Bahrain's Tourist Safety: Is It A Secure Vacation Spot?

Is Bahrain Safe for Tourists?

Bahrain is a small Middle Eastern country with a low crime rate and high general safety levels. However, tourists should be mindful of the local culture and customs, and remain vigilant due to the threat of terrorism and the risk of civil unrest in the region.

Bahrain is considered a liberal country compared to its neighbours, but it is important to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions. Tourists should be aware of the conservative social views and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

While the overall crime rate is low, tourists should take precautions to protect their belongings, especially in old market areas where pickpocketing and bag-snatching occur. Terrorism is a worldwide threat, and Bahrain is no exception. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and target tourist areas or places frequented by foreigners.

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions and protests in Bahrain, affecting travel across the region.

Crime and safety

Bahrain is a very safe country, with a low crime rate and high general safety levels. However, it is important to be mindful of local culture and customs, and to respect them. The country has strict laws and severe penalties for anyone who breaks them, so it is crucial to be aware of and follow the local laws.

Crime

The overall crime rate in Bahrain is low, but there are some issues with pickpocketing and bag snatching, particularly in old market areas (souks). It is recommended to take normal precautions to protect your belongings and to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Unlicensed taxis have also been known to overcharge passengers, so it is advisable to use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem instead.

There aren't many scams in Bahrain, but one thing to look out for is fake goods being sold as "genuine" in the Manama souq. Many stalls sell these fake goods openly, so it is best to be wary.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Bahrain, as terrorist groups continue to plot possible attacks. These attacks could target tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities. It is important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, especially in locations frequented by tourists or Westerners. The local security situation could deteriorate with little notice, so it is important to monitor local media and follow the advice of authorities.

Civil Unrest and Political Tension

Bahrain also faces a risk of civil unrest and political tension, with protests and clashes occurring throughout the country since 2011. These demonstrations can turn violent and cause disruptions to traffic and roadblocks. It is important to avoid all demonstrations and protests, and to follow the advice of local authorities.

The security situation in the region is unpredictable and could deteriorate quickly. The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions and an increased threat of attacks against Israeli interests across the region.

Local Laws and Customs

It is important to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions in Bahrain. This includes dressing conservatively, particularly when visiting religious sites, and refraining from public displays of affection. Same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults over the age of 21 is not prohibited by law, but public displays of affection can cause offence and are illegal.

Additionally, it is illegal to drink alcohol in public or behave drunkenly, and doing so could result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation. Bahrain also has strict rules around getting into debt, zero tolerance for stealing, and severe penalties for drug offences, including the death penalty in some cases.

Overall, Bahrain is a safe country to visit, but it is important to be mindful of local culture and customs, and to stay informed about potential security risks.

Terrorism

Bahrain faces a high threat of terrorist attacks, which could be indiscriminate and occur in places visited by foreigners. Previous attacks using explosive devices in public places have resulted in deaths and injuries. Terrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, targeting residential compounds, military and transport interests, oil facilities, public places (including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres, and mosques), and government and critical infrastructure.

To ensure safety, it is recommended to enrol in a travel advisory program, such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency. Additionally, staying informed about the latest travel advisories and security reports, as well as following the Department of State on social media, can help travellers stay aware of potential risks.

While Bahrain faces a high threat of terrorism, the overall crime rate in the country is low. However, tourists should still take necessary precautions to protect their belongings and be cautious when visiting old market areas (souks), which are known for pickpocketing and bag-snatching incidents.

In summary, while Bahrain faces a significant threat of terrorism, tourists can take steps to enhance their safety by staying vigilant, enrolling in travel advisory programs, and following local authorities' instructions. The country's overall low crime rate and proactive security measures contribute to a safer environment for visitors.

Civil unrest

Bahrain has been described as a very safe country, with a low crime rate and high general safety levels. However, it is important to be mindful of the local culture and respect religious and cultural sensitivities. The country has strict laws and severe penalties for anyone who breaks them, so tourists should be aware of the laws in Bahrain to ensure they do not break any.

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning. Public protests and events that draw groups of people can turn violent, and even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent without warning. Since 2011, protests and clashes have occurred throughout Bahrain, including in Shia-majority villages. Security forces sometimes use force to disperse protesters, and demonstrations can result in blockages to roads, highways, and other routes, including to or from the airport. Public rallies and meetings of large groups without the permission of the authorities are illegal, and tourists could face legal action if they join them. If caught up in unrest, authorities could arrest you.

The risk of protest can increase around anniversaries of significant events in Bahrain and can start with little warning. Locations of past protests include the Budaiya Highway and surrounding villages. It is recommended to leave the area if you see a large public gathering or demonstration and to follow the advice of local authorities.

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in Bahrain and other locations in the Middle East. There is an increased threat of attacks against Israeli interests across the region. The local security situation could deteriorate with little notice.

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain, and these could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Previous attacks using explosive devices in public places have killed and injured people. Targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities.

Healthcare

Bahrain has a universal healthcare system, established in 1960. Government-provided healthcare is free for citizens and subsidised for non-citizens. According to the World Health Organization, healthcare expenditure accounts for 4.5% of Bahrain's GDP. The country's health sector is primarily served by Bahraini physicians and nurses, unlike its neighbouring Gulf states.

The Health Insurance Law, No. 23 of 2018, came into force on 1 December 2018, establishing the National Health Regulatory Authority and a dedicated health insurance fund. The law mandates that all nationals, residents, and visitors must have health insurance, with employers paying contributions for their foreign employees and, in some cases, their dependents. Foreign visitors are covered for emergency healthcare, although the cost of visas will reflect this.

The first hospital in Bahrain, the American Mission Hospital, was established in 1893 as a dispensary and later became a formal hospital in 1903. The first public hospital, the Salmaniya Medical Complex, opened in 1957, and the country also has several private hospitals, such as the International Hospital of Bahrain.

The Bahrain Defence Force – Royal Medical Services (BDF-RMS) started as a small clinic in 1968 and expanded into a 120-bed hospital in 1979.

While the Bahraini government provides free healthcare to its citizens, it is important for tourists to have appropriate travel insurance that covers their itinerary, planned activities, and potential emergency expenses.

Local laws

Bahrain is considered a liberal country compared to its neighbouring countries, but it is important to respect and follow its local traditions, customs, laws, and religions. Here are some key laws to be aware of when visiting Bahrain:

• It is mandatory to carry a photo ID, such as a passport, at all times. Failure to produce a photo ID when asked by the authorities can result in a fine.
• Dress conservatively, especially in public places like malls, restaurants, and parks. Clothing for women should not expose the shoulders or knees, and nudity is strictly forbidden. During Ramadan, dress codes are followed more closely, and modesty is promoted.
• Respect Islamic religious values and practices. Any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and can lead to heavy fines or prison sentences.
• During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime. Additionally, refrain from playing loud music or dancing in public places.
• Offensive language, spitting, and aggressive behaviour, including rude hand gestures, are considered seriously offensive and can result in prison sentences and deportation.
• Alcohol is legal, but drunken public behaviour is illegal and can result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation.
• The use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited, and even residual amounts can lead to severe consequences. Buying, selling, or possessing illegal drugs can result in life imprisonment and deportation.
• Same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults over the age of 21 is not prohibited by law. However, public displays of affection can cause offence and are illegal. While arrests are rare, there have been reported cases of individuals being punished for same-sex activity.
• It is illegal to fly drones or remote-controlled unmanned aerial vehicles without a valid licence or in restricted airspace.
• Always carry your driver's licence and vehicle registration cards when driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and can result in fines, travel bans, and prison sentences.
• Bahrain has strict rules regarding debt, and it is important to settle any financial obligations before leaving the country.
• Public displays of affection, especially for unmarried couples, are generally frowned upon and can be considered illegal.
• Homosexuality is decriminalised, but there are still laws and social attitudes that may pose challenges for LGBTQIA+ individuals. It is recommended to research the local laws and social climate before travelling as an LGBTQIA+ individual.
• During Ramadan, publicly consuming food during daylight hours is prohibited. However, tourist-focused restaurants will still serve meals during the day.

Frequently asked questions