Road Trip: Bahrain From Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The distance between Riyadh and Bahrain is approximately 415 kilometres (258 miles) as the crow flies, and the driving distance is around 461-476 kilometres (286-296 miles). The drive from Riyadh to Bahrain takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes without stopping, but it is recommended to add some buffer time for rest stops, food, and gas. The speed limit varies from 120-140, and there are speed cameras in operation. The journey is mostly highway, and there are gas stations along the route. It is also possible to travel by bus or plane.

Driving from Riyadh to Manama, Bahrain

Directions

The King Fahd Causeway, a 24-kilometre bridge that spans the Arabian Gulf, connects Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

Things to Note

• Driving is the cheapest way to travel from Riyadh to Manama, costing between €24-€40.
• The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, which takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes and costs €150-€340.
• If you are looking for a private car transfer, Daytrip offers a door-to-door service from Manama to Riyadh in 4 hours and 40 minutes.
• If you are looking for a train journey, Saudi Arabia Railways runs from Riyadh to Dammam, a city near the border of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The train journey takes about 4 hours and costs less than $100 one way. From Dammam, you will need to take a taxi to Bahrain, which will take about an hour and a half.

The King Fahd Causeway

The causeway has strengthened bilateral relations and regional defence and has helped both countries economically and politically. It is used by many Saudis and expats, especially on weekends, and is a popular route for those wishing to access the goods and activities available in Bahrain that are unavailable in Saudi Arabia.

The drive across the causeway takes around 30 minutes, and there are passport controls and customs facilities on Middle Island (Passport Island), one of the artificial islands created as part of the causeway. There are also restaurants, coffee shops, and other amenities on the island.

Riyadh to Dammam by train

The distance between Riyadh and Dammam is around 254 to 280 miles (410 to 450 km). The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes to 4 hours, with the fastest train taking 3 hours and 52 minutes. The train is operated by the Saudi Railways Company (SAR) and tickets cost $5 to $40. The train runs every four hours, five times a day, and the journey is direct with no transfers required.

The train from Riyadh to Dammam departs from Riyadh station, with the earliest train leaving at 15:41 and the latest at 19:48. The train arrives at Dammam station. There are several hotels near Dammam Station, with prices starting at $55 USD per night.

The Riyadh-Dammam line is a passenger railway line in Saudi Arabia, connecting the Eastern Province's capital city of Dammam with the Saudi capital, Riyadh. The line was opened in 1981, with the first trains running in the early 1950s. The line has seen upgrades and improvements over the years, with the introduction of high-speed trains in 2015, and there are plans for further upgrades to allow trains to reach speeds of 200 km/h (124 mph).

Taking the train from Riyadh to Dammam is a convenient and affordable option, with air-conditioned carriages and tickets available at a reasonable price.

Flying from RUH to BAH

If you're looking to fly from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Bahrain, you'll be departing from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and landing at Bahrain International Airport (BAH). The flight distance is around 258-261 miles (415-420 km) and the flight time is around 1 hour.

There are multiple airlines that operate this route, including:

• Gulf Air: Operates 35 flights per week and offers nonstop flights.
• Flynas: Offers the cheapest one-way tickets, with prices as low as $91.
• SAUDIA: Offers direct and indirect flights with a layover in Jeddah (JED).
• Lufthansa: Operates nonstop flights.
• Turkish Airlines

The price of flights can vary depending on the day of the week and the time of year. Generally, the cheapest days to fly are Sundays, while Fridays are the most expensive. August is the cheapest month to fly, while April and January tend to be the most expensive. It's recommended to book your flight around 1 week in advance, and the absolute cheapest prices are usually found 49 days before departure.

When travelling from Riyadh to Bahrain, you will likely need a visa. US citizens can obtain an e-visa online, which typically takes around 7 business days to process. Don't forget to also bring a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.

Happy travelling!

Driving tips and safety

The drive from Riyadh to Manama, Bahrain is approximately 463.5 kilometres or 303 miles, and it takes about 4 hours and 49 minutes to drive non-stop. However, it is recommended to add a buffer for rest stops, fuel, and meals, which will likely increase the total travel time to around 5 hours.

• Plan your route in advance and check road conditions and weather updates before departing.
• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with proper tyre inflation and all necessary fluids topped up.
• Bring essential items such as a valid driver's licence, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
• Carry an emergency kit that includes a first aid kit, basic repair tools, a torch, and a fully charged mobile phone with a charger.
• Stay alert and well-rested. Driving while fatigued can be dangerous. Consider travelling with a companion who can take turns driving if needed.
• Obey all traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits and road signs. Familiarise yourself with local driving customs and rules if you are not accustomed to driving in the region.
• Plan your border crossing in advance. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as passports and visas, for all passengers.
• When crossing the border, you may need to switch to purchasing vehicle insurance for the country you are entering.
• Allow plenty of time for the border crossing process, as it can sometimes take longer than expected.
• Be prepared for potential delays or road construction along the way.
• Consider downloading a navigation app or using a GPS device to help with directions and traffic updates.
• Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and be mindful of large trucks or vehicles that may have limited visibility.
• Take regular breaks to stay alert. Dhahran, located about an hour from Bahrain, is a good place to stop for the night if you are splitting the journey over two days.
• Always drive with your seatbelt fastened, and ensure all passengers do the same.
• Be aware of potential cultural differences and local laws when driving in a new country. For example, in some countries, driving etiquette and rules may differ from what you are used to.
• Keep yourself informed about any potential security risks or travel warnings for the areas you will be driving through.
• If you encounter any problems or breakdowns, it is advisable to contact the local authorities or a trusted roadside assistance service for help.
• Ensure you have sufficient funds or a valid payment method for any tolls or parking fees you may encounter.
• Keep a record of important contact information, including emergency services, your accommodation details, and the contact details of your embassy or consulate.

Frequently asked questions