Bahrain : Safety by City
The Kingdom of Bahrain is a Middle Eastern archipelago located in the Persian Gulf, nearby both Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
The country is famous for its petroleum-based economy, but it also boasts a relaxed, cosmopolitan culture that doesn’t exist in its neighboring countries.
It has a social layer to it that sits well with the middle class, which is unheard of in Qatar, for example, a country inhabited only by the rich elite.
If you decide to visit Bahrain, rest assured you will have many things to do.
First of all, the beaches offer warm water all year round, even during winter. The water in Bahrain’s beaches is world-known for being very clear.
Bahrain also offers cultural and historical heritage with many forts and a plethora of museums such as Bahrain Al Oraifi Museum in Muharraq, Beit al Quran in Hoora (famous for its rare collection of Islamic manuscripts).
Visit the famous Tree of Life, special because of its location in the middle of the desert, among all the oil wells and the infrastructure of the petroleum industry.
Warnings & Dangers in Bahrain
OVERALL RISK: HIGH
Even though crime rate in Bahrain is generally low, the petty theft is a real concern in this country. Burglaries have also been known to happen, so it is necessary to remain vigilant.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Apart from the piracy that is a risk for anyone traveling by sea in the Gulf, tourists should bear in mind that transport in general isn't too safe in Bahrain. The roads are filled with reckless drivers who cause accidents regularly, even though the roads are very good. Especially at night, never go driving, because other, local drivers, tend to drive without the headlights on.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpockets are a serious problem in Bahrain, like in the majority of destinations frequented by tourists. Be careful, keep your eyes open in public, crowded areas such as train stations and airports, and keep your valuables close by your side.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
As for natural disasters, you can expect extremely high temperatures, reaching as high as 50C. This is why it is highly recommended that you always carry water with you and maintain hydrated. Sandstorms and thunderstorms are also common.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Muggings and kidnappings haven't been known to happen in Bahrain.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
There is moderate risk of terrorist trying to carry out an attack in Bahrain, as there were numerous terrorist attacks in the Gulf region in recent years. Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
There aren't any known scams performed on tourists regularly in Bahrain, though visitors are still advised to negotiate everything in advance, double check your change and never pay anything upfront.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women, as well as other visitors, should keep in mind the cultural differences in this country, and dress accordingly. However, Bahrain seems to be very safe for solo female travelers. Just apply basic precaution measures to minimize the risk of anything going wrong.
So... How Safe Is Bahrain Really?
Generally speaking, Bahrain is safe to visit, as crime rates in Bahrain are relatively low and violent crime is rare.
And even though this is the case, you shouldn’t let your guard down and relax completely because burglary, petty theft, and robberies are the most common forms of crime in this country.
When outside of your accommodation, it is very important not to wear expensive jewelry or flash around items such as hi-tech devices and cameras on display.
Visitors should always know where their belongings are and if it’s possible, it’s always smart to use the hotel’s safe for any valuables.
Since pickpocketing and other forms of petty theft are so widespread in Bahrain, tourists should consider using a money belt and be particularly careful with passports and other documentation.
When you reach your accommodation, check the lock: when you leave your hotel at night, it’s important to make sure that you are able to lock your hotel door as some hotels have discos that attract fishy faces.
Many tourists have reported their room being burgled so that’s why it is essential that you keep your valuables in the hotel safe or that you make sure your lock works.
Make sure you only use reputable taxis to get around Manama and other towns in Bahrain, as there have been reports of unlicensed cab drivers harassing women at night.
Unlicensed vehicles also overcharge visitors, don’t have meters and drive cabs in a poor driving condition.
How Does Bahrain Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bahrain | 46 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| New Zealand | 90 |
| Hungary | 83 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Singapore | 90 |
| Sweden | 83 |
| Uruguay | 77 |
| Switzerland | 89 |
Useful Information
Visas
Many countries do not need a visa for any stays shorter than 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your planned date of return from Bahrain. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Currency
Bahrain Dinar is the official currency in Bahrain. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and credit cards are accepted in most establishments.
Weather
The climate in Bahrain can be described as desert climate, characterized by mild winters and very hot summers. There are two main seasons: a cooler season that lasts from December to February, and a hot season lasting from April to October,
Airports
Bahrain International Airport is Bahrain's biggest and busiest airport. It is located in Muharraq - an island located 7 km away from the capital.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Bahrain, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
Bahrain Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 20 | 22 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 38 | 39 | 39 | 37 | 34 | 28 | 23 |
| Low °C | 14 | 15 | 18 | 22 | 27 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 29 | 26 | 21 | 17 |
| High °F | 68 | 72 | 77 | 86 | 95 | 100 | 102 | 102 | 99 | 93 | 82 | 73 |
| Low °F | 57 | 59 | 64 | 72 | 81 | 84 | 88 | 88 | 84 | 79 | 70 | 63 |
Bahrain - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Manama | 54 |
Your article on Bahrain contains some errors including:
(a) Bahrain is in the Arabian Gulf
(b) The currency is the dinar, consisting of 1000 fils per dinar
In a Bahraini dinar there are 10 fils.
I lived in Bahrain my hole life and never heard of pick pocketing.
There is no harm of wearing expensive jewelry and hi tech technology because every one around me is doing so, and there are no response in doing so.
please I will like to come and work there can we be friends
If you mean 10 ربيّة as we call it, then yes. What we call a ربيّة is 100 fils, and the Bahraini Dinar consists of 1000 fils, which is 10 ربيّة but not 10 fils.
Persian Gulf!!!!!!!!!!
there is no such a thing as Arabian Gulf Historically speaking
Western Eyewitness
This Persian Gulf island used to be nice but couple of years ago was military invaded by Saudi Arabia because of an uprising by it’s oppressed people, how could it be safe?!
People are thrown in jail for political reasons. Riot police chasing people every so often.
Very unstable country.
What a load of rubbish
You are talking complete rubbish. Lived in Bahrain most my life, including throughout the uprising. Dont cause problems and you wont get problems. Bahrain is a great place.
Bahrain is very safe to travel
Bahrain is an amazing place to travel to.
If anyone’s looking for a couple weeks to relax and enjoy without breaking bank, then Bahrain is the perfect place.
The beaches are welcoming of foreigners who wish to sunbath
Theres a lot of amazing eateries thats high in quality and affordable in rates.
Many malls to shop your hearts content.
Its safe for women travellers, yes there are a few creeps, but they are mostly not the locals but other travellers from neighboring countries.
Crime rates in the country is extremely low.
And the report of possible terrorist threat is utter BS!
Every religion co exist peacefully in this gem of a nation.
This article is very misleading.
Not as bad as its rated
Im not sure when you wrote that but, i live in bahrain and now there aren’t any problems politically, and now its way better than before, and even then when there were problems, as long as you dont go to known areas that has violence with the police you should be fine, now there arent any problems even deep down Sitra which was known for its violence. Saudi arabia did come and we saw them with their military vehicles but as long as you dont do anything bad nothing will happen, and that was maybe 4 years ago, its 2019 now, pick pockets are rare compared to Europe, I’ve visited Europe and its way worse to be honest, and the chances of a terrorist attack is low like come on, you shouldnt be afraid of a terrorist attack. So in general, its a very safe country, i’ve witnessed robbery’s and crimes in front of my eyes in europe and i was there for a short time, i lived for my whole life in bahrain and i barly see any crimes in my experience at least.
Jobs in Baharia
What of Jobs in Baharia for Foreigners@?
So true , Bahrain has rare crimes .
I disagree with this article
This article is really exaggerating the situation. Bahrain is a really safe place to be whether you are from here, or not. As a Bahraini woman I feel safe to drive at any time and go places on my own. Like any country, be smart about your belongings and don’t put yourself in a potentially risky situation by walking into a dark alley by yourself. The roads are very well lit in almost all places and overall the people are extremely friendly and helpful if you get lost or need road side assistance. Also, the fact that this article talks about theft around train stations makes me laugh because there are no trains in Bahrain!
Thanks very much Amna, that’s how they paint people and countries bad.
I am just planning to visit and carry a study of wind energy in bahrain.dear sister thx for sharing the information.
Thank you.
Working abroad
Hi Amna, am Modesta , I love the way you talk about your country I would love to live and work there too…any guidelines or help from you. By the way am an Architect. Thanks
Beautiful and fun place, just be cautious
Most locals are very friendly. Women should never travel alone. You will get stared at by every man, and glared at by every woman. Very uncomfortable. Beautiful country, lots to enjoy. Never let your guard down, and negotiate every price. Drivers are more offensive than defensive, be careful. Uber is a great alternative. Seriously, if you are a woman, do NOT travel without a male counterpart. Even if you can bench press 315lbs and are a hardcore feminist, there are some certain situations that get a little sketchy. Overall, it was a great experience. Locals are mostly friendly towards everybody, but on the weekends some visitors come in from other surrounding countries…not all too friendly. Would definitely come back
This article l and all ratings are false! Bahrain is one of the safest counties in the region and world for tourism and making business.
Bahrain is a safe country, this article just wants to make Bahrain guilty in its crime.
This article has some information that is fake .
Evidence: Bahrain has never had trains.
Im honestly laughing to myself about how racist these people are.
This article has lot of errors and wrong info. Bahrain is really safe. People are courteous and helpful. Very safe for wome. I love bahrain
You will love Bahrain!
Very inaccurate article in general.
How do you assign an overall risk rating of HIGH when none of the specific risks exceed MEDIUM.
In nearly 50 years of living and visiting Bahrain I never once heard of someone being pickpocketed.
I can GUARANTEE that won’t happen in the train station (as there are no trains in Bahrain).
Sandstorms are rare; thunderstorms are occasional.
Visitors should always exercise a degree of caution when traveling. That is all that is necessary in Bahrain which is far safer than many countries you rank higher.
I want to live in Behrain
Is there any work opportunities for foreigners??
All in all,U will love Bahrain!!!
I am living in Bahrain for almost 7 years. I haven’t heard of any criminal attacks/things. It’s the safest country. Anyone can go alone, anywhere, particularly women, they can go anywhere, anytime. I disagree with this statement. And there are no terrorists in Bahrain. U marked as MEDIUM, but we say very LOW!!!
Please Isaac inbox me via Okonkwoprosperchisom@gmail.com…want to confirm something from you about the country ..please sire
Please can I contact you through your e-mail?
Olawumi
Hello Mr. Isaac pls I need your assistance with this country. I would be glad to hear from you soon, thanks.
HI AM PLANNING TO COME TO BAHRAIN FOR JOB OPPORTUNITY. I WISH TO KNOW THE EMPLOYMENT RATE AND STANDARD OF LIVING
Tell about your experience or leave a tip for other I wan to visit Bahrain in search of a job is there any job opportunity for foreigners.
Good Bahrain
Bahrain is a Safe country indeed I went there 11 times in the last 20 years and saw nothing bad happen
Please I will like to visit Bahrain. I need a job, foreigner is allow to work in Bahrain.
Please I like to visit Bahrain an I will like to have job there
Please is there job opportunities for the the foreigners in Bahrain
this has made me recondisder this entire sites credibility.
Dont trust anything on this page. Bahrain is safe as of writing this comment. very dissapionted i used to use this site to plan my visits to other countries then decided to check my own countries safety level. from what i read this site is not a dependable place for your travel safety information.this has made me recondisder this entire sites credibility.
Beautiful Island
I was born in Bahrain and lived there over 25 years. it’s the most beautiful place in the world. Every country has its pitfalls. It’s a monarchy so it is run differently. I made my life in Bahrain. If you are negligent you will face trouble in any country. Bahrain is quite liberal and westernised.
it has an old world charm souq. My childhood memories are awesome. Theft; robbery is minimal compared to most other countries. The people are friendly. The country is clean.
The political situation is now under control. I would go back to Bahrain in the blink of an eye. I love my birth place.
I live in Bahrain for 12 years and I never heard of a single crime or pick pocketing or anything like this. Btw there are no trains in Bahrain and no terrorists. Bahrain for me is way safer than Europe and America. I would advice you to travel/live to/in Bahrain because you will have a job, have a quality and cheap apartments and hotels. I was upset about the high rate of overall risk when nothing was above MEDIUM.
I want travel to Bahrain, but do you have zambians living in Bahrain would like to know because there is no embassy fir zambau
Such a misleading and incorrect article, whoever wrote this should give up their job in journalism unless they research correctly.
A
In simple terms you are much Safer here than Uk and Europe regardless if you are a man or a woman or child.
I have never felt safer after 10 years here .
Safe and cheap
I am living in Bahrain from last 7 years. If I compared this article to this year i.e. 2021 I can say that it’s pretty safe to visit and travel anytime. As mentioned by everyone, there are no trains yet in Bahrain. Because of pandemic, most of the months it’s lockdown but still all the necessary things are available. Government really care of everyone here and people are good. Like every other country business got hit due to covid so job opportunities are less. Before pandemic, weekends are very busy as people come here from different countries especially Saudi people as there are lot of options here for entertainment. Crime is very very rare and in my experience women can also travel anytime. Local taxis might fool you so better go for uber. Public transport is safe and cheap. Just rent a car and in one week you can see the entire country as it’s very small. I love Bahrain 😊
Am already prepared to live and work in Bahrain,how safe is the country
Bahrain is amazing!
Bahrain is the safest place I’ve lived in my 20 years in the military! In total I’ve spent 7 years on the island and NEVER had an issue. The petty crime happens in the clubs, keep your valuables close, and via traffic accidents. If I was a woman I probably wouldn’t travel alone. UBER should be your primary transportation and it’s EXTREMELY cheap compared to the US. Not a vacation destination during the summer, but from November to April it’s nice. Ramadan needs to be taken into consideration if you plan on a visit, lots of customs need to be adhered to.
Im a christian. Will i be threatened in bahrain because of my religion ?
Nope, it’s a religiously tolerant place.
A true hidden gem in the Gulf!
It is truly one of the safest places in the world. Unlike their gulf neighbors, Bahrainis are exceptionally tolerant and weep accustomed to immigrants and their expatriates. The island has been a trading hub for centuries, hence its citizens have developed an international & cosmopolitan mindset whilst maintaining their heritage and identity. They are know for their hospitality and the genuine interest in other people. A place of commerce, culture, entertainment and hospitality. Bahrain is the home known to be a home for a diverse ethnicities and religions even among its citizen. Here are things you need to know:
1- A very high HDI and literacy rate. Almost all local speak and write English as well as other language such as Farsi or Hindi/Urdu.
2- Shia & Sunni mosques can be found side by side with churches and hindu temples.
3- large number of the expats call Bahrain home.
4- Immigrants and expats interacts and establish relationships with locals unlike other gulf counties.
5- Dinning and entertainment range from cheap quality eats to international fine dining and luxury entertainment.
6- People are generally friendly, trustworthy and compassionate.
7- World class schools such as, St. Christopher’s, British School, Bahrain School, as well as specialized schools like the French school, Indian school, Pakistani school and so on.
8- World class strategically located international airport.
9- Alcohol is accessible for purchase and many dine in restaurants as well as night clubs, bars and private clubs.
10- Women in leadership positions across several industry including the government. one of the most progressive countries in the Middle East for women’s equality and advancement. It is a diverse and more religiously liberal country in comparison with some of her neighbors. Legally, Bahraini women are recognized in the Bahraini Constitution as equal to Bahraini men in political, social, cultural and economic spheres of life. Just like the rest of the world, activism is for more female empowerment programs and reform are needed.
What part is good to stay and work, I plan to come and work but do not really know the place to stay in bahrain, where the rent are cheap too and where I can locate Rotary Club. Please I need your advice….
Job Opportunities
In what currency does Bahrain paid foreigners. And is it safe to stay and work because I got a job opportunities in Bahrain. I’m aware it’s an Islamic country, do they maltreat foreigners?
Animals
it’s not safe anymore, especially for animals. they kill dogs by shooting them in Bahrain national guard. they ignore expert advice on how to deal with friendly homeless dogs so they collect dogs in an industrial zone then shoot them. It’s all really beyond horrific. and threaten the animals’ activities…
I am an indian you can’t be safe if you are a single woman anywhere u go alone u can see dirty men sticking their tongue out, winking at you making ugly signs.. If they know you are a foreigner they can even go to another level of calling you out with a bad intention. There is no much places to see.. Tourist point of view I think it’s not that great of a place.
Job Opportunity and Communication
There have really been no replies on job opportunities in Bahrain. Please this is very important. How easy can a new immigrant get a job and what kind of jobs should be expected to be available especially initially? Someone should reply pls.
Secondly, do Bahrainis communicate well in English?
To answer your second question, yes, most Bahraini’s speak English fluently. Though we do appreciate the extra effort of foreigners trying to learn basic Arabic phrases.
Not a good time for expats in the job market unfortunately, there’s been increasing preference to hire Bahraini’s in all sectors as unemployment is high.
My husband is from Bahrain. I have visited many times over the years alone to get to him and then he had surgery and o was along with our kids walking to the store and in the mall. People did stare but it felt like a cultural difference state rather than a nasty stare. Everyone there is so kind and very accepting. Inshallah we will be back someday soon to stay for good. Bahrain feels like home❤️