Credit Cards In Bahrain: Accepted Types Explained

Credit cards are widely accepted in Bahrain, with Visa and Mastercard being the most common. Banks in Bahrain commonly issue these cards, and they are accepted at most ATMs and merchants throughout the country. American Express and Diners Club charge cards are also available and accepted in the Gulf region, although to a lesser extent due to higher commission fees for suppliers. Various banks in Bahrain offer credit cards with different benefits, such as rewards programmes, cashback, and travel benefits.

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Bahrain and are the most commonly issued by banks in the country. This means that if you are travelling to Bahrain, it is worth having one of these cards in your wallet.

Many benefits come with using a Visa or Mastercard in Bahrain. For example, Visa cardholders can take advantage of the Visa Concierge Service, Visa Airport Experience YQ Meet & Assist, and Visa Airport Experience DragonPass Airport Dining Offers. Mastercard cardholders can also access exclusive benefits, such as the Priceless Specials mobile app, which offers exciting deals.

In addition, both Visa and Mastercard often come with travel insurance, which can be very useful when travelling to Bahrain or another country. Some cards also offer life insurance when the card is used for travel arrangements, giving you extra peace of mind when on the move.

It is worth noting that while American Express and Diners Club charge cards are also available in Bahrain and accepted to varying degrees, they are less common due to the higher commission charged to suppliers.

Charge cards are available from American Express and Diners Club

While Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards worldwide and are the most commonly issued by banks in Bahrain, charge cards are also available from American Express and Diners Club. These cards are available in the Gulf region and are fairly widely accepted, although less so than the major credit cards, due to the higher commission charged to suppliers.

Charge cards offer a similar facility to credit cards but restrict the credit period, usually to one month. American Express and Diners Club cards are a good option for those who want to benefit from the purchasing power of a credit card but without the long-term interest charges that can build up.

American Express, often known as Amex, is a well-known and established charge card provider. It offers a range of benefits to its cardholders, including travel and lifestyle perks. Diners Club is another option for those seeking a charge card. Diners Club cards are also widely accepted and provide similar benefits to American Express.

When choosing a charge card, it is important to consider the annual fee, which can vary depending on the issuing company and the specific card type. Additionally, it is worth noting that using a charge card in Bahrain may incur a surcharge, particularly when purchasing from small traders. Nonetheless, charge cards can be a convenient and useful option for those seeking an alternative to traditional credit cards.

Credit cards offer benefits like travel insurance

Variety of Options

There are over 200 credit cards available in Bahrain, offered by various banks, including HSBC, Standard Chartered, and Al Baraka Islamic Bank. These cards cater to different needs, such as travel benefits, rewards programmes, and interest rates. By comparing the features and benefits, you can select the one that aligns with your specific requirements.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a valuable feature offered by some credit cards, such as the BisB Visa Signature Credit Card and the Arab Bank Visa Signature Credit Card. This insurance can cover unexpected events, providing financial protection and peace of mind during your trip. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the travel insurance provided by the credit card, as coverage may vary.

Airport Lounge Access

For frequent travellers, airport lounge access can be a valuable perk. Cards like the HSBC Premier Credit Card and the HSBC Advance Credit Card offer unlimited access to airport lounges worldwide. This benefit provides a comfortable and convenient space to relax or work while waiting for your flight.

Rewards and Cashback

Many credit cards in Bahrain offer rewards programmes or cashback on purchases. For example, the HSBC Cashback Credit Card offers up to 2% cashback on fuel and groceries and 1% cashback on all other spends. The Arab Bank Visa Signature Credit Card enrols you in the Arabi Rewards Program, allowing you to collect points for purchases. These rewards can enhance your travel experience by providing discounts or free services.

Interest-Free Credit

Some credit cards, such as the HSBC Advance Credit Card and the BisB Visa Signature Credit Card, offer interest-free credit for a specified period. This feature can be beneficial if you need to make a large purchase or want to manage your cash flow more flexibly during your trip.

Additional Perks

Credit cards may also offer a range of other benefits, such as supplementary cards for family members, extended warranties on purchases, exclusive discounts at select establishments, and special privileges at hotels or resorts. These perks can further enhance your travel experience and provide added value to your credit card.

When choosing a credit card for travel, consider your specific needs and priorities. By selecting a card with benefits like travel insurance, airport lounge access, rewards programmes, or interest-free credit, you can maximise the advantages of your credit card while exploring all that Bahrain has to offer.

Cards can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs

Credit and debit cards can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs in Bahrain. Most ATMs accept a substantial number of regional and international cards, which are invariably illustrated on the machines themselves. You can find ATMs inside and outside banks, as well as in shopping malls, supermarkets, and hypermarkets.

When using an ATM, there is generally a limit on the amount of cash that can be withdrawn per day, typically ranging from $450 to $700 (£300 to £500) in local currency. Account balances and mini-statements can usually be obtained from these machines, and most provide instructions and information in both Arabic and English. It is important to note that some machines require you to remove your cash quickly, or it will be retracted.

If you request a withdrawal amount exceeding your current account balance, you will be prompted to request a lesser amount or the transaction will be terminated. Similarly, if you select an unavailable service, the transaction will be cancelled, and you can use the 'cancel' button at any time to end the transaction. In the event that your card is lost or stolen during a transaction, it is crucial to notify your bank immediately and complete the necessary forms to obtain a replacement card.

While Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Bahrain, charge cards such as those issued by American Express and Diners Club are also available and accepted, although to a lesser extent due to higher commission charges. When using a foreign credit card in Bahrain, be aware that charges for cash withdrawals begin immediately, unlike other transactions where delayed charging may apply.

Credit cards can be used for large purchases and renting

Credit cards are extremely useful for large purchases and renting. In Bahrain, there are plenty of options for credit cards, with Visa and Mastercard being the most widely accepted worldwide and the most commonly issued by banks in the country. This makes these cards a good option for large purchases and renting, as they are widely recognised and accepted.

When it comes to large purchases, using a credit card can offer some protection against faulty goods or a company going out of business. This is particularly useful when buying high-value items, as it gives peace of mind that you can get your money back if something goes wrong. Many credit cards also offer reward points, which can be redeemed for consumer goods, travel discounts, and more. These points can add up quickly when making large purchases, providing additional benefits.

Credit cards are also essential when renting, especially when it comes to car rentals or booking hotels. In these cases, a credit card is often required to secure the reservation and provide a guarantee for any potential damages. Some credit cards even offer specific benefits for car rentals, such as discounts or insurance coverage, making the process more convenient and cost-effective.

For example, the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card offers benefits such as up to 36 days of interest-free credit and acceptance in 32 million outlets worldwide. The Mastercard World Elite card provides exclusive travel benefits, including access to over 1,200 airport lounges globally, and the opportunity to earn double points on selected dates and national holidays.

When choosing a credit card for large purchases or renting, it is important to compare the features, benefits, and rates offered by different providers to find the one that best suits your needs and provides the most advantages for the types of transactions you plan to make.

Frequently asked questions