegal drugs are strictly forbidden, even in residual amounts. Consuming or carrying illegal drugs, even if you are travelling through the airport, can lead to a prison sentence and deportation.

Some skincare products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in Bahrain, such as CBD oil.

It is illegal to fly drones or remote-controlled unmanned aerial vehicles without a valid licence or in restricted airspace.

Same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years old is not prohibited by law. However, public displays of affection can cause offence and are illegal. While arrests are rare, there are some reported cases of individuals being punished for same-sex activity.

Other Safety Advice

The overall level of crime in Bahrain is low, although pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur. Take care near the old market areas (souks). Crime is low in most areas, but you should take normal precautions to protect your belongings. For personal safety, only use reputable taxi companies.

There is a curfew on the waterways around Bahrain between 6:00 pm and 4:00 am. The local authorities are sensitive to the security around the sea areas of the Gulf. Vessels entering these waters or ports can be detained and inspected, and there have been occasional arrests. Make sure you have the necessary clearances before you enter the waters or visit ports. Avoid any sensitive areas.

Take care when travelling by local sailing boats ('dhows'). The safety of these vessels may not comply with UK standards. Make sure life jackets are available.

The weather in Bahrain can be extremely hot and humid in the summer period between May and September. Temperatures can go as high as 50 degrees Celsius during the day. If you are travelling to Bahrain during these times, avoid spending prolonged periods outdoors. Sandstorms and dust storms are common. Monitor local media for updates.

Frequently asked questions