Bahrain's Tourism: Open For Exploration And Adventure

Bahrain is open to tourists, but travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism and civil unrest. Tourists are advised to be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times. There is also a risk of airspace closures, flight cancellations, and other travel disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Tourists are advised to monitor local and international media to stay informed about the evolving situation.

Entry requirements

Passports and Visas

To enter Bahrain, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date you expect to leave the country. If you are a dual Bahraini/UK national, the authorities may require you to enter and exit Bahrain on a Bahraini travel document only.

You must have a visa to visit Bahrain. You can apply for a two-week tourist visa at the Bahrain eVisa website or upon arrival. Visas for stays of up to six months are also available. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a ten-year multiple-entry visa through the Bahrain embassy. Journalism visas must be obtained in advance of travel.

Work Permits

You cannot start employment in Bahrain if you enter on a visit visa. To work in Bahrain, you must have a local identification card and a valid work permit, as well as a signed employment contract before arriving. Do not work in Bahrain on a tourist visa. The Bahraini authorities will hold you personally liable if you do not have a valid work permit.

Health Requirements

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Bahrain. However, there are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the country. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

To enter Bahrain, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

Other Entry Requirements

If you are a woman travelling alone, be aware that you may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Women have been detained when reporting sexual assault, as they must prove that the sex was not consensual to avoid being charged under extramarital sex statutes.

Bahrain does not recognise dual nationality, and authorities may seize extra passports if they find them. Charges may be laid, including imprisonment if you hold a second nationality without permission from the relevant Bahraini authorities.

Safety and security

The UK Foreign Office, US State Department, Australian Government, and Canadian Government advise tourists to exercise a high degree of caution in Bahrain due to the threat of terrorism and the risk of civil unrest. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time, and targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. It is recommended to be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities, as well as to monitor local media and security developments.

There is also a risk of civil unrest and political tension in the region, with ongoing conflicts in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories that could lead to increased tensions and potential attacks on Israeli interests. Demonstrations and protests can occur at any time and place, and even peaceful gatherings can turn violent without warning. It is advised to avoid all demonstrations and protests, stay alert in locations frequented by tourists and Westerners, and be aware of your surroundings.

In terms of crime, the overall level of crime in Bahrain is low, but there is a risk of pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in old market areas (souks). It is recommended to take normal precautions to protect your belongings and follow common sense security measures.

When it comes to local laws and customs, it is important to respect religious and cultural sensitivities, especially during Ramadan and Shia religious festivals. Dress conservatively in public places, particularly religious sites, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan. It is also illegal to possess or consume alcohol in public, and there are strict laws against drugs, with heavy penalties for possession, use, or trafficking.

For road travel, it is generally safe, but drivers are often aggressive, and there are issues with unsafe driving practices such as speeding. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, though it is very common. There may also be roaming animals and drifting sands on the roads, which can pose hazards.

When it comes to maritime travel, there is a curfew on the waterways around Bahrain from 6:30 pm to 4:00 am, and vessels entering these waters may be detained and inspected. There have also been occasional arrests, so it is important to have the necessary clearances before entering these waters.

Overall, while Bahrain is open to tourists, it is important to stay vigilant and follow the recommended safety and security precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Local laws and customs

Bahrain is an Islamic country with laws based on the teachings of the Quran. It is forbidden to attempt to convert a Muslim to another religion, and non-Muslims should be aware that open displays of non-Muslim beliefs may be seen as offensive.

Photography is another area where cultural sensitivities apply. It is best to ask before taking photos, especially of women, and photographing sensitive buildings such as military installations is forbidden.

Some hotels will refuse entry to couples who do not appear to be married, and public displays of affection are likely to offend. Homosexuality is considered an offence.

Bahrain has a zero-tolerance policy towards drink driving, and there are very strict penalties for drug offences, which can result in the death penalty.

All residents and visitors must carry photographic ID. Offensive language, spitting and aggressive behaviour are viewed as seriously offensive and can result in imprisonment and deportation.

During the holy month of Ramadan, it is forbidden to eat, drink, smoke, play loud music and dance in public places during daylight hours, and this applies to non-Muslims as well as Muslims.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Health

As of February 2022, Bahrain has lifted all COVID-related restrictions, and international tourists are welcome under similar rules as in pre-pandemic times. However, it is important to note that travel rules may change at short notice due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

To ensure you stay healthy during your trip to Bahrain, there are several precautions you should take. Here is a comprehensive guide on health and safety during your visit:

• Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date before travelling. This includes vaccinations such as chickenpox (Varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, and Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR). Additionally, all eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations.
• Medicine: Consult a doctor at least a month before your trip to obtain any necessary medications. If you are taking prescription medication, ensure you bring enough for your entire trip and carry it in its original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription.
• Food and Water Precautions: Food and water standards may differ from those in your home country. To avoid food and waterborne illnesses, practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands frequently.
• Insect Bites: Bugs such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas can spread diseases, so take steps to prevent insect bites. Cover exposed skin, use insect repellent, and stay in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Sun and Heat Exposure: Bahrain experiences extremely high temperatures, especially from June to August. To avoid heat stroke and dehydration, drink plenty of water, and avoid spending long periods in the heat.
• Swimming: Only swim in designated areas and obey lifeguards and warning flags. Avoid swallowing water when swimming, as untreated water may carry germs.
• Animal Contact: Avoid touching or feeding unknown animals. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately wash the wound and seek medical attention.
• Personal Safety: Bahrain has a low crime rate, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing do occur, especially in old market areas (souks). Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure.
• Medical Care: Adequate medical services are available in Bahrain, but you may have to pay upfront for treatment, and costs can be high. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
• Travel Insurance: Before travelling to Bahrain, obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers all overseas medical costs, including potential COVID-19 treatment costs.
• COVID-19 Precautions: Although Bahrain has lifted COVID-related restrictions, it is still important to follow general COVID-19 precautions, such as maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

Money and travel

The local currency in Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available in major cities. International banks are open from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, while some national banks operate between 8 am and 4 pm.

Currency Exchange

There are no restrictions on importing or exporting local or foreign currency in Bahrain. Currency can be exchanged at the airport, most hotels, banks, and bureaux de change. Exchange rates tend to be more favourable at bureaux de change than at the airport or hotels.

Using Traveller's Cheques

The use of traveller's cheques in Bahrain is becoming less common. It can be challenging to find restaurants or shops that accept them, and the exchange rate offered by hotels is often unfavourable. Banks charge a commission for this service, so it is advisable to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars to avoid additional exchange rate charges.

Using Credit and Debit Cards

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted in hotels, major stores, and restaurants. However, smaller shops may prefer cash transactions.

Revolut, a multi-currency card provider, offers a Bahraini Dinar card that can be used for spending and ATM withdrawals in Bahrain and over 150 other currencies worldwide.

Cash Withdrawals

When withdrawing cash from ATMs, it is advisable to select 'No' if given the option to convert money. This helps ensure a better exchange rate. Additionally, be mindful of potential ATM access fees charged by some providers.

Items Allowed for Duty-Free Import

For individuals aged 18 and over, the following items can be imported duty-free into Bahrain:

• 1 electronic hookah device
• 1 electronic tobacco heater
• 10 electronic cigarettes
• 50 cigars or 400 cigarettes or electronic cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco (in opened packs)
• 60ml filling for electronic hookahs
• 250g pipe tobacco
• 3 litres of alcoholic beverages
• 12 cans of beer
• Gifts worth up to 300 BHD

Prohibited and Restricted Imports

Prohibited imports include narcotics, Indian paan and derivatives, used and reconditioned tyres, cultured pearls, advertisements for cigarettes, radio-controlled model aircraft, children's toy guns, goods of Israeli origin, publications contradicting Islamic teachings, asbestos, raw ivory/ivory articles, rhinoceros horn, and live swine.

Restricted imports requiring authorisation include animals, animal products, plants, fruits and vegetables, firearms and ammunition, radioactive chemicals, films and publications, and telecommunications equipment.

Prohibited and Restricted Exports

Prohibited exports include fuel, flour, red meat, and fresh chicken bearing the trademark 'Delmon'. Restricted exports that require authorisation include palm tree seedlings and antiquities.

Transport and Driving

Road travel in Bahrain is generally safe, with well-maintained highways and major roads in the northern region. However, roads in villages and older parts of Manama and Muharraq tend to be narrow, congested, and twisting. Driving standards are variable, with speeding being common despite stiff penalties. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, although this rule is often disregarded.

In the event of a road accident, do not move the vehicle until you have filed a report with the traffic police, even for single-car accidents. For minor accidents without injuries, move the vehicle out of the way of traffic and call 199. For accidents involving injuries, call 999.

While taxis are generally safe, it is recommended to use only officially marked taxis and negotiate fares in advance or insist on using the meter to avoid overcharging.

Safety Precautions

Bahrain has a heightened risk of terrorism, with potential targets including tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. Protests and demonstrations occur regularly and can turn violent, with participants sometimes throwing rocks, Molotov cocktails, and using makeshift explosive devices. Women travelling alone may experience harassment and verbal abuse. It is advised to exercise caution, especially after dark, in old market areas, villages, and poorer districts.

The crime rate in Bahrain is generally low, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching do occur. Ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Health

The standard of medical care in Bahrain is high, but you may have to pay upfront for treatment, and costs can be significant. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all overseas medical costs, hospital stays, and medical evacuation if needed.

COVID-19

Check for any mandatory health preventative measures and entry requirements related to COVID-19 before travelling to Bahrain.

Frequently asked questions