Safety and security

Crime

Crime remains relatively low in Bahrain but you should take sensible precautions: 

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place;
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home;
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don’t use ATMs after dark, especially if you’re alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business;
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible; and
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.

Reporting crime

If you are a victim of a crime while in Bahrain, report it to the local police immediately. If you require further assistance, you can contact the Irish Embassy in Riyadh.

Driving

If you’re planning to drive in Bahrain, you should be extremely careful. Unsafe driving practices, roaming animals and drifting sands can make driving hazardous, and off-road driving can be particularly dangerous. Always make sure your vehicle is well equipped and properly maintained. If you want to drive:

• Bring your Irish and/or international driving licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance;
• There is zero tolerance to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught;
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights; and

Hiring a vehicle

If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you are allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms. 

Alcohol

It’s against the law for any Muslim to purchase alcohol from retail outlets.  There is zero tolerance for drunk driving.

Local culture

Bahrain is a relatively liberal state in comparison to other countries in the region.  But some Bahrainis may find scanty clothing or immoderate behaviour in public offensive. It is best to dress conservatively, except within the confines of hotels or clubs, at least until you know your way around, and avoid public displays of affection.

Hotels may refuse accommodation to couples unable to provide proof of marriage.

Muslim culture

Bahrain is a Muslim country so be sure to observe and respect religious and social sensitivities, especially during Ramadan as well as during other religious festivals when black flags and banners may be in evidence. Bahrainis observe a number of religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in other Gulf countries.

LGBT

While Bahraini law does not criminalise same sex-activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years of age, sodomy is illegal and same sex activities are not socially accepted.  Given prevailing conservative attitudes in the region, caution and discretion are advised at all times. 

Forbidden products

You should not bring DVDs into the country, as these may be withheld on arrival at the airport.

Business activities

If you’re involved in commercial disputes with Bahraini companies or individuals, you may be prevented from leaving the country until the dispute is resolved.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

All travellers to Bahrain face increased scrutiny from the Bahraini authorities and a number have been refused entry. Visitors must have legal status when they depart and may incur heavy fines if they overstay or fail to extend their legal residency.

Visas

If you are unsure of the entry requirements for Bahrain, including visa and other immigration information, ask your travel agent or contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bahrain.

It is possible to obtain a visa on arrival but to ensure a smoother process at the border in it is best to get a visa in advance, either online or from the nearest the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

On arrival in Bahrain, visitors can be issued visas for 24 hours, 72 hours, 2 weeks or 3 months, depending on their need and at the discretion of the Immigration Officer. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel. If you enter as a visitor you must not take up employment.  Business travellers and journalists must obtain a visa before travelling.

Passports

Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date of entry into Bahrain.

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you.  During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.

Exit requirements

You must have legal status in Bahrain when you leave. You may be prevented from leaving Bahrain if you are subject to a travel ban, involved in legal proceedings, have unpaid debt, or are a child subject to a custody dispute. You can be fined if you overstay or fail to extend your legal residency.