Bahrain

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains)
• Commercial flights

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common in some areas. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• The U.S. embassy restricts its employees from traveling to specific areas where protest activity is more likely. It advises all U.S. citizens to do the same. Review the embassy’s website for travel restrictions and security updates.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. Remain alert to local security developments.
• Demonstrations sometimes result in temporary road closures.
• The Ministry of Interior maintains official checkpoints. They will deploy crowd control agents against demonstrators if they determine that the protest becomes unsafe.
• Demonstrators occasionally burn tires, throw rocks, or lob Molotov cocktails in specific neighborhoods at night.
• No U.S. citizens have been specifically targeted during protest activity. Local media outlets have sometimes expressed anti-U.S. sentiment, and demonstrators have sometimes burned U.S. flags. 

Crime

The crime rate in Bahrain is low, and violent crime is rare.

• Thieves and pickpockets are known to operate in the old market (souq) area of Manama.
• Take common sense precautions to stay safe.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Bahrain: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drone use is regulated in Bahrain. Consult the Government of Bahrain’s webpage on Drones for more information.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs are severe, including long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Penalties for public drunkenness, disorderly behavior, or driving under the influence include imprisonment or heavy fines. Any sign of alcohol consumption may be taken as evidence of driving under the influence.
• Penalties for using vulgar language or hand gestures may include heavy fines or criminal charges.
• It is illegal to photograph certain buildings in Bahrain.
• Extra-marital sexual relations are a criminal offense. If a child is born out of wedlock, obtaining a civil birth certificate is extremely difficult. Sometimes, while rare, this may lead to the deportation of the mother and the child. Without a birth certificate, getting a passport for the child can be difficult. Additionally, transmission of citizenship is typically through the father. You may contact the embassy for more information.
• Always carry a form of identification with you, such as a passport, local ID card (Central Population Registry card), or driver’s license.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Bahrain seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 
• Review our embassy website for a list of local lawyers.

Dual nationality

• Bahrain does not recognize dual nationality, though some exceptions are made. Bahraini dual nationals are required to declare and register their second nationality with the government.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no explicit legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations. All extra-marital sexual relations are a criminal offense.
• Gay and lesbian activities are not accepted within the local society. Some travelers have had issues entering Bahrain if their gender expression doesn’t align with their assigned sex at birth.
• ·Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Bahrain prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

Women traveling alone should stay aware of their surroundings.

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Emergency numbers

• Dial 999 for emergency medical services. 

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. Ambulances are usually staffed with a paramedic, but the response time of emergency responders may poor.

• Ambulances have limited advanced medical equipment compared with U.S. standard.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Many medical facilities require payment up front before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Some hospitals have very limited direct billing capability for insurance carriers. Billing and insurance practices vary.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Infectious disease considerations

• The Kingdom of Bahrain has restrictions for individuals with HIV and AIDS, Hepatitis B or C.
• Treatment for these conditions can be restricted to Bahraini citizens only.
• Health facilities are required to report HIV-positive expatriates to the Ministry of Health.
• Expatriates may face deportation or expulsion from Bahrain if medical authorities discover evidence of their HIV status. This is even if they are well controlled on medication or do not require treatment.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Check with the Customs Affairs of Bahrain to ensure the medication is legal in Bahrain.
• Most narcotic painkillers, stimulants, and controlled sedatives or hypnotics are not easily available and may be illegal.
• Do not bring CBD oil or products to Bahrain.
• Travelers with HIV and AIDS should carry enough medication to cover their intended stay. Pharmacies will not sell HIV and AIDS medication to non-Bahraini citizens without a permit from the Ministry of Health. Health facilities and pharmacies are required to report HIV-positive foreigners to the Ministry of Health. This could lead to deportation. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• There are restrictions for receiving IVF treatment in Bahrain. Surrogacy is illegal in Bahrain.
• If you are considering traveling to Bahrain to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Bahrain.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• Review the Medicine and Health.

Transportation

Emergency phone numbers

• For minor accidents with no injuries, dial 199. 
• For accidents involving an injury, dial 999.
• For the traffic department’s main switchboard, dial 1787-2222. 

 Road conditions and safety

• Road travel is generally safe. Highways and major roads in northern Bahrain are wide and well maintained.
• Roads in villages and older parts of Manama and Muharraq are narrow, congested, and twisting.
• Traffic is more congested on the weekends with an influx of vehicles from neighboring countries.

Traffic laws

• You must have a valid U.S. driver’s license to drive in Bahrain. A valid International Driving Permit is also recommended and may be required for rental cars. Traffic moves on the right.
• At roundabouts (traffic circles), cars within the traffic circle have the right of way over those attempting to enter.
• Drivers frequently speed despite heavy penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment.
• Police can detain drivers for traffic violations.
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving, though it is very common.
• Drivers are required to wear seat belts.

Traffic accidents

• In the event of major single and multi-car accidents, do not move the vehicle until you have filed a report with the traffic police. If you move the car, insurance companies may deny coverage.
• For minor accidents with no injuries, move your vehicle off the road to avoid further accidents. You do not have to wait at the scene for the police.
• You must file a report within 24 hours of the accident.
• If an accident results in legal proceedings, both drivers may be prohibited from leaving the country until the matter is resolved. The traffic police will ask you to provide an identity card or document (passport), a driver’s license, and a mobile number to complete the accident report.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride-share apps are generally safe to use in Bahrain.
• Taxis are available in Bahrain and are typically arranged by phone. Some rideshare apps also work in Bahrain.

Public and commercial transportation

• Bahrain has a public bus system that extends throughout most of the country. A car is still needed to access most locations.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. 
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Bahrain should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Bahrain has an arid, desert climate. It experiences extremely hot and humid summers from April to October. It has cool and mild winters from November to March with limited rainfall.
• Dust or sandstorms, drought, and flooding are the most likely natural disasters to happen in Bahrain.

Embassies and consulates