Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Bahrain depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for BahrainEmergency Numbers
- General
- 999
Currency
- Name
- Bahraini Dinar
- Code
- BHD
- Symbol
- BD
The Bahraini Dinar is one of the world's highest-valued currencies (1 BHD ≈ $2.65 USD). ATMs widespread. Cards accepted almost everywhere. Keep small notes for markets and taxis.
Power Outlets
- Outlet type
- Type G
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
AST (UTC+3) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
October–March is the only comfortable outdoor season (18–28°C). The Bahrain F1 Grand Prix runs in late March/early April — book accommodation months ahead. April–September sees temperatures exceed 40°C.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10–15% | Service charge (10%) often included — check the bill |
| Taxis | Round up | Uber and Careem are widely used |
| Hotels | BD 0.5–1 for porters | — |
| Spas and salons | 10–15% | — |
Dress Code
- More liberal than other Gulf states — smart casual is fine in most areas
- Modest dress in the Manama souq and near mosques
- Swimwear at hotel pools and beaches only
- Avoid revealing clothing in local neighbourhoods
Social Etiquette
- Bahrain is the most liberal of the Gulf Arab states — alcohol is available in many hotels and licensed venues
- The greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' with a slight bow is respectful
- Accept any offer of Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates — refusing can seem rude
- Business relationships require patient relationship-building before transactions
- Modest physical greeting: men may hold hands briefly as a sign of friendship
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Alcohol is available in hotels, licensed restaurants, and some supermarkets — more widely than in neighbouring Gulf states
- LGBTQ+ activity is illegal and punishable by imprisonment
- Drug offences carry severe penalties
- Criticism of the royal family is a criminal offence
- Photography of government buildings, the royal court, and military facilities is prohibited
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | As-salamu alaykum | ah-SAH-lah-moo ah-LAY-koom |
| Thank you | Shukran | SHOO-krahn |
| Please | Min fadlak (m) / Min fadlik (f) | min FAHD-lahk |
| Welcome | Ahlan wa sahlan | AH-lan wah SAH-lan |
| How much? | Bikkam? | bih-KAHM |
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