Bahrain: A Safe Haven For Indians?

Bahrain is a small island country in the Middle East with a population of 1.4 million, of which 30% are Indian expatriates. Indians have been travelling to Bahrain as early as 3000 BC for trade, and in the last quarter of the 19th century, Indian merchants began to establish themselves in the country. Today, Bahrain is a popular destination for Indian nationals, with around 350,000 Indians living there. The country has a history of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, which has made it a favourite destination for Indian expatriates. The Indian community in Bahrain is permitted a great deal of freedom for social and religious activities, and there are several worship places for different religions, including a 200-year-old Hindu temple. The Bahraini leadership publicly acknowledges the contributions of the Indian community to the development and growth of Bahrain and has been forthcoming in ensuring their safety and welfare. However, there is a high rate of theft, scams, robbery, and other petty street crimes in the country, and tourists are advised to remain vigilant and avoid carrying too many valuables when going out.

Indians form the largest expatriate community in Bahrain

The discovery of oil in Bahrain in the 1930s led to a demand for manpower in the oil sector, which resulted in a greater number of Indian workers immigrating to the country. Following World War II and the expansion of Bahrain's economy due to the oil boom, even more Indians emigrated to start businesses and take up jobs in various sectors. By the 1950s, the Bahrain Petroleum Company, the country's sole oil company, had employed more than 600 Indians.

Today, Indians continue to play a significant role in Bahrain's economy, with over 65% of the Indian expatriate workforce employed in the construction, contracting, and maintenance sectors. There are also many Indian professionals in the country, including doctors, engineers, chartered accountants, bankers, and managers, who contribute to Bahrain's development. The Bahraini leadership acknowledges the contributions of the Indian community and has been proactive in ensuring their safety and welfare.

The Indian community in Bahrain enjoys religious tolerance and freedom to practise their social and cultural activities. There are several places of worship for different religions, including a 200-year-old Hindu temple, churches, and gurudwaras. Indian festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm, and there are numerous Indian socio-cultural associations and clubs that promote Indian art, culture, and classical dances and music. Additionally, Indian schools in Bahrain cater to the educational needs of Indian expatriates and have also gained recognition among Bahrainis.

Bahrain is safe for tourists

Bahrain is a small island country with a population of 1.4 million, 30% of whom are Indian nationals. Indians have been coming to Bahrain as early as 3000 BC, and the country has been exceptionally friendly to Indians. There are around 350,000 Indians in Bahrain, making it the largest expatriate community in the country.

Bahrain is very safe and even the salespeople in the Souk (market) are not too intrusive. One woman traveller commented that she has never felt unsafe in Bahrain. However, there is a high rate of theft, scams, robbery, and other petty street crimes, so it is important to remain vigilant and not bring too many valuables when going out.

The crime rate in Bahrain is low, and violent crime is rare. However, thieves and pickpockets are known to operate in the old market area. Common sense security precautions are effective in countering the threat of crime. Demonstrations occur regularly in specific areas and are usually peaceful and not disruptive to public order. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, during international events, at night, and on weekends. It is recommended to avoid areas around protests and demonstrations, as they can be unpredictable.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain, and targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. It is recommended to stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/Westerners and be aware of your surroundings.

When it comes to driving in Bahrain, the roads and infrastructure are good. However, driving habits are not great and cannot be compared to Western countries. It is similar to driving in Naples, Italy, so stay alert and watch your mirrors.

Bahrain has a history of religious tolerance

The country's history of religious tolerance is also reflected in its society, where there is a high degree of tolerance for minority religious beliefs and traditions. This includes the celebration of religious holidays, decorations, and foods associated with these groups, as well as the ability of adherents to produce and distribute religious media and publications. Additionally, the government has taken steps to promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation, such as through the King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Coexistence, which brings together representatives from different religious communities.

However, it is important to note that there have been some concerns and challenges regarding religious freedom in Bahrain. The constitution declares Islam as the official religion, and there have been reports of preferential treatment for Sunni Muslims over Shia Muslims in certain areas, such as government positions and the military. Additionally, there have been instances of anti-Shia and anti-Sunni sentiment on social media, and societal pressure against converting from Islam.

Nevertheless, Bahrain's history of religious tolerance is evident in its commitment to freedom of conscience, the presence of various religious groups, and the societal acceptance of minority religious beliefs and traditions.

Bahrain has a high rate of theft, scams, and robbery

Bahrain is a small island country with a population of 1.4 million, of which 30% are Indian expatriates. The Kingdom of Bahrain has been very welcoming to Indians, and the Indian community has had a significant influence on the country's social fabric. However, Bahrain has recently seen a rise in theft, scams, and robbery, which is a cause for concern for all its residents and visitors.

The country has witnessed several reported incidents of robbery and theft. For example, two men were sentenced to five years in prison for robbing an Asian man in Busaiteen. Posing as police officers, they demanded his identification and then snatched his wallet, stealing 85 dinars and a card. In another incident, a conman's double-money scam backfired, landing him in jail for seven years. There have also been reports of motorcycle thieves and luggage theft at the airport.

Scams and cybercrimes are also prevalent in Bahrain. A leading private company in Bahrain recently reported that fraudsters had stolen vital data and sought ransom. The Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) was targeted by scammers who planted malware designed to delete data. Online banking fraud has also been on the rise, with thousands of dinars lost to scammers who hack into bank accounts and fund transfer systems. Cybersecurity experts have warned that all companies are at risk, and employees must be vigilant to protect sensitive information.

In addition to cybercrimes, gold theft using online payment apps has been reported. The Indian expatriate workforce, known for their work ethic and integrity, may be particularly vulnerable to these crimes as they often work in senior or middle management positions. The Bahraini government has acknowledged the contributions of the Indian community and has been proactive in ensuring their safety and welfare. However, with the increasing incidents of theft, scams, and robbery, it is crucial for Indians in Bahrain to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Indians are preferred for employment over other nationalities

Indians are the largest expatriate community in Bahrain, with around 350,000 Indian nationals living in the country, constituting 30% of the total population. Indians have been immigrating to Bahrain for centuries, with the earliest records of Indians in Bahrain dating back to 3000 BC. In recent times, the discovery of oil in 1932 attracted many Indians to Bahrain, where they took up jobs in the oil industry and other sectors.

Today, Indians are preferred for employment over other nationalities in Bahrain due to their strong work ethic, integrity, and apolitical approach. They are known for their conduct, loyalty, higher productivity, and non-involvement in local affairs. Indian expatriates play a vital role in Bahrain's socio-economic development, with many working in the construction, contracting, and maintenance sectors. They are also well-represented in professional fields such as medicine, engineering, finance, and management.

The presence of a large Indian community in Bahrain has strengthened the relationship between the two countries and created a substantial imprint on Bahrain's social milieu. Indians enjoy goodwill and religious freedom in Bahrain, with the country accommodating their social and religious activities. The Bahraini leadership publicly acknowledges the contributions of Indians to the country's development and has taken steps to ensure their safety and welfare.

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