Traveling to Bahrain: An Essential Guide

Bahrain is a fascinating mix of old and new. This island country offers a more open atmosphere while still deeply rooted in Arab-Islamic traditions.

Respecting local customs is key for a smoother and enjoyable trip. Understanding the local customs, weather patterns, and legal requirements will ensure you’re well-prepared.

From navigating cultural details to transportation options, let us guide you for a memorable stay in Bahrain.

Bahrain is a unique island country in the Persian Gulf and is connected to Saudi Arabia by the impressive King Fahd Causeway. The country comprises a small group of islands, with Bahrain Island at its heart.

Traveling between these islands is quite easy which makes exploring different parts fun and straightforward.

In Bahrain, locals mainly speak Arabic. However, many also understand English very well. Learning some basic Arabic phrases for greetings and asking directions is still a good idea.

You’ll find road signs and menus in both Arabic and English which is a good thing because this makes getting around or ordering food much simpler for foreign travelers.

The local money in Bahrain is called the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). It’s okay to use credit cards in most places, although smaller shops prefer cash. You don’t worry about finding an ATM because they are all over the cities.

Always have some cash with you, especially at local markets.

Choosing the best time to visit Bahrain is important in how you pack for your trip. Bahrain experiences extreme temperatures due to its desert climate. Consider the weather when deciding what clothes to bring.

From June to September, it gets very hot and humid in Bahrain. If you’re not a fan of humidity and prefer milder weather, plan your visit between December and March instead.

The rainfall here is rare, but expect sunny weather almost every day throughout the year.

Before you pack your bags for Bahrain, remember that it’s important to dress conservatively, especially for women. Due to the heat, you may wear lightweight clothing but keep your shoulders and knees covered in public places.

You can wear swimwear only at beaches and hotel pools to respect local customs.

Understanding greeting customs can help you make a good first impression. Men often shake hands with each other. If you’re meeting a woman, wait for her to extend her hand first.

Always use your right hand for greetings and eating. Also, addressing people by their professional title shows respect.

Dining in Bahrain comes with its own set of rules. Patience is key during dinner plans since meals often start late.

• Eat with your right hand.
• Offering to share the bill is polite but not expected.

Bahrain is predominantly Islamic, so respecting prayer times and religious customs is important.

• Non-Muslims are welcome in certain mosques if they dress modestly.
• During Ramadan, avoid eating in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting.

Bahrain is a safe place for travelers. However, you should still be careful like you would anywhere else. It’s best to stay away from political protests or big crowds. While it’s rare, petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen so make sure to safeguard your money and passport.

Remember how we talked about respecting local customs? That helps with safety, too. People will appreciate your efforts and be more welcoming.

The sun in Bahrain is strong. Make sure to always use sunscreen and wear a hat when outside to protect you from getting a sunburn.

Drinking tap water isn’t a good idea here. Stick to bottled or filtered water instead to keep you safe from stomach problems.

Healthcare in Bahrain is top-notch, but don’t forget to purchase health insurance for emergencies.

Knowing who to call in an emergency is important:

• For police, ambulance, or fire service, dial 999.
• Make sure you know where your country’s embassy or consulate is located.
• Having a local contact number handy can also be very helpful during emergencies.

Public buses in Bahrain cover the major areas, but the service is limited. You might find it challenging to rely solely on them for all your travel needs. Taxis are readily available across the country. Before hopping in, either agree on a fare or ensure the meter is running to help avoid any surprises when you reach your destination.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber are operational in Bahrain and can be convenient because they allow you to estimate your fare before booking a ride.

If you prefer driving yourself, remember that an International Driving Permit in Bahrain is required. In Bahrain, everyone drives on the right-hand side of the road. Keep an eye out for sudden lane changes by other drivers.

Always carry relevant documents while driving to ensure smooth interactions if stopped by local authorities.

Driving in Bahrain offers a unique opportunity to explore the island nation’s rich culture, modern skyline, and historical sites at your own pace. However, familiarizing yourself with Bahrain’s essential driving rules is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when driving in Bahrain:

• Driving License

A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and your national driving license are important when driving in Bahrain. The IDP is a translation of your original license and is required for non-GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) license holders.

• Right-Hand Drive

Like most countries, Bahrain follows the right-hand driving system.

• Speed Limits

Speed limits in Bahrain vary depending on the area:

• 60-80 km/h in cities and up to
• 120 km/h on highways
• Seat Belts and Child Safety

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Children under 10 must not sit in the front seat; therefore, child safety seats are required for young children.

• Alcohol Consumption

Bahrain has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. Penalties for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) are severe.

Obtaining an International Driving Permit is a critical step before driving in Bahrain. The IDP serves as an additional form of identification.

It’s especially useful in case of traffic stops or accidents. This is where you may need to communicate with local authorities who might not be familiar with your national driving license.

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Walking and biking options are limited due to infrastructure and weather conditions. Pedestrian areas are scarce, so be cautious when walking alongside roadsides. Biking as a means of transport isn’t very common because of the heat.

However, few bike paths are available for enthusiasts willing to brave the elements.

Picking the right location is key when planning your stay. Staying near tourist attractions can save you time and hassle. This way, you’re close to the sights you want to see. Bahrain’s heat can be intense, so seek out spots with air conditioning to stay cool.

Safety and convenience matter, too. Do some homework on neighborhoods. Check their safety ratings and what amenities they offer.

There are many ways to find a good place to stay. Websites like Booking.com or Airbnb are great starts. They have lots of options for every budget.

But don’t just book the first thing you see. Here are some things you might want to consider:

• Read reviews from other travelers.
• Compare prices.
• Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts or special offers.

These steps can help ensure that your accommodation enhances your travel experience in Bahrain.

Your money needs careful planning too. Take these into consideration as well:

• Eating at local markets is often cheaper than dining at restaurants.
• If there’s public transport available for where you’re going, it’s usually more affordable than taxis.
• Remember: visiting attractions might cost money too.

Budgeting wisely means enjoying more of what Bahrain has to offer without spending too much.

Trying Bahrain’s local dishes is one of the best things to do in Bahrain. One must-try local dish is Machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat, that reflects the rich flavors of the region. Another popular choice is Muhammar, a sweet rice dish that pairs well with fish or shrimp. Given Bahrain’s coastal geography, seafood plays a significant role in the local diet. You’ll find fresh catches of the day at many restaurants.

For dessert, don’t miss out on Halwa Showaiter. This sweet treat is beloved across Bahrain and makes for a perfect end to any meal.

When dining out in Bahrain, you’ll notice tipping isn’t mandatory but is always appreciated for good service. 10% is standard practice.

If you plan on dining out, reservations are recommended for high-end restaurants, especially during weekends.

Do you smoke? Many outdoor dining areas allow smoking. This might be important to consider when choosing where to eat based on your preferences.

In many restaurants in Bahrain, you’ll see that a service charge is often included in your bill; however, additional tipping is optional but welcomed for exceptional service. For taxi rides around town or from your accommodation site discussed earlier, rounding up the fare is an appropriate tip.

Hotel staff also appreciate small tips for their services throughout your stay—another way to show gratitude during your travel experience.

Being one of the largest mosques in the world, Al Fateh Grand Mosque is a sight to behold. Its architecture and features make it one of the best places to visit in Bahrain.

The Bahrain National Museum should be next on your list. It showcases Bahrain’s rich history and culture through artifacts.

The Tree of Life stands as a mystery in the desert, over 400 years old. Its survival amazes both visitors and scientists.

Bahrain has unique cultural events you shouldn’t miss. Attend a traditional Pearl Diving show to glimpse into Bahrain’s heritage. Visit Manama Souq for an authentic shopping experience where you can find local crafts.

If you’re visiting during race season, experiencing the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Bahrain International Circuit is thrilling.

For those who love the sea, going pearl diving off the coast is one of the best things to do in Bahrain. It’s a fun activity with clear waters welcoming divers of all levels. Desert camping under stars in Sakhir desert offers an unforgettable night sky view. Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy jet skiing along beautiful beaches.

Packing too much can weigh you down so choose versatile clothing for multiple occasions. Most places in Bahrain offer laundry services so you can wash and wear clothes again. Anyway, you will find most essentials available locally if needed.

Bahrain has strict rules regarding alcohol consumption which is why you can only drink in licensed venues to avoid trouble with the law. Public displays of affection are also frowned upon so keep your behavior conservative out of respect for local customs.

Be mindful about where you point your camera. Taking photos near government buildings or military sites is restricted due to security concerns.

Never overlook travel insurance when planning your trip to Bahrain. It covers medical emergencies and unexpected trip cancellations, which could save you from major expenses.

Make sure your policy covers any specific activities planned during your stay in Bahrain. Also, check travel advisories for any potential issues on the ground.

As you prepare for your trip to Bahrain, you’re now equipped with the essential knowledge to make your trip memorable.

But to embrace the spirit of adventure, consider renting a car for your trip. The freedom to navigate and witness the stunning contrast between desert landscapes at your own pace is unparalleled.

And with an International Driving Permit, this freedom becomes accessible because it ensures you’re prepared for any road adventures that lie ahead.

Have a safe trip, and let Bahrain’s treasures unfold before you!