Bahrain Vs Dubai: Which Gulf Destination Is Superior?

If you're considering relocating to the Middle East, you may be weighing up the pros and cons of Dubai and Bahrain. Both cities offer a high standard of living for expats, but which is better?

Dubai is the most popular city in the UAE, with towering skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and beautiful beaches. It has a more Western and progressive feel than Bahrain, and offers more in the way of natural scenery, with the mountainous backdrops of Jebel Jais and Jebel Hafeet. However, it is more expensive.

Bahrain, on the other hand, is made up of more than 30 artificial islands and 70 natural islands. It has a more laid-back feel than Dubai, with a mix of cultures and religions, including a big influence from India. It's also much cheaper, with consumer prices approximately 16% lower than in Dubai.

So, which is better? It depends on what you're looking for. If you want the full Middle Eastern experience, with a mix of culture, tradition, and modern conveniences, then Bahrain could be the better choice. But if you're looking for a more Westernised environment with plenty of luxury amenities, Dubai might be the better option.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Dubai is substantially cheaper when compared to other major cities such as London, New York, or Sydney. However, Bahrain is even more affordable. Consumer prices in Dubai (excluding rent) are approximately 16% higher than in Bahrain, and with rent included, they are 33% higher. The Local Purchasing Power in Dubai is 71% higher than in Bahrain. Overall, the cost of living in Dubai is 48% higher than in Bahrain. This means that to enjoy the same standard of living in Dubai as you would in Bahrain, you would need to earn nearly double the amount.

For example, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Dubai would cost around 300 AED, whereas in Bahrain, it would cost around 200 AED. Rent prices in Dubai are 155.2% higher than in Manama, Bahrain's capital city. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Dubai would cost around 8369 AED per month, while a similar apartment in Manama would cost 2965 AED.

Transportation costs are also significantly lower in Bahrain. A one-way ticket for local transport in Dubai is priced at 300 AED, while in Bahrain, it is only 126 AED. Taxi fares in Bahrain are also more affordable, with a 1-mile taxi ride costing around 29 AED, compared to 30 AED in Dubai.

Even everyday essentials are more expensive in Dubai. A gallon of milk in Dubai costs 25 AED, while in Bahrain, it is 26 AED. A loaf of fresh white bread is 12 AED in Dubai and only 11 AED in Bahrain.

These differences in prices across various categories contribute to the overall higher cost of living in Dubai compared to Bahrain.

Career opportunities

Dubai and Bahrain are both popular destinations for expats, with many relocating to the Middle East for lucrative packages and added benefits. However, there are some key differences between the two when it comes to career opportunities.

Dubai is known for its impressive infrastructure, including towering skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and gorgeous beaches. It has a population of around 3.5 million people and is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). On the other hand, Bahrain is an archipelago of more than 30 islands with a population of just 1.5 million. It is located in the Persian Gulf, about 920 kilometres from Dubai by road.

In terms of career opportunities, Dubai offers more job creation and a larger market. It has a diverse range of industries, including tourism, aviation, real estate, and finance. The city is also known for its tax-free income, which is a motivating factor for expats. However, the cost of living in Dubai is substantially higher than in Bahrain, with consumer prices (without rent) being approximately 16% higher and rent being 33% higher.

Bahrain, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed and authentic environment. It is known for its friendly and social locals, as well as its strong culture. Bahrain also has a lower cost of living than Dubai, making it a more affordable place to live. However, it has limited career opportunities, especially for senior-level positions. Bahrain's economy has also suffered in recent years due to low oil prices and political tensions between the ruling family and the majority population.

According to a survey by HSBC Expat, Bahrain ranks as the second-best place in the world for expatriate careers, just behind Germany. The survey analysed the views of over 22,000 global professionals on measures such as work-life balance, job security, career progression, employee benefits, and earning prospects. Nearly 60% of respondents said that the work culture in Bahrain was better than in their home country, and the country also scored well for job security, personal fulfilment, and career progression opportunities.

In terms of specific industries, Dubai is known for its strong tourism and hospitality sector, while Bahrain may offer more opportunities in banking and finance, particularly in Islamic finance. Additionally, Bahrain has been promoting itself as the "Silicon Valley of the Middle East", with the government offering incentives and a supportive environment for fintech and e-commerce start-ups.

Overall, both Dubai and Bahrain offer unique career opportunities, but the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and career goals. Dubai may offer more job opportunities and a diverse range of industries, but Bahrain has a lower cost of living, a strong work culture, and competitive salaries.

Things to do

When it comes to attractions, both Dubai and Bahrain offer plenty of things to keep visitors entertained. However, Dubai is known for its luxurious offerings, from world-class restaurants to gigantic shopping malls. In contrast, Bahrain provides a more relaxed and culturally immersive experience.

Dubai

• Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Beach Residence: Enjoy the sun and sea at this popular beach and residence area.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Marvel at the colourful flowers and unique garden displays.
• Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Explore the historic district and learn about Dubai's past.
• Dubai Mall: Shop till you drop in one of the largest malls in the world.
• Burj Khalifa: Visit the tallest building in the world and take in the breathtaking views.
• Belly dancing in the desert: Experience the vibrant desert culture with traditional dancing and music.
• Beach bars: Indulge in refreshing cocktails and lively atmospheres at Dubai's beachfront bars.

Bahrain

• Pearl diving: Go snorkelling or diving for pearls and keep your findings as a unique souvenir.
• Shopping at Manama Souk: Haggle for ornate Indian jewellery, spices, and Bahrain pearls in this traditional market.
• Qal'at al-Bahrain: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fort with ancient architecture and stunning sea views.
• Haji's Café: Start your day with a traditional Bahraini breakfast at this popular café in Manama.
• Ritz Carlton: Experience 5-star luxury at this prestigious hotel, complete with a private beach and infinity pool.
• Muharraq: Wander through the old town of Muharraq, admiring the white stone buildings and vibrant street art.
• Al Fateh Grand Mosque: Admire the beautiful architecture and intricate designs of this mosque.
• Bahrain National Museum: Discover the history and culture of Bahrain through artefacts and exhibits.

Whether you choose Dubai or Bahrain, you'll find a wealth of activities and experiences to enjoy. Dubai offers more opulence and modern attractions, while Bahrain provides a blend of cultural immersion, history, and local traditions.

Safety

Both Dubai and Bahrain are considered very safe places to live, with low crime rates compared to other major cities in the USA and Europe. According to Numbeo.com, the Crime Rate Index in Dubai is 16.49 and 21.99 in Bahrain, while London's is 53.19 and New York's is 47.23.

Dubai and Bahrain are also considered safe due to societal influence and strict laws to punish criminals. The Safety Scale Index in Dubai is 83.51, while Bahrain's is 78.01.

Bahrain is under tight military control, with other Gulf States concerned about the influence of another power across the Gulf, which is sympathetic to the grievances of Bahrain's Shia majority. However, there have been very few "terrorist" attacks in Bahrain in the last five to ten years, and tourists and foreigners are not typically targeted.

One person who lived in Dubai for five years and has lived in Bahrain for five years says that Dubai is safer than Bahrain, but that "you as an expat are unlikely to experience anything".

Law Enforcement

One source mentions that Dubai has strict laws to punish criminals, and another mentions that Dubai is under the rule of law.

Sectarian Violence

Bahrain is said to be capable of contrasts and surprises that Dubai is not, or at least was not ten years ago. The source describes a pleasant, quiet, and familiar feel to Bahrain, but also mentions being tear-gassed on the fringe of a sectarian riot.

Bahrain's local population is divided about 70% Shia and 30% Sunni, with the 30% Sunni population in charge and economically better off. This has led to unrest and is an important factor when considering safety in Bahrain.

Driving

The same source that mentions Bahrain being less safe than Dubai also mentions that driving habits, roads, and traffic are worse in Bahrain.

Education

Both Bahrain and Dubai have their pros and cons when it comes to education. Here is a detailed comparison of the two places in terms of education.

Bahrain

Bahrain has a progressive and highly valued education system. The country's public school system, founded in 1932, is the oldest in the Arabian Peninsula. Public education is free for both boys and girls until secondary school, and education is compulsory for children aged 6-14. The majority of the country, 95.7%, is literate, and Bahrain has the highest female literacy rate, 93.5%, in the Arabian Peninsula. Girls and boys are educated at roughly the same rate, with 97% of girls and 98% of boys enrolled in primary school, and 91% of girls and 87% of boys attending secondary school.

Bahrain's education system is also more affordable than Dubai's. However, it is important to note that Bahrain does not spend much on education relative to other countries, ranking 153 out of 173 countries on education spending. The country is also undergoing changes to its secondary education system, splitting it into unified and vocational tracks to better prepare students for careers.

Dubai

Dubai maintains a very high standard in all its schools, colleges, and universities. However, expats must pay fees for their children's education, whether in private or public schools. Dubai also has a higher cost of living than Bahrain, which may impact the overall affordability of education.

Both Bahrain and Dubai offer strong educational opportunities, but with some key differences. Bahrain's public education system is free until secondary school, has a high literacy rate, and is more affordable than Dubai. On the other hand, Dubai's educational institutions are known for their high standards, but expats must pay fees for their children's education. Additionally, Dubai's higher cost of living may make education relatively more expensive. Therefore, when considering education, Bahrain may offer a more cost-effective option, while Dubai may be preferred for those seeking prestigious educational institutions.

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