Group trips to Bahrain

Find out the entry requirements for Bahrain, and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Bahrain – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Bahrain is in the Arabian Standard Time (AST) zone, which is UTC+3. Bahrain does not observe daylight saving time.

If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 3pm in Bahrain. If it is 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 7pm in Bahrain. Keep this in mind when planning your calls or meetings.

In Bahrain, the currency used is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). As of the latest exchange rates:

• 1 British Pound (GBP) equals approximately 0.50 Bahraini Dinars
• 1 US Dollar (USD) equals about 0.38 Bahraini Dinars
• 1 Euro (EUR) is around 0.42 Bahraini Dinars

You can exchange currency at local banks, exchange offices, or at the airport.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Bahrain, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It's always a good idea to have some cash for smaller shops or markets. ATMs are available throughout the country and offer an easy way to withdraw local currency, the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). Remember to inform your bank of your travels to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Tipping in Bahrain is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, it's common to leave around 10 to 15 percent of the bill as a tip if the service charge is not included. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is a nice gesture. Hotel staff such as bellboys and housekeepers will also appreciate a small tip for their services. Remember, tipping is at your discretion and based on the quality of service you receive.

In Bahrain, buying a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan is a good idea for consistent internet access. Major providers include Batelco, Zain, and STC Bahrain. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and shopping malls, but for on-the-go connectivity, a local SIM is handy. Data speeds are generally good, and you'll find 4G coverage in most areas.

In Bahrain, the official language spoken is Arabic. However, English is widely used, especially in business and tourism. Here are some useful Arabic expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Marhaba
• Thank you: Shukran
• Please: Min fadlak (to a male) / Min fadlik (to a female)
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La

These phrases can be handy while interacting with locals during your visit.

In Bahrain, you'll use Type G plugs, which are the same as those used in the UK. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you're coming from a country that uses a different plug type, we suggest bringing a universal adapter to keep your devices charged and ready.

In Bahrain, the main religion is Islam, with the majority of the population being Muslim. While visiting, it's important to respect local customs, especially around religious sites. For women, modest clothing is recommended, such as covering shoulders and knees.

Important religious holidays to be aware of include:

• Ramadan: A month of fasting from dawn to sunset.
• Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan with feasts and gatherings.
• Eid al-Adha: Known as the Feast of Sacrifice, it involves special prayers and meals.

When packing for Bahrain, you should prepare for a warm climate and consider cultural norms. Here's a breakdown of what to pack in your backpack:

Clothing:

• Light, breathable tops
• Long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
• Lightweight pants or skirts
• A light jacket for cooler evenings
• Modest swimwear for beaches or pools

Shoes:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals for the beach
• Dress shoes for evening outings

Accessories and Technology:

• Sunglasses
• A hat or cap
• Power bank for devices
• Camera or smartphone
• Universal adapter for plugs type G, 230V, 50Hz

Toiletries and Medication:

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Basic first aid kit
• Travel-sized toiletries
• Common travel medications like ibuprofen, antihistamines

Keep in mind Bahrain's warm weather and cultural customs, especially if visiting religious sites, where more modest attire is appreciated.

Bahrain has a desert climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

• Summer (June to September): Very hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). It's best to avoid visiting during these months unless you enjoy the heat.
• Winter (December to February): Mild and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F). This is the best time to visit Bahrain.
• Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November): Warm, with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it another pleasant time to explore the country.