Riding Buses In Bahrain: A Beginner's Guide

Bahrain has an extensive bus network, with over 500 bus stops and 29 bus routes served by 141 buses daily, connecting various areas across the country. The primary mode of public transport in Bahrain is by bus, and it is a convenient and affordable way to get around the country. In this article, we will discuss how to ride the bus in Bahrain, including information on bus routes, schedules, and payment methods.

Fares and payment methods

The bus network in Bahrain is operated by the Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC). Fares can be paid using a GO Card or by purchasing a ticket from the driver. The GO Card is a stored-value card that can be used to ride public buses. It is the simplest, cheapest, and easiest payment method for the buses. With a GO Card, you can board buses faster as you just need to check in using the ticket machines. The machine will automatically deduct the correct fare when you check in. The fare for a single trip is 250 fils. Once your total fare reaches the daily cap of 600 fils, you can take additional trips for free for the rest of the day.

You can buy a GO Card at any of the ticket offices in Manama, Muharraq, and Isa Town, or through the ticket vending machines located in bus terminals, Bahrain International Airport, and the University of Bahrain. The first time you buy a GO Card, there is an initial fee of 500 fils. After that, you can reload your card with any amount, up to a maximum credit of BD 50. You can reload your card through the ticket offices, ticket vending machines, or the reloading machines on buses.

In addition to single tickets and GO Cards, there are also day passes and monthly passes available. A day pass costs 600 fils and includes unlimited trips within the same day. A monthly pass costs 12 BHD or 14 BD and includes unlimited trips for 28 days.

Bus routes and timetables

The Bahrain Public Transport Company operates over 20 bus routes across the country, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to get around. The bus network runs daily from 5 am to 11 pm, with some routes operating until midnight on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

To plan your journey, you can refer to the bus route maps and timetables provided by the transport company. These timetables are available online and can be accessed by clicking or scanning the QR code on their website. Additionally, display screens at vital locations and QR codes at all bus stops provide real-time bus arrival information.

• Manama - Dragon City
• Manama - North Juffair
• Manama - Saar, The Atrium
• Isa Town - University of Bahrain
• Manama - Exhibition World Bahrain
• Muharraq - Manama - Salmaniya Hospital
• Manama - Al Fateh Corniche - Manama (operating on Fridays and Saturdays only)

You can also download the Bahrain Public Transport Company's app, which provides information on bus routes, trip schedules, and the use of public buses. This app is likely to be the most up-to-date and reliable source of information for your bus journeys.

Navigating the bus system

Bahrain's bus network is extensive, with over 500 bus stops and 29 routes served by 141 buses daily, connecting various areas across the kingdom. The system is managed by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and operated by the Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC).

Planning your journey

To plan your journey, you can download the 'Bahrain Bus' app or use the journey planner tool on the Bahrain Bus website. The app allows you to view routes, see live bus times, and top up your GO Card.

Fares and tickets

The bus fare for a single trip is 250 fils. You can pay for your trip using a GO Card or purchase a single ticket from the driver. The GO Card is a stored-value card that you can use to ride public buses in Bahrain. It offers a faster and more convenient way to board the bus, as you simply need to check in using the ticket machines, and the correct fare will be automatically deducted from your card.

There are various benefits to using a GO Card. In addition to quicker boarding, you won't need to worry about carrying exact change, and you can save money by transferring to another bus, as "end-to-end" journeys are cheaper.

You can buy a GO Card at ticket offices in Manama, Muharraq, and Isa Town, or through ticket vending machines located in bus terminals, Bahrain International Airport, and the University of Bahrain. The initial cost of the card is 500 fils, and you can then reload it with any amount up to a maximum credit of BD 50. Reloading can be done at ticket offices, ticket vending machines, or reloading machines on buses.

On the bus

When the bus arrives, indicate clearly that you want it to stop. Board the bus using the front door and either check in with your GO Card or purchase a ticket from the driver. Find a seat and, when you need to get off, use the bell to signal to the driver that you want the bus to stop at the upcoming bus stop. When you get off, leave through the front or centre door, being careful to watch out for cars and pedestrians.

Additional tips

• The bus system can be complex to navigate, and route maps may be difficult to understand. The 'Bahrain Bus' app can be very helpful in this regard.
• If you plan to use the bus service regularly, consider purchasing a Monthly Pass for BD 14, which allows you to travel as many times as you want within a month.
• There is also a day pass available for 600 fils, which includes unlimited trips within the same day.
• If you prefer more personalised assistance, you can speak to a staff member at the bus station for help with planning your journey.

On-board experience and rules

When riding a bus in Bahrain, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Firstly, all buses in Bahrain are air-conditioned, and an increasing number of bus terminals are also air-conditioned, making your wait more comfortable. Free WiFi is available onboard, so you can stay connected during your ride.

When boarding the bus, always use the front door. If you have a GO Card, simply tap your card on the readers onboard, and the system will automatically deduct the fare. The GO Card is a stored-value card that makes travelling by bus more convenient and affordable. It saves you the trouble of carrying exact change and also allows you to transfer to another bus at a cheaper rate. If you don't have a GO Card, you can purchase a ticket from the driver.

Once you're on the bus, find an available seat and make yourself comfortable. If you need to get off at the next stop, use the bell to signal to the driver. When it's time to disembark, exit through the front or centre door, being mindful of any cars or pedestrians that may be nearby.

It's worth noting that the bus system in Bahrain can be complex to navigate, and route maps may not always be easy to understand. To make your life easier, you can download the Bahrain Bus app, which will help you plan your journey, view routes, and check live bus times. Alternatively, you can speak to staff at the bus station for assistance.

Comparing with other transport options

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around Bahrain, especially when compared to other transport options. While driving is another option, it can be expensive, and traffic can be a problem. The island's small size makes it easier to adjust to the local transport system, but it can still be challenging for newcomers.

Public transport options in Bahrain are limited, and the bus system can be complex to navigate, with route maps that are difficult to understand. However, the availability of the Bahrain Bus app makes trip planning much more manageable.

Taxis are another option, and they are reliable and plentiful in the main city centres, especially outside the airport, shopping malls, and tourist attractions. All taxis are required to use a meter, and you can also book a taxi on-demand. However, taxis can be relatively expensive, and drivers may refuse to take you to certain areas, especially through military checkpoints.

Ridesharing services like Uber are also available in Bahrain and can be cheaper than regular taxis. The benefit of using Uber is that you know the fare in advance.

For those who prefer to use public transportation, riding the bus in Bahrain is a good option. It is convenient, affordable, and well-equipped, providing a high level of safety and customer service. With over 20 bus routes, the Bahrain Public Transport Company links the various governorates, ensuring you can get to your destination with ease.

Frequently asked questions