Frequently Asked Questions about Bahrain

Yes, a visa is required for most foreign nationals. Citizens of almost all countries can apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) to Bahrain in advance or obtain a visa on arrival.

The e-Visa allows you to stay in Bahrain from 14 to 90 days with the possibility of single or multiple entries. The exact duration of validity and stay on the visa is determined by the Bahraini consular service when reviewing the application based on the data provided.

Health insurance is recommended for traveling to Bahrain. Although insurance is not a requirement for entry, it will help cover medical expenses in case of illness or accident.

Bahrain is considered a safe country for tourists with a low crime rate. However, as in any other country, normal precautions should be observed, especially in public places.

Bahrain has a hot and dry climate with mild winters and very hot summers, when temperatures often exceed 40°C. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is more comfortable.

The official language of Bahrain is Arabic, but English is widely used in business and tourist environments as well as among the population.

The F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain usually takes place in March. The exact dates may vary each year as they depend on the Formula-1 season calendar. It is recommended to check the official F1 calendar or the event website closer to the beginning of the year for up-to-date date information.

To obtain a visa on arrival in Bahrain you will need:

• A valid passport - it must be valid for at least six months at the time of entry.
• Round-trip tickets or confirmation of onward itinerary.
• Proof of hotel booking or accommodation address.
• Means of accommodation - proof of financial solvency.
• Health insurance (recommended).

Conditions may vary depending on the country of citizenship, so it is better to clarify the requirements before traveling. We recommend applying for a visa to Bahrain in advance to avoid possible difficulties and delays at entry.

The Bahraini dinar (BHD) is used in Bahrain. One dinar is divided into 1,000 fils.

For payment you can use:

• Cash in local currency.
• Credit and debit cards, which are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shopping centers.
• Mobile payments via international systems such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, available at major outlets.

Currency exchange can be done at banks, airports and exchange offices.

Bahrain offers some great places for a beach vacation:

• Al Dar Islands is a private island with white sands and crystal clear waters. Here you can relax, swim, do water sports and rent a vacation hut.
• Marassi Beach is a modern beach with convenient infrastructure, restaurants and activity areas, popular with families and tourists.
• Bahrain Bay Beach is an urban beach with beautiful views of the city, ideal for walks by the water and beach vacations within Manama.

Bahrain has a well-developed transportation system. The main modes of transportation include buses, cabs and rented cars. Bicycles and scooters are also available for short trips. Manama International Airport is connected to the city by buses and cabs.

In Bahrain, it is important to observe local traditions and customs, such as respecting religious and cultural norms. Clothing should be modest, especially in public places. Public displays of affection and consumption of alcohol outside authorized areas are discouraged.

A few key sights worth visiting in Bahrain include Fort Bahrain, an ancient archaeological complex; the Al-Fatiha Mosque, one of the largest in the world; the Bahrain National Museum, where you can learn about the country's history; and the Tree of Life, a symbol of endurance in the desert.

Bahrain offers several traditional dishes that reflect the richness of the local cuisine. Among them:

• Mahbous is a spicy rice dish with meat or fish, often flavored with saffron and other spices. It is served with salad and sauce.
• Kebab - kebabs of meat, usually grilled, served with bread and vegetables.
• Falefel - fried bean balls with spicy herbs, usually served with hummus and salad.
• Malfouf - stuffed grape leaves with rice and meat, which have a rich flavor.
• Tahini - Sesame paste, often used as a dip or addition to dishes.

In Bahrain, photography in public places is generally permitted, but there are a few important nuances. It is important to respect people's privacy and avoid taking pictures in places where it may be prohibited, such as mosques or military installations. It is also advisable to ask permission from locals before photographing them. It is important to be careful and follow local customs to avoid misunderstandings.

There are many interesting souvenirs to bring back from Bahrain that reflect the local culture and traditions. Here are some of them:

• Persian carpets: unique handmadecarpets that will be an exquisite addition to the interior.
• Spices: local spices and aromatic herbs for cooking.
• Dates: sweet and juicy dates, often packaged in beautiful boxes.
• Arabic perfumes: fragrances based on natural ingredients such as oud and rose.
• Ceramics: a variety of items, including plates and bowls, with traditional patterns.
• Costume jewelry: gold and silver jewelry, as well as unique pearl jewelry.

In Bahrain, excellent local food can be found in traditional markets (sukkahs) and restaurants specializing in Bahraini cuisine. Popular places include Haji's Café in Manama, which serves fresh local produce, and markets such as Bab Al Bahrain, where you can sample local specialties.