£1 BHD 0.512
Today
8:04 pm
+3h from you
Travel warning
There's a real chance of terrorist attacks, including in places like hotels and beaches that tourists visit, and the wider regional conflict is causing major security risks and travel disruption.
Weather & climate
Weather in Bahrain
Bahrain
27°
Overcast
Thu
23°
27°
Fri
24°
27°
Sat
24°
30°
Sun
25°
30°
Mon
26°
28°
Tue
25°
26°
Wed
23°
25°
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, such as your passport, at all times or you could face a large fine.
Drunken public behaviour is illegal and can result in a fine, imprisonment, or deportation.
You should dress conservatively in public places, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered, as inappropriate clothing can cause offence.
During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime as this could be considered a crime.
Using offensive language, spitting, or aggressive behaviour in public is seen as very serious and can lead to a prison sentence and deportation.
Bonus tips:
It's illegal to take photos or videos of military or security sites or to share unverified content online about incidents.
Do not fly drones without a valid licence as it is illegal and they are banned from restricted airspace.
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.
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
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.
UK Embassy
British Embassy Bahrain
Building 60, Road 1702, Block 317, Diplomatic Area, Manama
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Warnings and insurance
1 day ago
Safety
- Attacks on civilian infrastructure have decreased, but the risk of renewed strikes at short notice remains.
Warnings and insurance
6 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.
Warnings and insurance
9 days ago
Travel disruption
- The King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia may now be subject to further closures at short notice.
- Airspace is now closed.
Warnings and insurance
15 days ago
Security threats
- The Iranian regime now publicly states it intends to target locations associated with the US and Israel.
- The advice to 'stay away from... US facilities and institutions' now specifies 'US-linked locations', including businesses and organisations.
Frequently asked questions
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.
