Bahrain: Safe Haven For Expats To Live And Work?

The Kingdom of Bahrain is a Middle Eastern archipelago located in the Persian Gulf, near Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It is known for its petroleum-based economy and relaxed, cosmopolitan culture. While the crime rate in Bahrain is generally low, there are some safety concerns to be aware of when considering living and working in the country.

Crime rates are low, but there is a risk of petty theft and burglary

Crime rates are low in Bahrain, but residents and visitors should still take normal precautions to protect their belongings. While violent crime is rare, there is a risk of petty theft and burglary.

Petty theft is a real concern in Bahrain, and burglaries are also known to happen, so it is necessary to remain vigilant. Tourists should consider using a money belt and be particularly careful with passports and other documentation. It is also important to not wear expensive jewellery or flash items such as hi-tech devices and cameras in public. Visitors should always know where their belongings are, and it is recommended to use the hotel safe for any valuables.

Pickpocketing is also a serious problem in Bahrain, as in most destinations frequented by tourists. Visitors should keep their eyes open in public, crowded areas such as train stations and airports, and keep their valuables close by.

In addition to the risk of petty theft and burglary, there is also a moderate risk of terrorism in Bahrain. There have been numerous terrorist attacks in the Gulf region in recent years, and terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in places visited by foreigners, such as restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques. It is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.

There is a high threat of terrorist attacks, including in places visited by foreigners

High Threat of Terrorist Attacks

There is a high threat of terrorist attacks in Bahrain, including in places frequented by foreigners. Terrorists are likely to attempt attacks, and these could be indiscriminate. The UK government advises that you should remain vigilant at all times and be aware of your surroundings, particularly during significant events and in public places such as restaurants, hotels, shopping centres, and mosques. It is also recommended that you report anything suspicious to the local authorities.

While there have been no successful terrorist attacks in Bahrain in recent years, there have been incidents involving explosive devices in public places that have resulted in casualties. In addition, domestic security forces have conducted several operations to disrupt attack planning and arrest individuals with links to terrorist organisations.

Terrorists have issued statements threatening attacks in the Gulf region, specifically targeting Western interests. These include references to attacks on residential compounds, military and oil facilities, transport and aviation infrastructure, and crowded public places. The ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could also escalate and impact the wider region, including Bahrain.

To reduce your risk, it is essential to follow local news and authorities' instructions, monitor travel advice, and be aware of cultural sensitivities and local laws. It is also recommended to register with your embassy and follow their advice, especially regarding your safety and security.

Safety Precautions

• Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and stay informed about potential risks.
• Avoid large public gatherings or demonstrations, and leave the area if you encounter any.
• Follow local laws and cultural norms, especially during religious festivals such as Ramadan. Respect Islamic values and dress conservatively when in public places.
• Be cautious when using social media, as disrespectful or critical content towards the government or monarchy can have legal consequences.
• Exercise caution when consuming alcohol in public, as drunken behaviour is illegal.
• Avoid illegal drugs entirely, as even residual amounts can lead to severe penalties.
• Be aware of LGBT+ laws—while same-sex activity between consenting adults over 21 is not prohibited, public displays of affection can cause offence and are illegal.

Women travellers should dress modestly, in accordance with Islamic values

Bahrain is an Islamic country and, while it is more liberal and tolerant than some of its neighbours, there are still certain dress standards that women are expected to observe.

Women travellers should be mindful of the conservative nature of Bahraini society, where most women are either hidden from view or expected to cover their heads and arms in public. Visitors should refrain from wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing, including strapless tops, skimpy tops, and shorts. Instead, women should cover up with long-sleeved clothing and trousers, or a longer skirt. It is also a good idea to carry a scarf, which can be used to cover the head when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

In traditional areas such as souqs and markets, women should wear long skirts or trousers, with clothing that covers the knees. Sleeveless tops, low-cut necklines, and clothing that exposes the midriff should be avoided. While Bahrain is generally tolerant of other cultures, it is important to respect the local Islamic values and dress modestly when visiting.

Additionally, women should be aware that there may be unwanted attention from men. Wearing a cheap wedding band or carrying a photo of a "husband" or "children" can help to deter unwanted attention. It is also important to remain vigilant and cautious, especially when travelling alone, as there have been reports of groping and stalking.

When packing for Bahrain, women should include modest clothing options such as long skirts, loose trousers, and tops with sleeves. Pashminas, cardigans, and lightweight leggings can also be useful for layering and covering up when needed. It is also important to dress for the weather, as temperatures can vary from mild to extremely hot.

Transport is unsafe due to reckless drivers, particularly at night

Transport in Bahrain is considered unsafe due to reckless drivers, particularly at night. The roads are filled with reckless drivers who cause accidents regularly, even though the roads themselves are of good quality. Driving at night is especially dangerous as local drivers tend to drive without their headlights on.

To stay safe, it is recommended that you only use reputable taxi companies. Unlicensed vehicles may overcharge, lack meters, and be in poor driving condition. Uber is a great alternative, and it is also extremely cheap compared to the US.

There is also a risk of piracy for anyone travelling by sea in the Gulf. In addition, driving may be erratic during Ramadan, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk, as Muslims pray five times a day and drivers may stop in lay-bys to pray. It is also important to be aware of local sensitivities and customs, such as dressing conservatively in public places, especially religious sites.

There is a risk of natural disasters, including extreme heat, sandstorms and thunderstorms

Bahrain has been ranked as one of the safest places in the world, owing to its low occurrence of natural disasters and the government's continuous efforts in areas such as health, security, and infrastructure. The country's World Risk Index is just 1.69%, with a Vulnerability rating of 39.48% and a Susceptibility rating of 13%.

However, there is still a risk of natural disasters, including extreme heat, sandstorms, and thunderstorms. These events can pose challenges and potential dangers to those living and working in Bahrain.

Extreme heat is a common occurrence in Bahrain due to its desert climate. The country experiences high temperatures throughout the year, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. Such extreme heat can pose health risks, particularly for those who are not accustomed to it or do not take adequate precautions. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are potential dangers, and it is crucial to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and take measures to keep cool.

Sandstorms are another natural hazard in Bahrain. These storms can be caused by strong winds picking up large amounts of sand and dust from the desert areas surrounding the country. Sandstorms can reduce visibility, making travel dangerous, especially on roads. It is advisable to limit outdoor activities during sandstorms and to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, including eye protection, to minimize the risk of injury from flying debris.

Additionally, Bahrain experiences occasional thunderstorms, particularly during the winter months. These storms can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and lightning. While they provide a respite from the heat, thunderstorms can also cause localized flooding and disrupt outdoor activities and travel. It is important to stay updated with weather forecasts and warnings, especially if planning outdoor events or travel during the thunderstorm season.

Overall, while Bahrain is considered one of the safest places globally due to its low occurrence of natural disasters, it is not immune to certain environmental challenges. By being aware of these potential risks and taking the necessary precautions, individuals living and working in Bahrain can minimize the impact of these natural events and maintain their safety and well-being.

Frequently asked questions