Expats In Bahrain: Is This Country Safe?

Bahrain is considered a safe place for expats, with low crime rates and rare instances of violent crime. However, it is important to remain vigilant, as burglary, petty theft, and robberies are common. The roads are filled with reckless drivers, and it is advised to avoid driving at night as local drivers tend to drive without headlights. There is also a moderate risk of terrorism, with previous attacks in public places. Additionally, women travellers should be aware of cultural differences and dress modestly in public places. Overall, Bahrain offers a relaxed and cosmopolitan culture, making it a popular destination for expats.

Women's safety

Women travelling alone in Bahrain 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 laws.

Women should keep in mind the cultural differences in Bahrain and dress accordingly. It is advised that women cover their arms and legs in public, and avoid wearing expensive jewellery or flashing items such as hi-tech devices and cameras.

However, Bahrain seems to be very safe for solo female travellers. Basic precaution measures should be taken to minimize the risk of anything going wrong. It is recommended to only use reputable taxis to get around Manama and other towns in Bahrain, as there have been reports of unlicensed cab drivers harassing women at night.

While there are no trains in Bahrain, pickpocketing is a serious problem, especially in public, crowded areas such as airports. It is advised to keep your eyes open and keep your valuables close by your side.

Women should also be aware of the heightened risk of terrorism in Bahrain. Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate and take place in public places, including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques.

Terrorism risk

There is a moderate risk of terrorism in Bahrain, with a history of attacks in the Gulf region in recent years. Terrorist groups are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain, and these could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Previous attacks have used explosive devices in public places, killing and injuring people.

Targets may include government buildings, schools, airports, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, tourist sites, and public areas such as restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels, and other sites frequented by foreigners. Western interests in and around Manama could also be targeted.

It is recommended to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times, especially during high-profile events and when near large demonstrations. Monitor local and international media to stay informed of the evolving situation, and follow the instructions of local authorities. Increased security measures are currently in place and may be reinforced at short notice.

Transport safety

Bahrain's roads are of very good quality, but drivers are often aggressive and reckless. Illegal manoeuvres and accidents are common, and seatbelts are rarely worn by locals. It is not unusual to see children lying on dashboards or with their heads stuck out of sunroofs while travelling at high speeds on the motorway. Drivers may also stop in lay-bys to pray.

Roaming animals and drifting sands can pose hazards, and off-road driving is hazardous. It is recommended to only go off-road driving in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles and with an experienced guide.

Public transport is limited, with a small number of erratic and ancient buses that are not used by Western expats. Private companies operate bus services to schools.

Taxis are generally considered safe, but it is advised to only use reputable taxi companies. There have been reports of unlicensed cab drivers harassing women at night. Unlicensed vehicles also overcharge, don't have meters and are in poor driving condition.

There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally, and terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain. Transport hubs are possible targets. Previous attacks have killed and injured people, although there has not been a successful attack for several years.

Piracy is also a risk for anyone travelling by sea in the Gulf.

Crime rate

Bahrain is generally considered safe for expats, with a low crime rate and rare instances of violent crime. However, it is important to remain vigilant, especially when it comes to petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching. Burglaries and robberies are also common, so it is crucial to take precautions to protect your belongings.

When going out, avoid wearing expensive jewellery or displaying valuable items like high-tech devices and cameras. It is recommended to use a money belt and be cautious with passports and other important documents. Utilise the safe provided by your accommodation to store any valuables.

Transport in Bahrain is considered unsafe due to reckless drivers who frequently cause accidents. It is advised to avoid driving at night as local drivers often drive without headlights. Additionally, only use reputable taxi companies, as there have been reports of unlicensed cab drivers harassing women and overcharging passengers.

Terrorism poses a moderate risk in Bahrain, with terrorist groups plotting possible attacks. Targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. Visitors should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially in public places frequented by foreigners.

When visiting old market areas (souks), villages, and poorer districts, exercise caution, especially after dark. Demonstrations and protests occur regularly and can turn violent, with participants throwing rocks and using explosive devices. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Overall, while Bahrain has a relatively low crime rate, it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your belongings.

Local customs and laws

Bahrain is considered one of the most liberal Gulf States, but it is important to respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.

Clothing

Modest dress is advised, with shoulders and knees covered. Clothing with offensive pictures or slogans should be avoided. Nudity is forbidden, including topless sunbathing. During Ramadan, modesty is promoted and dressing conservatively is even more important.

Religion

Islamic religious values are respected in Bahrain and any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is deeply offensive and will likely lead to a heavy fine or prison sentence. During Ramadan, it is important to not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public during the daytime, play loud music or dance. Driving may be erratic at this time, especially at dusk, and tiredness is common in the later afternoon and early evening.

Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol is legal in Bahrain, but drunken public behaviour is against the law and can result in a fine, imprisonment or deportation. Illegal drugs are strictly forbidden, even in residual amounts, and can lead to a prison sentence and deportation.

Transport

It is advised to only use reputable taxi companies. The roads are filled with reckless drivers who cause accidents regularly, and local drivers tend to drive without headlights at night.

Frequently asked questions