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3,152 mi away
£1 BHD 0.515
Today
1:24 pm
+3h from you
Travel warning
There's a high risk of terrorist attacks in places like hotels and beaches, and flights in and out of the country are still being cancelled or changed at short notice.
Weather & climate
Weather in Bahrain
Bahrain
30°
Overcast
Sat
27°
30°
Sun
28°
32°
Mon
28°
35°
Tue
27°
37°
Wed
27°
39°
Thu
27°
37°
Fri
27°
35°
SPF level in Bahrain
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Bahrain
What British travellers need to know
Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Bahrain.
You must have a visa to visit Bahrain, which you can get online in advance, from the embassy, or on arrival.
Visit visas are automatically issued for 2 weeks, but stays of up to 6 months are also available.
You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply for a visa.
You will be denied entry if you try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Good to know:
You must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk.
There are strict customs rules, and you must declare any goods that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Safety in Bahrain
Tips when travelling
Bahrain is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
You must carry photo ID like a passport at all times or you could face a large fine.
Public drunkenness is illegal and can lead to a fine, imprisonment, or deportation.
Nudity and topless sunbathing are strictly forbidden, especially during Ramadan.
Dress modestly in public places, ensuring clothing is not transparent and covers shoulders and knees for women.
Offensive language, spitting, or aggressive behaviour like road rage can result in a prison sentence and deportation.
Bonus tips:
Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during daylight hours in Ramadan.
Be aware that drivers may stop suddenly in lay-bys to pray at various times of day.
Stay connected on your trip
More information
Driving in Bahrain
A UK driving license is valid for driving in Bahrain for a short visit. An international driving permit may be useful but is not strictly required. If you reside in Bahrain, you will need to apply for a Bahraini driving license.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
60 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: Bahrain drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in Bahrain
As a British tourist, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation. While Bahrain has a good healthcare system, treatment can be expensive for non-residents. Check your policy covers all activities you plan to do. GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Bahrain.
No vaccinations required
Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and necessary precautions before travelling to Bahrain. Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Drink bottled water and be cautious of food hygiene to avoid stomach upsets. Bahrain's climate is hot, so stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Bahrain, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
Tipping in Bahrain
Tipping is not mandatory in Bahrain, but it is becoming more customary, especially in the service industry, to show appreciation for good service.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill, if service charge is not included
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill, if service charge is not included
Taxi
Round up the fare or a small tip
Hotel Porter
1-2 BHD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
1-2 BHD per night
Tour Guide
5-10 BHD per day, depending on the service
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Bahrain. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM
10 GB for 6 BHD (~£12)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Electrical in Bahrain
Voltage
230V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type G, Type D
No UK adapter needed
WiFi & internet
WiFi is readily available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls.
Average speed
35 Mbps
Many establishments offer free WiFi to customers. Mobile data is also readily available, although using a local SIM might provide cost savings.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Bahrain
Country code
+973
To call the British Embassy in Bahrain, dial 00 973 1757 4100 from the UK.
The country code for Bahrain is 973. When calling Bahrain from abroad, first dial your country's exit code, then 973, and then the local number.
Languages in Bahrain
UK Embassy
British Embassy Bahrain
Building 60, Road 1702, Block 317, Diplomatic Area, Manama
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Warnings and insurance
21 days ago
Safety
- The advice to 'stay inside and limit movements to essential journeys only' has been removed.
Warnings and insurance
24 days ago
Safety
- Attacks on civilian infrastructure have decreased, but the risk of renewed strikes at short notice remains.
Warnings and insurance
28 days ago
Air travel
- Airspace re-opened on 8 April, following closure since 28 February.
- Limited commercial flights from Bahrain International Airport are now available.
Travel disruption
- Further airspace closures or restrictions may still be imposed at short notice.
Airports in Bahrain
Beaches in Bahrain
Frequently asked questions
Bahrain is generally considered a safe country with a low crime rate. However, like any travel destination, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. It's wise to avoid large public gatherings or demonstrations as a precaution.
The best time to visit Bahrain is during the cooler months, from November to April. During this period, the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C.
Bahrain is a relatively liberal Muslim country, but it's important to dress modestly, especially in religious areas. Women should avoid overly revealing clothing. When visiting mosques, women will need to cover their heads, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants and bars. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places. During the holy month of Ramadan, alcohol availability may be restricted.
Try Machboos (a spiced rice dish with meat or fish), Muhammar (sweet rice with dates), and Balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs). Also, enjoy fresh seafood and local dates. Many restaurants offer a mix of traditional Bahraini and international cuisine.
Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, as they may inflate prices or lead you to tourist traps. Always agree on a price before taking a taxi to avoid overcharging. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
British citizens can typically obtain a visa on arrival in Bahrain for tourism purposes. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. You can also apply for an e-visa online before you travel. Always check the latest visa requirements on the official Bahraini government website.
The local currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). Exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or at the airport. Credit cards are widely accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and taxi fares.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.