Bahrain Navy Base: A Comfortable Home For Families?

If you're considering relocating to a Navy base in Bahrain, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll need to be prepared for the climate and cultural differences. It's also important to understand the housing situation and the resources available to you. When it comes to housing, you will be assigned temporary lodging for up to 45 days, and you will need to report to the Housing Service Center, which provides various services such as market information, contract administration, and lease review. You will be residing on the local economy, and rent is paid in Bahraini Dinars. There are different housing types to choose from, and you can select any place on the island that is not on the off-limits list, as long as it is safe. Overall, living on a Navy base in Bahrain can be a unique and interesting experience, but it's important to do your research and be prepared for the potential challenges.

Housing: Temporary lodging is provided for up to 45 days, and there are resources to help with finding permanent housing

When it comes to housing, the Navy base in Bahrain offers various options and resources to assist those relocating. Temporary lodging is provided for up to 45 days for individuals or families who are transitioning. It is important to make reservations for this temporary housing through Navy Gateway Inns and Suites Bahrain, ensuring that you specify whether you are arriving alone or with family, as there is a significant price difference between a single room and a family room.

Upon arrival, individuals must report to the Housing Service Center with the necessary documentation, including a copy of their orders and a certificate of non-availability of US Government lodging. The Housing Service Center is a valuable resource, offering a wide range of services to aid in finding permanent housing. They provide detailed market information on local areas, rental housing options, contract administration services, lease reviews, and even mediation with landlords if needed.

The Center assists personnel in securing off-base residences, as all personnel will reside in the local economy, with the exception of E4 and below, who will reside in Unaccompanied Housing (UH)/Barracks onboard NSA Bahrain. It is recommended that individuals or families staying in off-base hotels have at least $3500 for individual lodging or $5500 for family lodging to cover the first 20 days of accommodation.

Housing options in Bahrain vary, including apartment buildings, three-story flats, and villas or villa compounds. Members can choose their preferred housing location on the island, provided it is not on the off-limits list, and the Residential Security Team will determine the safety of the chosen residence. Areas like Juffair, Adliya, Hoora, Um-Al Hassam, Hidd, Arad, Galali, and Amwaj are common locations for Americans.

Additionally, there are different lease options available, including long-term one-year leases and short-term month-to-month leases for those needing temporary accommodations until their household goods arrive. The Overseas Housing Rental and utility allowance covers the cost of rent and utilities for military personnel, while Department of Defense civilians receive a Living Quarters Allowance (LQA) based on their pay grade.

Cost of living: Rent is paid in Bahraini Dinars, and there are various allowances and entitlements provided to cover costs

Cost of Living in Naval Support Activity Bahrain

If you are relocating to Naval Support Activity Bahrain, you will be provided with temporary lodging for up to 45 days. All reservations must be made through Navy Gateway Inns and Suites Bahrain. It is important to inform them if you are arriving with family, as there is a significant difference between a single room and a family room.

Upon arrival, you must report to the Housing Service Center, which provides a range of services to assist you in securing off-base housing. Rent is paid in Bahraini Dinars, not US Dollars. The Center will provide you with detailed market information on local areas, housing options, and lease administration services.

The Center recommends that individuals or families required to stay in off-base hotels have at least $3500 (individual) or $5500 (family) to cover the first 20 days of accommodation. You will need to submit a TLA/TLE reimbursement every 10 days, and it can take up to 10 working days to receive the reimbursement.

Overseas Housing Rental and utility allowance is provided and is sufficient to cover the cost of rent and utilities for all military personnel. Department of Defense civilians receive a Living Quarters Allowance (LQA) determined by their pay grade. All DOD civilians and paid E-5 and above are required to reside off-base. PCS military personnel will receive an Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA).

Safety: The Residential Security Team determines if a residence is safe for tenants

The Residential Security Team plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants looking to live off-base in Bahrain. This dedicated team is tasked with evaluating and inspecting potential residences to give individuals and families peace of mind.

When it comes to safety, the team considers various factors to determine if a house or apartment is suitable and secure for tenants to move into. They assess the physical structure, the surrounding neighbourhood, and even the specific area within the community. Their expertise lies in identifying potential security risks and ensuring that the chosen residence meets the required safety standards.

The team's inspection process is comprehensive and meticulous. They conduct thorough inspections of the property, checking for any vulnerabilities or potential security risks. This includes assessing the property's proximity to secure areas, the reliability of local utilities, and the overall safety of the neighbourhood. By conducting these inspections, the team ensures that tenants can live and work with the assurance that their well-being is a top priority.

Additionally, the Residential Security Team provides valuable insights and guidance to tenants. They offer advice on safety measures, such as recommended security practices and any specific security concerns related to the area. This empowers tenants to make informed decisions about their living arrangements and empowers them to actively contribute to their safety and security.

The team's determination of a residence's safety is a critical step in the housing process. Once a residence has been deemed safe, tenants can proceed with the necessary steps to finalise their move, including lease signings and move-in arrangements. This process ensures that safety remains a key priority throughout the transition to living off-base in Bahrain.

Amenities: Some apartments come with a pool, BBQ pit, and a maid

When it comes to amenities, some apartments near the Bahrain Navy Base offer luxurious features that can enhance your living experience. Here are some details to consider:

Pools

Some apartments come with the convenience of a pool, providing a great opportunity for relaxation and recreation. Imagine taking a refreshing dip after a long day or hosting poolside gatherings with friends and family. This amenity can be a wonderful addition to your living space, especially in the warmer months.

BBQ Pits

If you enjoy outdoor cooking and socialising, having a BBQ pit in your apartment complex can be a fantastic bonus. It allows you to host gatherings, socialise with neighbours, and prepare delicious grilled meals. It adds a unique dimension to your entertainment options and can be a great way to build a sense of community.

Maid Services

A few apartments even include maid services as a standard offering. This means you can benefit from having a dedicated professional to help maintain your living space. Maids can assist with cleaning, laundry, and other household tasks, making your life easier and giving you more time to focus on your work, family, or leisure activities.

These amenities—pools, BBQ pits, and maid services—are certainly attractive features that can elevate your living experience near the Bahrain Navy Base. They offer both convenience and a sense of luxury, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Remember to inquire about specific apartment offerings, as these amenities may vary, ensuring that you can make the most of your time in Bahrain.

Travel: There are Space-Available flights back to the States

Travel: Space-Available Flights

If you are a dependent of an active-duty service member, you are eligible for Space-Available travel. These flights are typically free of charge and can be a great way to get back to the States. However, they are subject to seat availability, so it's important to be flexible with your travel dates.

Space-A flights are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, and you may have to sign up for a flight at the last minute. It's important to be prepared and have all the necessary documentation with you when signing up for a flight. This includes a valid ID card, orders, and any other relevant paperwork.

The Space-A terminal in Bahrain is located at the Naval Support Activity Bahrain (NSA Bahrain) base. When arriving at the terminal, you will need to present your ID card and orders to the transportation office, who will then assist you in finding a flight. It is recommended to arrive early at the terminal to increase your chances of getting a seat.

Keep in mind that Space-A flights are not always direct and may involve multiple stops and layovers. This can add significant time to your travel, so be prepared for a potentially lengthy journey. Additionally, there may be restrictions on the amount of baggage you can bring, so pack accordingly.

Overall, Space-Available flights can be a great option for those looking to travel back to the States from Bahrain. With some flexibility and advance preparation, you can take advantage of these flights to make your journey home more convenient and affordable.

Frequently asked questions