Smart Money-Saving Strategies For Expats In Bahrain

Bahrain is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike, known for its vibrant and luxurious offerings. However, with a little planning and some insider knowledge, it is possible to enjoy the country on a budget. Here are some tips to save money while experiencing the beauty and culture of Bahrain.

Record expenses

Recording your expenses is a vital step in saving money. It allows you to track your spending patterns and identify areas where you can cut back. Here are some tips to effectively record your expenses while living in Bahrain:

Use a Notebook or Mobile App

Carry a small notebook with you wherever you go, and jot down all your expenses, no matter how small. Alternatively, you can use one of the many budgeting apps available on your mobile phone, such as YNAB, which is recommended by a Bahrain resident. These apps can automatically categorise your transactions and provide you with helpful insights and budgets.

Break Down Your Expenses

Be sure to categorise your expenses to gain a better understanding of your spending habits. Divide your expenses into categories such as food, transportation, bills, entertainment, and so on. This will allow you to identify which areas are taking up the most significant portions of your budget and help you set more realistic spending limits.

Consistency is key when it comes to recording expenses. Make it a daily habit to jot down your expenses or update your budgeting app. At the end of each week, review your expenses to identify any unnecessary spending. Over time, this practice will help you become more mindful of your spending habits and motivate you to stick to your budget.

Be Mindful of Hidden Fees

When recording expenses in Bahrain, be aware of hidden fees that can quickly add up. For example, there is typically a 1 dinar (~$2.65) fee upon checkout at any grocery store, and small added fees for calling a taxi instead of hailing one from the street. By being mindful of these extra charges, you can make more informed decisions and choose cost-effective alternatives.

Compare Prices

Recording expenses is not just about tracking your spending but also about finding ways to save. Compare prices at different stores and markets to find the best deals. Bahrain's local markets or souqs offer unique and affordable items, and bargaining is common, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices. Additionally, look out for discounts and promotions offered by restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues, especially on their websites and social media platforms.

By diligently recording your expenses and following these tips, you'll be well on your way to saving money and achieving your financial goals in Bahrain.

Rent a car instead of joining a tour

Renting a car in Bahrain is a great way to save money and see more of the country. With car rental prices starting from as little as $12 a day, it's a much more affordable option than joining an organised tour, which can cost upwards of $120. Plus, with gas at around $1 per gallon, you'll have plenty of fuel to explore all of Bahrain's beautiful sights at your own pace.

When renting a car in Bahrain, you'll have the freedom to drive wherever and whenever you like, without being restricted by tour schedules. You can easily pick up your rental car from convenient locations in Riffa or the capital city of Manama. Keep in mind that the minimum age to rent a car in Bahrain is 18, and you'll need to have held your driver's license for at least one year.

As you embark on your self-guided tour of Bahrain, you'll be pleased to know that the country has well-maintained roads and highways, making it easy to get around. Driving in Bahrain follows the same rules as in the United States, with vehicles driving on the right-hand side of the road. All road signs are posted in both English and Arabic, making navigation a breeze.

One of the benefits of having your own rental car is the ability to discover hidden gems that organised tours might not include. Bahrain has a plethora of attractions, from the historic Bahrain National Museum and the Al Fateh Grand Mosque to the natural beauty of Hawar Island, offering jet-skiing, biking, golfing, and spa treatments.

So, instead of joining a tour, opt for a car rental to explore Bahrain at your leisure. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have the freedom to create your own itinerary and discover the country's beauty and culture at your own pace.

Eat out less

Eating out is one of the biggest expenses for many people, and Bahrain is no exception. The country is known for its vibrant and luxurious destinations, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money on dining out. Here are some tips to help you save money by eating out less while still enjoying the delicious cuisine Bahrain has to offer:

Cook at Home:

The most effective way to save money is to cook and eat at home. Plan your meals, create a grocery list, and stick to it. Cooking at home is generally much cheaper than dining out, and it also gives you control over the quality and nutritional value of your food.

Explore Local Eateries and Street Food:

Bahrain has a diverse food scene, with influences from Persian, Sumerian, Assyrian, and British cultures, among others. Instead of opting for expensive restaurants, explore local eateries and street food vendors serving authentic Bahraini cuisine. These options often provide delicious and budget-friendly meals.

Buy Groceries in Bulk:

To make cooking at home more economical, consider buying non-perishable food items and staples in bulk. This will not only save you money but also reduce the number of trips you make to the grocery store, cutting down on those extra fees.

Utilize Leftovers:

Cooking at home can sometimes result in leftovers. Instead of letting them go to waste, repurpose them into new meals. This will reduce your food waste and save you money by providing an extra meal or two.

Indulge in Specialties at Home:

If you have a craving for a particular dish or want to try something new, consider recreating it at home. Look for recipes online or ask friends and family for tips. This way, you can enjoy your favorite Bahraini specialties without the restaurant price tag.

Pack Lunch:

If you usually eat out during lunch breaks, consider packing a lunch from home. This will not only save you money but also give you more control over your nutrition and portion sizes.

Remember, eating out less doesn't mean sacrificing taste or cultural experiences. By being mindful of your spending and utilizing the tips above, you can enjoy Bahrain's culinary delights while sticking to your budget.

Take public transport

Taking public transport is a great way to save money in Bahrain. While the island's small size means that getting used to transport options will take some time, the cost-effective and well-connected bus system makes it easy to get around.

The primary mode of public transport in Bahrain is the bus. The Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) operates buses with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a flat-rate fare system. Bus terminals across the island are increasingly air-conditioned, and buses are plentiful, covering just about anywhere you would need to go.

The complex bus system can be challenging to navigate, but the Bahrain Bus app is available to download, making it much easier to get around. This app will help you figure out the best routes and connections to get to your destination. Alternatively, you can speak to staff at the bus stations for assistance.

Fares can be paid using a GO Card, which can be topped up using machines on buses or at stations. This is the cheapest and easiest payment method for the buses.

In addition to the bus system, ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also popular and affordable options in Bahrain. These can be more convenient than regular taxis as you can manually set your location via your phone GPS.

Visit free attractions

Bahrain is an island with several free attractions. Here are some ideas for free things to do when visiting Bahrain:

• Explore the city's numerous parks , such as Al Dar Islands, and public spaces that offer beautiful scenery and free entertainment.
• Visit cultural sites like The Al Fateh Grand Mosque and The Bahrain National Museum, which are often free or have minimal entrance fees.
• Check out the Tree of Life, a simple tree that is hundreds of years old and considered a historic landmark.
• Wander around the Bahrain F1 International Circuit, which is free to visit when there isn't a race going on.
• Explore the narrow streets and alleyways of Manama Souk in Old Manama, where you can find traders selling spices, perfumes, gold, and sheesha bottles.
• Visit the Royal Camel Farm, which is open to the public every day from 8 am to 5 pm and is free to enter. Here, you can see camels owned by the royal family and even feed the baby camels.
• Stroll through the Bab el-Bahrain Souk, a market in Manama where you can purchase a variety of items such as gold jewellery, spices, clothing, bags, and luggage.

Frequently asked questions