Travel Essentials

Bahrain: What To Know Before You Go

Plugs: Type G, 230 V. Emergency: One number for everything 999. Tipping: Not required; 10 percent is common in restaurants if no service charge is added. Tap water: Tap water is safe; many visitors prefer bottled water.

Open The Bahrain Trip Kit

Plugs And Power

Type G, 230 V

Emergency Numbers

One number for everything

999

Tipping

Not required; 10 percent is common in restaurants if no service charge is added.

Water And Health

Tap water: Tap water is safe; many visitors prefer bottled water
Vaccines: Routine vaccines, hepatitis A, typhoid
Malaria: None

Apps To Download Before You Go

BenefitPay: The national mobile payments app used in shops, cafés and for sending money.
Careem: The main ride-hailing app for taxis and private cars.
Talabat: Food and grocery delivery that covers most of the island.
Jahez: A popular local food delivery app.
WhatsApp: Used by hotels, shops, drivers and for almost everyday chat.
Gulf Air: The national airline's app for flights and e-tickets.

Customs And Etiquette

Greetings. Greet with a handshake; men should wait for women to offer a hand first, and use your right hand to eat and give things.

Dress. Dress modestly; shoulders and knees covered in public, and swimwear only at pools and beaches.

Ramadan. Do not eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight in Ramadan.

Safety And Scams

Bahrain is safe for visitors, with low crime; check your government's advisory for political demonstrations in some Shia villages.

Taxi overcharging. Some taxis do not use the meter at the airport; agree a price or use Careem.

Drinks and gifts. Be careful with high-pressure souq sellers and pricey 'gold' deals; compare prices first.

Women travelers. Generally safe for women; modest dress is advised and harassment is uncommon.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Legal · Use Caution

Consensual same-sex relations between adults are not criminalized, but there is no legal protection, and public displays of affection and open expression can bring charges under public morality laws. Discretion is wise.

What Things Cost

Coffee (café)	BHD 1.5	$4
Local bus or metro ride	BHD 0.3	$0.80
Mid-range restaurant meal	BHD 8	$21
Hostel bed / budget room (night)	BHD 15	$40
Mid-range hotel (night)	BHD 55	$146
Daily budget, mid-range traveler	BHD 45	$120

2026-09

Best Time To Visit

November to March is mild and pleasant; June to September is extremely hot and humid.

Do You Need A Visa?

Bahrain visa requirements by nationality

Phrases

Basic Arabic (Gulf) phrases · Basic English phrases · Basic Arabic phrases