Bahrain

Use High Level of Caution

Bahrain is an island nation in the Persian Gulf, connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Faud Causeway, and near Qatar across the Gulf of Bahrain. The nation is an archipelago of about 36 islands, and the largest island is Bahrain Island. The population is about 1,235,000 people.

Bahrain's government is a constitutional monarchy. The king is the chief of state, and the head of government is a prime minister appointed by the king.

Bahrain has been known for oil and petroleum processing. The country has also been known for pearls. Off-shore freshwater springs allowed the formation of pearls which was a source of the country's early wealth.

Currency	BHD: Bahraini dinar
Language	Arabic. English, Urdu, and Farsi are also commonly spoken.
Capital	Manama
Recent Alerts	2
Latest Alert	July 21, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Bahrain (21 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Bahrain. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A There is a risk of hepatitis A virus exposure in Bahrain through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Bahrain.
Typhoid Fever There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever through contaminated food and water in Bahrain, especially in smaller cities, villages, or rural areas and when staying with friends or relatives.
Yellow Fever There is no risk of yellow fever in this country. However, this country requires all persons 9 months of age or older to have proof of the yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if transiting for more than 12 hours in an airport in a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies Rabies occurs in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Bahrain.

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Yellow Fever Vaccine There is no risk of yellow fever in this country. However, this country requires all persons 9 months of age or older to have proof of the yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if transiting for more than 12 hours in an airport in a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies Vaccine Travellers involved in outdoor and other activities that might bring them into direct contact with dogs, bats and other mammals (such as campers, hikers, adventure travellers and cavers), as well as travellers with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wild life professionals and researchers), and long-term travellers and expatriates should be vaccinated.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Bahrain.

None required.

Safety and Security in Bahrain

Emergency Numbers

999

112 International emergency number

Personal Safety

Most travellers to Bahrain do not experience any safety and security problems.

While violent crime is rare, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur. Visitors should be especially vigilant in old market areas (souks), village areas, and poorer districts, particularly after dark. Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as expensive clothing, and ensure that belongings, passports, and other documents are kept secure and out of sight at all times.

There have been reports of women being harassed, particularly those travelling alone. Women should take cues from the local women - dress conservatively and maintain a formal demeanour at all times.

Although same-sex sexual relations are not illegal, LGBTI travellers may face severe discrimination. All travellers should avoid open displays of affection due to the conservative nature of the country.

Travellers should take note of whether they will be travelling during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this time, respect the religious practices of the country and avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Always dress conservatively to respect local sensitivities

Road travel may be dangerous due to reckless driving and animals and sand drifts on roadways.

Extreme Violence

There continues to be a high terrorist threat in Bahrain. Travellers should monitor the news and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Political Unrest

Demonstrations and protests do occur in Bahrain due to political and religious tensions. All political gatherings, crowds and demonstrations should be avoided since they are illegal and could become violent. The Shia-majority areas are particularly prone to protests and demonstrations.

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Sitata uses advanced software algorithms to monitor the world for disease outbreaks and safety hazards. Each travel alert published by Sitata is reviewed by staff to ensure it meets the concerns of a traveller.

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Updated: July 21, 2021