Exploring the Rich Heritage and Culture of Bahrain
Sophisticated, modern, and cosmopolitan, Bahrain is a kingdom of 33 islands in the Arabian Gulf. It welcomes an increasing number of international tourists who come to experience the country’s fascinating blend of eastern and western cultures.
On the main island, Manama boasts excellent hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, an intriguing souk(bazaar), and all the other facilities visitors need for a great holiday. In addition, there are decent beaches, perennially hot and sunny weather, English is spoken and understood everywhere, and the kingdom has the remnants of more than 5,000 years of civilisation to be explored.
Bahrain is attached to the Arabian Peninsula via a 16-mile (25km) long causeway. During its construction, the islands’ archaeological significance came to light with the discovery of thousands of burial mounds dating from the third millennium BC, part of the well-ordered ancient city of Dilmun that existed where a forest of skyscrapers now reaches for the sky.
Throughout its history, Bahrain has been prosperous, first on the strength of its good position for trade and fishing, and the abundance and quality of the pearls found in its waters, and more latterly because of its oil resources.
Though the government is less stable than in years past, Bahrain is still growing as a popular tourist destination in the Middle East. A visit to Bahrain, whether on business or pleasure, is an interesting, relaxing, and rewarding experience.
Overview
There is plenty to see and do in Bahrain, a country that has a rich history dating back 5000 years from the ancient Dilmun period through the Islamic era. The country offers many beautiful and ancient forts that have been meticulously restored and opened to the public.
A lack of signs and general promotion by the country’s tourist industry sometimes makes finding these sites difficult. Among these is the Bahrain Fort, located roughly two miles (4km) from Manama along the coast of Bahrain, and being one of the largest and most historically significant forts in the country, it has been listed as a World Heritage Site.
For something different, travellers should visit the Jebel Al Dukhan hill, the highest point in Bahrain, named the ‘Mountain of Smoke’ because of the haze that surrounds it on hot days, to truly experience the beautiful and surreal landscapes of the desert.
And while they are in the area, they must surely make a detour to the mysterious Tree of Life, an ancient tree of roughly 400 years standing alone in the desert. These true spectacles of nature, along with the rich culture and history of Bahrain make the nation an intriguing place to visit, with plenty of attractions to keep adventurers busy on their trip to this desert nation.
Climate in Bahrain
Bahrain weather is generally warm and fairly dry. The most pleasant time of year in Bahrain is during spring or autumn when sunshine is virtually guaranteed, along with warm temperatures tempered by soft breezes. Summers can be very hot and humid, though the humidity is modified at the end of the season when a dry northwesterly wind blows, known locally as the ‘Al Barah’. Winter is cooler and influenced by low-pressure systems, which bring rainfall. Average rainfall is low, but most of it falls in winter.
Health Notes when travelling to Bahrain
Proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required for visitors who are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs, and a hepatitis A vaccination is recommended. Medical facilities are good in the main cities, but health insurance is recommended because visitors must pay for treatment. There are many well-stocked pharmacies in the country. Water is deemed clean and safe by the authorities, but visitors usually prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available.
Safety Notes when travelling to Bahrain
Although the crime rate in Bahrain is relatively low, visitors should be aware that along with other states in the Gulf region, the country is at risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda on Western interests. Visitors are advised to be vigilant and avoid public demonstrations. Around 6,000 to 8,000 British nationals live in Bahrain, and thousands more visit each year. The vast majority of visits are trouble free.
Customs in Bahrain
Although it is a liberal state, Bahrain is an Islamic country and many locals find scanty clothing and immoderate public behaviour offensive. Visitors should dress and act respectfully. LGBT travellers should note that while the law doesn’t criminalise same-sex activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years of age, individuals have been punished in the past. Religious and social sensitivities should be observed and respected, especially during religious festivals. Foreigners are not expected to fast during the holy month of Ramadan, but it is considered extremely inconsiderate to eat, drink, or smoke in public during this time.
Duty Free in Bahrain
Travellers to Bahrain over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 250g tobacco (in open packets); perfume up to 237ml; 1 litre alcoholic liquor and 6 cans of beer for non-Muslim passengers only; and gifts to the value of BD 250.
Doing Business in Bahrain
Bahrain is generally more liberal than its Arab neighbours, but businesswomen should nevertheless ensure that they wear conservative clothing and men are expected to wear smart suits and ties. Bahrainis prefer to do business with those whom they have a personal relationship with so a letter of introduction from someone they know is appreciated.
English is used as the language of business, but expect prolonged small talk and personal enquiries before sitting down to do business, as building a trustworthy relationship is important. Rushing a deal and high-pressure sales tactics are frowned upon. Impatience has no place, so plenty of time should be allowed for decision-making.
For meetings, punctuality is important and business cards are routinely handed out to everyone, using both hands and preferably with the Arabic translation on the back of the card face up. It is important to study a received card for a while before putting it away. Formal titles should be used.
Business hours are Sunday to Thursday 7am to 2pm. Most businesses take a break in the afternoon between 1pm and 3pm, but are open later in the evening. During the holy month of Ramadan working hours are reduced.
Communication in Bahrain
The international direct dialling code for Bahrain is +973. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option. Internet is available at most of the larger hotels in Manama.
Tipping in Bahrain
Most restaurants and hotels in Bahrain add a service charge of 10 to 15 percent to their bills. However, you may leave a tip at your discretion. Taxi drivers expect a 10 percent tip and porters will be happy with about 100 fils per item of baggage.
Passport/Visa Note
All persons who wish to enter Bahrain need a visa, except citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). Visas can be obtained on arrival or online at www.evisa.gov.bh. Not all nationalities qualify for visas on arrival. A passport valid for duration of stay is required, but it is recommended that passports be valid for at least six months beyond intended travel. Visitors also require tickets or documentation for return or onward travel as well as proof of sufficient funds and address of stay in Bahrain.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens require a valid passport and a visa (or electronic visa) to enter Bahrain. Single entry Electronic Visas may be obtained online before travel, or a one-month tourist or business visa can be obtained on arrival, with the option to extend this by two weeks.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens require a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a one-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. A two-week extension is possible.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens require a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a three-month visa obtainable on arrival. British passport holders with endorsements other than ‘British Citizen’ should confirm official requirements before travel.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians need a valid passport and a visa, obtainable online (www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a one-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. A two-week extension is possible.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals need a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a three-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealanders require a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a one-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. A two-week extension is possible.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans need a visa and a valid passport to visit Bahrain. Visas are obtainable online prior to travel.
Tourist Offices
Bahrain Tourist Office, Manama: +973 1755 8800 or http://www.btea.bh.
Bahrain Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Bahrain, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 342 1111.
- In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Bahrain, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 020 7201 9170.
Foreign Embassies in Bahrain
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Manama: +973 1724 2700.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 1 488 2288.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Manama: +973 1757 4100.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 11 250 0900.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 1 488 2300.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 1 488 7988.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 1 442 9716.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
