Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Bahrain due to terrorism. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
[973] 1724-2700; US Embassy Manama, Bldg. 979, Road 3119, Block 331, Zinj, PO Box 26431, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain; https://bh.usembassy.gov/; ManamaConsular@state.gov
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
973
Local Emergency Phone
999
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bahrain: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Arid; mild, pleasant winters and very hot, humid summers
Currency (Code)
Dinars (BHD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G
Major Languages
Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu
Major Religions
Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Baha'i
Time Difference
UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Adhari Park; Al Areen Wildlife Park; Manama (includes National Museum, Al Khamis Mosque, Al-Qudaibiya Palace); The Tree of Life; Arad Fort; Qal'at al-Bahrain- ancient harbor & capital of Dilmun
Major Sports
Soccer, mixed martial arts, cricket, car racing
Cultural Practices
If the meal is on the floor, sit cross-legged or kneel on one knee. Never let your feet touch the food mat and avoid pointing the soles of your feet at others. Eat only with the right hand as the left hand is considered unclean in Islam.
Tipping Guidelines
While there is often a 10% service charge at restaurants, it is still customary to leave a 10% tip for wait staff. Taxi drivers expect a 10% tip and porters will be happy with about 100 dinars per bag.
Souvenirs
Red-clay pottery, handwoven cloth, pearls/pearl jewelry, luxury goods
Traditional Cuisine
Bahrain's traditional food includes fish, meat, rice, and dates. One of the most famous Bahraini dishes is machboos, which is made up of meat or fish served with rice. Another known food is muhammar which is sweet rice served with dates or sugar.
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Monday, November 06, 2023
