Bahrain Travel Safety

Road safety

Road conditions are very good throughout the country. Drivers, however, are often aggressive. Drifting sands and roaming animals can pose hazards. In the event of an accident resulting in injuries, do not move your vehicle until a report has been filed, even if the vehicle impedes traffic. If there are injuries, call 999. If there are no injuries, call 199. Off-road driving can be hazardous. Only go off-road driving in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles and with an experienced guide. Leave your itinerary with a family member or friend. Be well prepared, and carry extra gasoline, water, food and a cellular phone. Taxis are generally safe. Use only officially marked taxis. Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged.

Regional travel

When travelling in the Middle East, immigration officials may increase their scrutiny of your passport and question its authenticity, due to incidents of possible misuse. The Government of Bahrain has implemented measures restricting the entry of Qatari citizens and foreign residents of Qatar into Bahrain. If you are a resident of Qatar, contact diplomatic representatives of Bahrain to confirm current entry requirements.

Marine transportation

There is a curfew in effect on the waterways around Bahrain from 6 PM to 4 AM. Vessels operating in these waters may be detained and inspected, even outside curfew hours. Exercise increased caution when travelling by dhow (small sailboat).

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. In addition, don't flash money or valuables in public. Doing so may make you a potential victim of criminal activity.

Crime

Petty crime, such as purse snatching and pickpocketing, occurs. Violent crime is rare. Exercise caution in the old market areas (souks), villages and poorer districts, especially after dark.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Targets could include: government buildings, public areas, tourist areas (such as hotels, bars and nightclubs). Increased security measures are currently in place and may be reinforced upon short notice. Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places.

Dress and behaviour

Bahrains customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. For example, women should cover their arms and legs, and men should not wear shorts in public. Bahraini attitudes regarding alcohol are not favourable. During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. You may be subject to heavy fines if showing disrespect toward officials by making verbal insults and obscene gestures.

LGBT

Bahraini law doesn't criminalise same sex-activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years of age, although sodomy is illegal. Bahrain is a liberal country compared with most others in the region, but many Bahrainis hold conservative social views. There are some reported cases of individuals punished for same-sexual activity, but in practice arrests for homosexual behaviour are relatively rare. The Bahraini government does not recognize same-sex marriage, and LGBT travellers may be prosecuted under morality or public decency laws.

Illegal or restricted activities

Alcohol is available for purchase by non-Muslims at special stores. Observe restrictions concerning the consumption of alcohol. Excessive drinking while in transit through a Bahraini airport could lead to detention and a fine. Do not take photographs of buildings or individuals without prior authorization. Avoid physical contact, such as holding hands with another adult, in public.

Identification

Under Bahraini law, it's an offence not to be able to present photographic ID if you're asked to do so by a member of the Bahraini authorities, and you may be subject to a fine of up to 300 BHD.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended. There is a zero-tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving.