Bahrain Travel: What To Pack And Wear

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, you might be wondering what to pack. As a Muslim country, there are certain expectations when it comes to clothing, but Bahrain is also known for its tolerance and acceptance of other cultures. Here's a quick guide to help you navigate the local dress code and pack appropriately for your trip.

In general, both men and women should aim to dress modestly when in public. This means covering the shoulders to the knees, and avoiding tight or see-through clothing. Women typically wear long skirts or trousers, and a headscarf is recommended when visiting mosques or other places where a covered head is required. Men usually wear long trousers and a headscarf, and shorts are generally frowned upon outside of beach settings.

It's worth noting that Bahrain experiences hot summers, with temperatures averaging 37-40°C, so lightweight and breathable fabrics are a must. Don't forget to pack a pashmina or scarf, not only for modesty but also to keep warm in heavily air-conditioned malls and restaurants.

While Bahrainis are known for their tolerance, it's always a good idea to respect local customs and traditions. By dressing modestly and keeping an open mind, you'll be sure to have a wonderful trip to this culturally rich country.

Dressing for the weather in Bahrain

Bahrain has two main seasons: a cooler season lasting from November/December to February/April, and a hot season from May/April to October. In winter, temperatures can drop to 10°C at night, so jeans and a sweater or light jacket are recommended. During the summer, temperatures can reach 46°C, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential.

While there is no specific dress code in Bahrain, it is a conservative Muslim country, and visitors should dress modestly when in public. Here are some tips on how to dress for the weather in Bahrain:

For Women:

• In general, cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing or tight clothing.
• Loose, long skirts and maxi dresses made of lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal.
• Capris, culottes, or long trousers are good options for bottoms.
• Avoid sleeveless tops and spaghetti straps. Instead, opt for t-shirts or blouses with sleeves.
• Bring a shawl or pashmina to cover your shoulders and add an extra layer when indoors, as the air conditioning can be strong.
• Swimwear is only appropriate at private beaches or pools. Cover up with a lightweight layer when moving between locations.
• Sun protection is essential. Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

For Men:

• Long trousers are recommended, even in the summer. Light chinos or linen trousers are good options.
• Shorts are generally not recommended, except at beaches or private resorts. If you do wear shorts, ensure they are at least knee-length.
• Avoid sleeveless tops and offensive slogan t-shirts.
• Sandals or flip-flops are common footwear choices for men.
• As with women, a pashmina or light scarf can be useful for added warmth indoors and sun protection outdoors.

For Children:

There are no restrictions on what young children should wear. However, it is recommended to dress them for sun protection and weather-appropriate activities. For older children and teenagers, the same guidelines as adults apply.

General Tips:

• Dress modestly when visiting traditional areas, such as souqs, central markets, and villages.
• When visiting mosques, both men and women should wear long, loose-fitting clothing that covers from the shoulders to the knees. Women will also need to cover their hair with a scarf.
• In malls and restaurants, the dress code is more relaxed, but it is still recommended to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing.
• Remember that Bahrain is a Muslim country, and it is important to respect the local culture and dress accordingly.

What to wear in traditional areas

When visiting traditional areas in Bahrain, such as souks, villages, central markets, and mosques, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively. Here are some guidelines for both men and women to follow when visiting these traditional areas:

Women's Dress Code in Traditional Areas:

• Wear long skirts or trousers that cover the knees. Longer clothing that falls below the knees is preferable.
• Avoid wearing sleeveless tops, and ensure that your cleavage and midriff are not exposed.
• A pashmina or shawl is a useful item to have with you. It can be used to add extra coverage and modesty to your outfit.
• Avoid revealing or tight-fitting clothing. Instead, opt for loose-fitting and flowy styles.
• Bring a hat or sun protection, such as a sun hat or a headscarf, especially when visiting mosques where covering your head is required.
• If you plan to visit a mosque, be prepared to cover yourself from head to toe in loose-fitting clothing. If you are not sufficiently covered, an abaya and hijab can usually be borrowed from the mosque.

Men's Dress Code in Traditional Areas:

• Wear long trousers or pants. Light chinos, linen trousers, or cargo trousers are suitable options.
• Avoid wearing shorts in traditional areas, except for beaches.
• Refrain from wearing sleeveless tops or tank tops, especially when visiting mosques.
• Ensure that your attire is neat, clean, and well-pressed.
• A pashmina or light scarf can be useful for added coverage or warmth in air-conditioned spaces.

In general, it is important to remember that Bahrain is a conservative Muslim country, and dressing modestly is a sign of respect for the local culture and traditions.

What to wear to the beach in Bahrain

As a Muslim country, Bahrain has certain dress standards that tourists and residents are expected to observe. However, it is one of the most tolerant countries in the region when it comes to dress code.

When visiting a beach in Bahrain, it's important to consider whether it is a public or private beach. On a private beach, you can wear swimwear, such as bikinis or shorts. However, on a public beach, it is recommended to dress more conservatively, covering your shoulders and knees. Revealing swimwear is not allowed on public beaches.

General Dress Code Guidelines in Bahrain

In general, both men and women should aim to keep their knees and shoulders covered when in public. Clothing should be modest and not too tight or revealing. Here are some specific recommendations for men and women:

Women's Dress Code in Bahrain

• Long, loose and flowy skirts and maxi dresses are great options.
• Three-quarter trousers or culottes are good choices.
• Avoid sleeveless tops, low necklines, and revealing clothing.
• Spaghetti straps, boob tube-style tops, and tight clothing should be avoided.
• Bring a shawl or pashmina to cover your shoulders if needed.
• Leggings can be worn underneath dresses or skirts that are too short.

Men's Dress Code in Bahrain

• Men should generally wear long trousers, even during the summer.
• Light chinos or cargo trousers are recommended. If you prefer shorts, make sure they are at least knee-length.
• Avoid wearing sleeveless tank tops or offensive slogan t-shirts.
• Sandals, flip-flops, and sneakers are common footwear choices for men.

What to wear in malls and restaurants

As a Muslim country, Bahrain has certain expectations when it comes to clothing, but it is also one of the most tolerant countries in the region regarding dress code.

The dress code in malls and restaurants in Bahrain is casual, and you don't need to dress conservatively. However, it is still important to dress modestly when in public. Here are some guidelines for what to wear:

Women:

• Keep your knees and shoulders covered.
• Avoid revealing or tight clothing.
• Avoid sleeveless tops, spaghetti straps, and clothing that shows cleavage.
• Skirts and shorts are acceptable, but avoid anything too short or revealing.
• Leggings can be worn underneath shorter garments.
• A t-shirt, blouse, or shirt is fine, but avoid low necklines.
• Bring a shawl or pashmina to cover your shoulders if needed.
• Materials such as silk, cotton, and linen are good choices.
• Long, loose, and flowy skirts and maxi dresses are great options.
• Three-quarter trousers or culottes are also suitable.

Men:

• Wear long trousers instead of shorts.
• Avoid sleeveless tops and tank tops.
• Refrain from wearing offensive slogans on t-shirts.
• Sandals, flip-flops, and sneakers are all suitable footwear options.

In general, it is advisable to dress neatly and modestly when visiting malls and restaurants in Bahrain, and to respect the local culture and traditions.

What to wear in mosques

As Bahrain is a Muslim country, modesty is key when it comes to choosing what to wear. This is especially important when visiting mosques, where specific attire etiquette is expected.

When visiting a mosque in Bahrain, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Here are some guidelines for both women and men:

For Women:

The key principle for women is modesty, which means wearing clothing that covers the body and does not reveal its shape. Islamic culture emphasises preserving dignity and maintaining a respectful atmosphere.

The most common attire you'll see women wearing in mosques is the hijab, a headscarf that covers the head and neck while leaving the face visible. Along with the hijab, women often choose to wear body-covering clothes such as an abaya, a long, loose-fitting robe that covers the entire body except for the hands, feet, and face. Abayas are traditionally black but are now available in various colours and designs.

Alternatively, women can opt for a loose-fitting dress, a prayer outfit (a loose outer garment worn over regular or casual clothes, sometimes with a built-in hijab), a loose maxi skirt paired with a loose shirt, a salwar kameez (loose trousers with a long tunic), or a kurta (a long, loose shirt that falls between the waist and the knee). These outfits, when paired with a hijab, usually fulfil the dress code requirements for women in most mosques.

While Islamic clothing is not obligatory, the emphasis is on modesty. As long as your attire is respectful and meets the requirements of modest dressing, it is usually acceptable.

For Men:

The principle of modesty also applies to men's attire when visiting mosques. Clothing should be respectful, clean, and not reveal the body unnecessarily.

Men commonly wear full-length pants, ideally reaching just above the ankles, paired with a regular shirt that covers the shoulders and extends to at least the mid-thighs.

Men may also opt for traditional Islamic clothing such as a salwar kameez (loose trousers and a long shirt) or a dishdasha/thobe (a long robe-like garment common in Arab countries). Additionally, men may consider wearing a kufi (a short, rounded skullcap) and khuff (traditional soft leather socks). While not necessary, wearing a kufi is often seen as respectful and is worn during prayer and religious ceremonies.

Similar to women, men are not required to wear specifically Islamic attire. Modest, clean, and respectful clothing is the main requirement. Full-length pants and a shirt or sweater are widely accepted. Shorts, however, are generally discouraged due to insufficient coverage.

General Guidelines:

Regardless of your cultural or ethnic background, mosques welcome visitors of diverse backgrounds. Your attire should not be a barrier to your visit, and many options are suitable as long as they adhere to the expected modesty.

Additionally, remember that your demeanour and respect for the sacred space and its worshippers are just as important as your clothing choices. Silence during prayers and general conduct also play a significant role in showing respect.

Frequently asked questions