Bahrain

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Sub-Region: Middle East, Western Asia

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Bahrain Travel Essentials

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Weather:

Ideal duration: 3-4 days

Best Time: December to March Read More

Ideal Duration: 3-4 days for exploring major attractions

Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD)

Best Time: November to March (Winter months)

Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD): Budget: $10-20
Mid-range: $30-50

Getting In Bahrain: Bahrain International Airport (BAH)

Getting Around Bahrain: Taxis, buses, rental cars

Visa Policy for Indians: E-visa or Visa on Arrival

Visa Policy for Other Nationals: E-visa or Visa on Arrival for many countries

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"The Island of Pearls"

Bahrain Tourism

Bahrain is a small Island nation tucked away in the Persian gulf sharing its borders with Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It is an archipelago of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial islands. Manama is the capital and the largest city. Bahrain is known for its desert vegetation, adventure activities in the water surrounding the island, and growing art and food scene. Bahrain's biggest yearly event - the Bahrain Grand Prix F1 race, is held in April each year and attracts tourists globally.

The Kingdom of Bahrain combines modern Arabic culture with the archaeological legacy of the island. It is home to numerous historic forts, museums and mosques, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The capital Manama has its own charm, housing swanky malls, gold souks, and luxury resorts. A major highlight of Bahrain is the elusive Tree of Life, a lonely mesquite tree that has stood in the middle of a scorching barren desert with no apparent water source for hundreds of years. Another must-visit is Dive Bahrain, the largest underwater theme park in the world. While the beaches of Bahrain are ideal for lounging, some leisure activities like falconry, horse and camel racing, scuba diving and pearl diving are also popular here. Juffair and Seef districts are popular areas for tourists, while Amwaj Islands has a laid-back resort vibe with many resorts located here.

This small island, spread over a mere 650 sq km, is the epitome of hospitality and is known for its petroleum reserves and offshore banking. Bahrain has a vibrant history and culture and was the seat of the Dilmun civilisation during its epitome of glory days. Despite being a Muslim nation, it doesn't impose strict Islamic laws like its neighbours, thus, paving the way for a relaxed atmosphere which draws a large number of tourists.

Must Know Before You Travel to Bahrain

  • Workweek in Bahrain is from Sunday to Thursday
  • Friday is the prayer day, and most shops and tourists attractions are closed in the morning or the entire day
  • Most of the local businesses open at 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and close around 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Many shops close in the afternoon because of the heat and reopen in the evening
  • You can find alcohol in most hotels and some eateries. The locally owned shops, however, don't sell or serve alcohol
  • It is prohibited to eat, smoke or drink in public, during Ramadan
  • Dress modestly, covering the shoulders and knees

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Food in Bahrain

Since it is an Island blanketed with deserts, the diet in Bahrain is restricted mostly to dates, camel milk and other meat products. Camel is used for meat during special occasions. Seafood is also widely consumed. Bread, hummus and tabbouleh (salad) are the staple foods. Some specialities of Bahrain are Falafel (fried chickpeas balls), Machboos (rice with meat/fish), Muhammar (rice with dates) and Shawarma (chicken/lamb )

People here enjoy feasting on their traditional pita bread called khubuz, along with fish and dates, which act as the staple diet of the people. They also prepare black tea called Sulaimani, made with the best of Arabic spices, typically served to guests as an act of honour and respect from traditional Arabic utensils.

Shopping in Bahrain

The Souk(market) in Manama is the place where various stalls are put up and various goods like spices, leather, food , souvenirs are sold. Haggling would help to save a lot of money as the prices quoted initially are usually exorbitant. Manama is one of the premium places to buy high quality Gold and Pearls. A'ali pottery village is famous for its authentic pottery .

Nightlife in Bahrain

Unlike other Arab nations which restrict the use of alcohol, Bahrain adopts relaxed drinking rules which in turn has led to the establishment of many night clubs. Live music concerts are also a common scene. Since Manama is the major city, the party scenes thrive only here.

Exchanging Money in Bahrain

Exchange centres are found in city malls , markets and airports. Bahrain Financing company provides good exchange rates. Before you leave the country , convert all dinars into your local currency because it might be difficult to exchange as it is not a commonly used currency.

Best Time to Visit Bahrain

How to Reach Bahrain

How to Reach Overview

The most preferred means of transport is by air for those who have less time and the cost-effective means of transport is bus.

How to reach Bahrain by flight

Bahrain International airport serves as the hub for its national carrier Gulf Air. Daily flights from major cities include Flydubai, Gulf Air, Sri Lankan Airlines, Emirates, Oman Air, Qatar Airways and Jet airways.

How to reach Bahrain by road

Saudi Nationals are not charged any visa stamp charges when they enter from Saudi Arabia into Bahrain King Fahd Causeway. However, toll charges of 20 SAR is applicable. Visitors from Saudi will have to pay 150 SAR at the causeway. SABTCO ' S taxis can take you across with fares starting from 300 SAR which includes toll charges. It is not advisable to rent a car and drive on your own as it involves a lot of paperwork.

How to reach Bahrain by train

The closest country to Bahrain is Saudi Arabia. The distance between them is close to 415 km. Trains run from the capital city - Riyadh until Dammam only and after you get down at Dammam railway station, you can rent a taxi to head to SABTCO bus station where you can take the buses to reach Bahrain which usually takes one hour. It is to be noted that the train arrival timings are not strictly followed.

How to reach Bahrain by bus

SAPTCO are the official, safety and comfortable buses. Eight buses ply daily from Riyadh to Manama. Reservation should be done beforehand as seats get filled up easily. Travel time takes 4 hours or more and one-way cost is 60 SAR and round trip costs less. Always bring your passport for making reservations. Both Saudi Riyals and US dollars are accepted for payment. Crossing the border involves passport and customs checks.

How to reach Bahrain by waterways

Luxury Cruises are available which cover many Gulf nations including Bahrain

Bahrain Photos

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FAQs on Bahrain

What are the places near Bahrain?

The top places near to Bahrain are Manama which is 18 km from Bahrain, Doha which is located 130 km from Bahrain, Dubai which is located 482 km from Bahrain, Abu dhabi which is located 424 km from Bahrain, Kuwait city which is located 447 km from Bahrain

What is the best way to reach Bahrain?

The most preferred means of transport is by air for those who have less time and the cost-effective means of transport is bus.
Read More

What is the local food in Bahrain?

Since it is an Island blanketed with deserts, the diet is restricted mostly to dates, camel milk and other meat products. Camel is used for meat during special occasions. Seafood is also widely consumed. Filipino, Indian, American and Persian foods are also popular because of the people who originate from there and work here. Bread, hummus and tabbouleh (salad) are the staple foods. Specialities: Falafel (fried chickpeas balls), Machboos (rice with meat/fish), Muhammar (rice with dates) and Shawarma (chicken/lamb)
Read More

What is the best time to visit Bahrain?

December to March is the best time to visit Bahrain when pleasant weather is observed throughout the archipelago. Bahrain is a desert country, and that means climates are harsh and there are only two main seasons in the year; Summer and Winter. However, there is a small interval of the few months in between where the climate is quite pleasant. Having said that if you are an ardent fan of motorsports, then you will have to plan your trip from March to April since Bahrain plays host to Formula 1.
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Who should visit Bahrain?

History, art and architecture lovers. Water sports enthusiasts. Keen shoppers.

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Bahrain Reviews

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Lakshmi Murali

6 years ago
The Island of Pearls: A smart choice for a quick stop vacation. Rich in Arabic culture, Bahrain has a variety of cultural hubs varying from the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, Bahrain National Museum, Qal'at (Read More)al-Bahrain for the culture junkies. My favorite attraction during my trip to Bahrain was Wahoo- An Indoor Water Theme Park, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Also, the country's shopping destinations ranging from- The Bahrain City Centre, The Avenues, provides the comfort of luxury shopping while The Manama Souq & Malatya Pazari provides an exotic shopping experience. Tips: Try to avail the services of Bahrain Bus to make your trip pocket friendly
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