Bahraini embassies

• Embassy of Bahrain, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 342 1111

• Embassy of Bahrain, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7201 9170

Foreign embassies in Bahrain

• United States Embassy, Manama: +973 1724 2700

• British Embassy, Manama: +973 1757 4100

• Canadian Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 11 202 3288 

• Australian Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain):  +966 11 250 0900

• South African Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 11 442 9716

• Irish Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 11 407 1530

• New Zealand Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also responsible for Bahrain): +966 11 488 7988

Bahrain's economy took a knock following the pandemic but it is recovering and growing gradually once again. It is heavily reliant on petroleum and aluminium production and remains one of the most important centres for Islamic banking in the Middle East. Expats relocating here can look forward to dealing with banking services that are efficient and reliable.

Money in Bahrain

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

• Notes: ½ BHD, 1 BHD, 5 BHD, 10 BHD and 20 BHD

• Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 fils

With a strong and sophisticated banking industry, there are a number of good options for expats looking for a local bank in Bahrain. For those who prefer to bank internationally, there are also a host of foreign and multinational banks with branches in Bahrain.

Banks that are popular with expats in Bahrain include Arab Bank, HSBC Bahrain, Ahli United Bank, Citibank and Bank of Bahrain & Kuwait (BBK). Many expats find it easier and more convenient to open a bank account with the bank their employer uses.

Opening hours for banks in Bahrain conform to Islamic culture and are generally between 7.30am and 2.30pm, from Sunday to Thursday.

Opening a bank account in Bahrain

Expats are likely to find that opening a bank account in Bahrain is a bit more of a hassle than in other Gulf countries, as the process is stringently administered and requires a lot of paperwork.

Expats looking to open a bank account in Bahrain must appear at the prospective bank in person, and present a number of documents. The exact requirements vary from bank to bank, but a passport, work and/or residence permit, and proof of residence (such as a utility bill or rental agreement) will usually be required.

ATMs and credit cards in Bahrain

There are plenty of ATMs in Bahrain and expats won't need to look too hard to find one. The majority of ATMs offer 24-hour service, and expats withdrawing cash using a bank card issued by any Bahraini bank will incur no charges at the machines.

Although Bahrain has been a predominantly cash-based society in the past, they are moving away from this. Expats will be able to pay with a debit or credit card almost anywhere now, with many establishments also allowing the use of online payment apps. 

Taxes in Bahrain

One of the great incentives for expats moving to Bahrain is that there is either extremely little personal or income tax levied against their salary each month, or none at all.

Before getting too excited, expats are strongly advised to research whether a double-taxation avoidance agreement exists between Bahrain and their country of origin though. If not, expats will have to pay tax in their country of origin on the money they earn in Bahrain.

Expats anticipating doing business in Bahrain will find an environment that's well acquainted with foreign influence, and arguably the most liberal in the Middle East. Nearly 50 percent of Bahrain's population is made up of foreigners, but the country takes its mandate from Islam, and expats will need to familiarise themselves with appropriate customs and practices.

Fast facts

Business hours

Usually Sunday to Thursday from 8am to 5pm. This can vary from company to company though, especially when it comes to multinational corporations.

Business language

Arabic is Bahrain's official language, but English is commonly spoken and is often used in business.

Dress

Business attire is formal and conservative.

Gifts

Small gifts are acceptable. Gifts aren't opened in the presence of the giver and are typically saved for later.

Gender equality

Men and women are treated equally in business.

Greetings

A handshake is the most common greeting. When a man greets a woman, he should wait for her to extend her hand first.

Business culture in Bahrain

Personal relationships

Business moves slowly in Bahrain, and any attempt to rush it is considered improper. Similar to most Arab countries, business culture in Bahrain is based on personal relationships. A letter of introduction from a mutual acquaintance is a great way to facilitate meetings, as Bahrainis generally prefer doing business with people they know. It follows that initial meetings focus on building a relationship rather than hammering out details.

Business attire

Business attire in Bahrain is strictly formal. No matter how hot the weather, a suit and tie are mandatory. Women should dress modestly, keeping arms and legs covered at all times and wear closed-toed shoes. Local businessmen may wear Western attire or a thobe, a flowing robe seen at nearly every type of occasion.

Communication

It's important to use formal titles when addressing local businesspeople.

Business language tends to be indirect, and care is taken to save face and avoid disappointing others with flat refusals. It is considered impolite to fast-track discussions or openly contradict another person.

Bahrain has continued to be affected by a politically turbulent period that began with an uprising in 2011, and 10 years later periodic violent protests and demonstrations still continue. The unrest has largely occurred outside of the capital, but protest activity in Manama is occasionally reported. These are dangers that expats should be able to navigate fairly easily as long as they avoid such gatherings.

In terms of crime, Bahrain is relatively safe, but expats should be careful on the road as local drivers can be erratic and unpredictable.

Protests in Bahrain

Expats are advised to avoid crowded places when protests and demonstrations are taking place. From time to time, when political violence flares up the Bahraini government may enforce a curfew and it is recommended that expats respect these regulations for their own safety.

Crime in Bahrain

The crime rate in Bahrain is low and unlikely to impact expats. Crimes are generally petty in nature and include opportunistic theft, burglary and pickpocketing. Precautions, such as avoiding travel at night in lower-income areas and securing valuables, will lower the risk of being targeted. Expats should use their common sense and be vigilant. 

Terrorism in Bahrain

Bahrain has not been affected by terrorism to the same degree as some of its neighbours in recent years. Nonetheless, the country is occasionally affected by low-level and relatively unsophisticated incendiary attacks. These typically occur during demonstrations or periods of civil unrest and are used against the police services. That said, the Bahraini government has put counterterrorism measures in place should such an event occur.

Road safety in Bahrain

The standard of driving in Bahrain is poor and the country experiences a high number of road traffic accidents. Aggressive driving, speeding and general disregard for traffic laws are the primary causes.

Expats are advised not to drive, but rather hire a local driver who is more familiar with Bahraini road behaviour. Expats who do opt to drive should do so defensively and with caution, particularly on major highways and at high-risk times. 

Expats moving to Bahrain will experience a busy and engaging city life and a blend of modernity with traditional Islamic culture on this archipelago. 

There is a sizeable expat community in Bahrain, but those relocating to this Gulf state will still have to contend with elements of culture shock and make some adjustments to their lifestyle. Often referred to as 'Middle East lite', Bahrain is considerably more liberal than its neighbours, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, but is still rooted in an Islamic belief system. 

Living in Bahrain as an expat

Most expats moving to Bahrain do so for the lucrative employment opportunities. The earning potential for expats is high in Bahrain and many report enjoying a higher standard of living than they had in their home country. 

As a financial centre of the Middle East, highly skilled foreigners will find plenty of positions available in the banking and construction sectors. And, as Bahrain had made efforts to diversify its economy beyond the petroleum industry, there are many jobs to be had in several multinational firms as well.

Moving to Bahrain also means bigger houses for many. A huge variety of accommodation designed to suit all budgets and tastes awaits new tenants. Expats can choose between towering high-rises, standalone villas or even homes enclaved in a secure compound.

Cost of living in Bahrain

Although the cost of living in Bahrain is increasing annually, it is still reasonable in comparison to its neighbours. Accommodation will certainly be an expat's biggest expense, and they will also have to shoulder the cost of a car due to the island's limited public transport network. That said, some companies may include these benefits in an expat's employment package. 

Groceries in Bahrain are reasonable, but western products are incredibly pricey due to import costs. Eating out is also costly, and those wanting to save money should buy local produce and cook at home.

Expat families and children

While expats with children are unlikely to enrol their little ones in any of Bahrain's public schools, plenty of excellent private and international school options exist. Spots disappear quickly, though, so it's important to make registration a priority upon relocation.

Although Bahrain is not necessarily the most child-friendly, the island certainly has much on offer to entertain the little ones. Water parks, wildlife sanctuaries, museums, malls and an abundance of beaches for a day spent out in the sunshine are just some of the many things families in Bahrain can enjoy in their spare time. 

Climate in Bahrain

Bahrain has an arid climate. The weather is marked by extreme heat and an uncomfortable humidity is present throughout the year. This may be quite a shock for expats when they first move to Bahrain and adjusting to this could be difficult. Irregular, short and heavy bursts of rainfall occur throughout winter, and summer and spring bring occasional sandstorms. 

As far as Middle Eastern destinations are concerned, Bahrain is increasingly becoming an expat favourite. It's a fantastic alternative location for those based in neighbouring countries looking to situate their families in a more liberal environment.

Fast facts

Population: About 1.7 million

Capital city: Manama (also largest city)

Neighbouring countries: Bahrain is a small set of islands in the Persian Gulf. The King Fahd Causeway is a series of bridges to the west of Bahrain, connecting it to its closest neighbour, Saudi Arabia. Across the Gulf, a short distance to the southeast, is Qatar, while Iran is further away on the northeastern side of the Gulf.

Geography: Bahrain is an archipelago, with a primarily flat and arid desert landscape. The smallest country in Asia, the total length of the coastline of the Kingdom's main island is approximately 100 miles (161km).

Political system: Constitutional monarchy

Major religions: Islam, with a small Christian minority

Main languages: Arabic is Bahrain's official language, but English is widely spoken

Money: The Bahraini Dinar (BHD), divided into 1,000 fils. Expats will be able to open a local bank account, but the process is stringent and requires extensive documentation and paperwork. ATMs are widely available in most parts of Bahrain.

Tipping: Restaurants in Bahrain generally include service charges in the bill. Additional tipping is not expected but will nonetheless be appreciated. Ten percent is usually appropriate.

Time: GMT +3

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. UK-style plugs with three flat blades are used.

International dialling code: +973

Emergency contacts: 999 for police, ambulance and fire services

Internet domain: .bh

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road in Bahrain. Public transport is limited to buses and taxis as there are currently no rail services available.

Visas for Bahrain fall into several different categories. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose of the visit, number of expected visits and the length of an expat's stay in the Kingdom.

Depending on their nationality, many expats will be able to obtain a visa on arrival in Bahrain and will receive a stamp in their passport when entering. Otherwise, expats may be eligible for an eVisa, which is applied for in advance and stored online. In the case that an expat's particular country isn't part of such an agreement, they will need to apply for a tourist visa in person at their local Bahraini embassy.

In most cases, foreigners entering Bahrain will be required to have a Bahraini sponsor to support their visa application. Sponsors can be an individual, a company or an institution. In most cases, it will be the expat's employer.

Tourist visas for Bahrain

Foreigners visiting Bahrain for holiday or those on a short fact-finding trip prior to accepting an expat contract will need to apply for a tourist visa. Some travellers will be entitled to a visa upon arrival at the airport in Bahrain, providing that they are in possession of a valid passport and an onward or return ticket.

Visitors ineligible for a visa on arrival must pre-arrange their visa, either through the eVisa system or by application through a Bahraini embassy. These applications must be supported by a sponsor. Those without a contact in Bahrain may be able to use a travel agency or hotel as their sponsor.

Once the visa has been granted, the foreigner is entitled to visit Bahrain for the duration of the period stated on their visa. A tourist visa does not permit the holder to carry out any form of economic activity during their stay, including working and business-related activities.

Business visas for Bahrain

Business visas are issued to those visiting Bahrain for business and representing a company. Those in possession of a business visa are only permitted to carry out official company business while in the Kingdom. They are not entitled to look for alternative employment or take up any form of employment with another company in Bahrain. Business visas are valid for up to four weeks. 

Work visas for Bahrain

Most expats moving to Bahrain have been lured to the Kingdom by a lucrative job offer. Anyone who plans on working for either a local or international business in Bahrain will need a work visa to allow them to do so legally. In most cases, expats will find that their employer will take care of arranging the work visa for them.  That said, it's worth being aware of the requirements as expats will need to provide their employer with several important documents.

Once a job offer is solidified, the hiring company will usually completely bear the burden of organising visas and paperwork. In such cases, expats will merely need to help supply the requested documents.

Work permits are valid for a maximum of two years, at which point they need to be renewed. Once an expat arrives in Bahrain with a work permit, they will also need to apply for a residency permit.

Residency permits for Bahrain

Those taking up employment in Bahrain will need to apply for a residency permit in addition to their work visa. The residency permit, once granted, will run concurrently with the work visa.

It's important to note that a residency permit alone won't allow the holder to take up employment in Bahrain.

Bahrain is regarded as an attractive place for expats to work, and it's also an extremely easy country to settle in. Expats working in Bahrain will be rewarded with high salaries and no personal taxes; an easy incentive for putting in the hours the daily grind demands. 

To legally work in Bahrain, expats need a sponsoring employer who can apply for a work visa on their behalf. Companies in Bahrain can only sponsor a limited number of visas according to their quota for foreign employees, which is relative to the size of the company. 

The majority of expats living in Bahrain find that public schools in the country aren't suitable for foreign children because of the language barrier and different cultural norms. For these reasons, expats tend to opt for international schools instead.

While there's plenty of choice in terms of international schools in Bahrain, securing a place at the desired school can be tough. It's therefore advisable that parents begin investigating schooling options for their child as soon as possible – ideally before the move. In some cases, expat parents end up having to homeschool their children while waiting for a space to become available at their chosen school. 

Below is a list of recommended international schools in Bahrain.

International schools in Bahrain

Al Noor International School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Bahraini, British and Indian
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.alnischool.com

British School of Bahrain

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels and BTEC
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.britishschoolbahrain.com

Naseem International School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American and International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.nisbah.com

St Christopher’s School Bahrain

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels and International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.st-chris.net

Expats looking for accommodation in Bahrain will almost certainly find bigger and better property options available to them than back home. Regardless of whether expats prefer a modern apartment in a lofty high-rise, an expansive villa outside of the city centre, or a cookie-cutter home in a safe and secure expat compound, there are options to satisfy all tastes and budgets.

The first factor to consider is the location of a property. Expats will need to decide whether they want to be in the city centre of Manama or farther out in the suburbs. Though the difference is a mere 10- to 30-minute commute, the type of accommodation available differs according to area.

Expats with families who want larger properties are more likely to find these outside the city centre. They will also need to consider proximity to good international schools.

Types of accommodation in Bahrain

Expat compounds are a popular option for foreigners. The insular community, added security, access to amenities and the spirit of camaraderie are all major drawcards for those who choose to live in these compounds.

Furnished, unfurnished and semi-furnished homes are all available in Bahrain. Semi-furnished accommodation generally includes the provision of kitchen appliances, air conditioners and curtains, while unfurnished often means completely bare. Fully furnished accommodation in Bahrain comes comprehensively equipped and, in many cases, stylishly decorated.

There's no shortage of good furniture stores in Bahrain, and artisans and craftsmen can also be commissioned to make some truly unique fittings and innovative household goods. As a result, many expats choose the semi-furnished or unfurnished route.

Finding accommodation in Bahrain

Many expats relocating to Bahrain have accommodation arranged through their employer. Those who are left to find a home in Bahrain on their own usually enlist the services of a real estate agent. These individuals are incredibly helpful and often go so far as to negotiate the lease once a property has been selected.

Expats often opt to take short-term housing immediately upon arrival while they use an agent to find a more permanent living option. Searching for accommodation online and in local newspapers may also yield results.

Renting accommodation in Bahrain

The process of renting a property in Bahrain is straightforward. In most cases, expats will either receive the support of their employer or an estate agent.

Furnishings

Most properties in Bahrain are furnished or semi-furnished. Villas tend to be semi-furnished. This typically includes large appliances like a fridge, washer and dryer, oven and sometimes curtains. Apartments are generally fully furnished, but it is possible to find unfurnished apartments. It's also possible to negotiate with the property owner to remove the furniture when renting long term.

Deposits

Tenants will usually need to pay a security deposit upfront. This deposit typically equates to one month's rent. The amount is fully refundable depending on the state of the property at the end of the contract.

Leases

Rental contracts are available for various lengths of time, although most leases are signed for one year with the option to renew. Expats need to ensure that they are committed to living in the property for the complete period specified on the rental agreement as getting out of a contract prior to it expiring can be difficult.

If expats think there is a possibility that they may need to leave the island before the end of their lease, they should request a diplomatic clause to be included in the lease. This will mean that if they are required to leave the island, with the relevant paperwork, they can give one month's notice at any time during the lease. 

Utilities

The rent for a fully furnished accommodation often already includes municipality tax, electricity and water. In some cases, rent can also include luxuries like internet, satellite television and housekeeping. On the other hand, semi-furnished accommodation usually excludes utility bills. Expats will need to make sure of what their rent includes before signing their lease.

Education in Bahrain is of a high standard. As a result of the ever-growing expat population, there are plenty of international schools in Bahrain to choose from.
 
Bahrain championed the Arabian Peninsula's first public education system in 1930. Today, the Kingdom boasts a high standard of education, with a literacy rate of more than 97 percent.

Public schools in Bahrain

Education in Bahrain is compulsory for all children aged six to 14, and tuition at state schools is free. Textbooks, uniforms, lunches and school transport are also provided free of charge.

Despite these perks, expat children living in Bahrain rarely attend Bahraini public schools. This is for a number of reasons, such as the local language barrier, the typically transient nature of expats' stays in Bahrain, and the difficulty in overcoming local cultural norms.
 
While English is taught in Bahraini schools, the main language of instruction is a local dialect of Arabic. This puts non-native speakers at a significant disadvantage.

Bahrain's private education sector is largely composed of international schools alongside a handful of religious private schools. Bahrain's international schools have been established to meet the needs of a growing expat population in Bahrain. There are dozens of schools for expats to choose from, but demand still outweighs supply. As a result, classes fill up quickly, so the application process should be started as soon as possible – even from abroad, prior to relocation.

Expats of a number of nationalities will be able to find an international school following the curriculum of their home country. This provides continuity in the child's education and limits the disruption caused by the move. There are several British and American schools to choose from as well as schools offering other curricula, such as those of India, France and Australia. Some schools offer the world-renowned International Baccalaureate programme instead.

Generally speaking, standards at international schools in Bahrain are high, smaller class sizes are the norm and most have modern facilities and healthy extra-curricular programmes.

As is the case globally, tuition fees at international schools in Bahrain can be extremely high. It is therefore wise for expats to factor this expense into their employment contract when negotiating with their employer. If an employer is reluctant to include an education allowance in the package, expats will need to ensure their salary is high enough to adequately cover the costs of schooling.

Homeschooling in Bahrain

It is possible for parents to homeschool their children while living in Bahrain as there is no law against it. Many parents choose to enrol their children in a private school to ensure they're following a structured curriculum while learning at home. Alternatively, there are a number of academies, such as Teach Bahrain, that offer private teachers for full-time study at home. These academies follow various curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate and the British curriculum. 

Special-needs education in Bahrain

The Kingdom of Bahrain is one of the first Middle Eastern countries to embrace inclusive education. The ministry of education's mission is to enable all learners with special needs to enrol in education in public and private schools. They follow a continuous and comprehensive approach to ensure that students' requirements and individual needs are met.

Parents who prefer to send their children to special-needs schools will be happy to hear that Bahrain has a number of excellent options for their children. One such option is The Children's Academy which is a private special-needs school that teaches children between the ages of three and nine. The language of education is English and a large number of the students are expats. The school caters for a number of needs including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome and ADHD.

Tutors in Bahrain

Tutors are widely available for children in Bahrain and are extremely useful in providing schools support for all subjects, assisting children with learning Arabic, adjusting to their new school environment and curriculum, as well as test and exam preparation. Tutors can be found through adverts posted to online platforms like Mums in Bahrain, or through a tutoring company, such as ApprentUs and TeacherOn. 

There are also tutoring institutions in Bahrain that offer courses for children to improve their learning. Al-Ba7ith Institute is one such tutoring centre. They have premises in both Sehla and Juffair, and offer personalised courses for each child that are specific to their needs.   

The cost of living in Bahrain is consistently on the rise due to inflation and the presence of a growing Western expat population prepared to pay premiums for goods and services.

That said, compared to other regional commercial centres such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Bahrain is still a reasonable destination when it comes to balancing the budget and keeping a little something extra in the bank.

The 2023 Mercer Cost of Living Survey ranked Manama, the country's capital and largest city, 98th out of 227 cities. As in all locations, however, the cost of living can vary tremendously depending on the lifestyle expats choose to lead.

In the past, accommodation and car allowances were common add-ons to expat employment packages in Bahrain. Although they are occasionally still included, this is no longer a given. So, it's vital to make sure one's base payment adequately covers these expenses and then some.

Cost of accommodation in Bahrain

Accommodation will be the most significant expat expense. Costs are generally high, but there are plenty of different housing options that will satisfy nearly every budget. Property inside expat compounds is by far the priciest, so opting for an apartment in town will certainly cost less.

Cost of transport in Bahrain

Despite the island's compact size, public transport options are currently somewhat limited, resulting in most expats needing to budget for a private vehicle. Again, prices vary tremendously based on several factors. Buying a pre-owned, older make and model will be the cheapest option here.

Cost of groceries in Bahrain

The cost of groceries in Bahrain can be pretty surprising for new expats, as it varies widely depending on where one shops and what one buys. Imported goods, especially those from Europe and North America, tend to be much pricier than local or regional products. For example, a loaf of bread from a well-known international brand may cost double or even triple the price of a locally produced one. Similarly, fresh produce like fruits and vegetables can be more affordable when bought from local markets rather than upscale supermarkets.

It's worth noting that although some items may seem expensive, others, like meat and dairy products, are relatively cheaper compared to countries such as Australia or New Zealand.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Bahrain

Entertainment and dining out are two areas where costs can add up quickly in Bahrain. The island has a vibrant social scene, with a wide range of options from luxury fine dining to more casual eateries. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can be comparable in price to dining out in major cities in Western Europe or the US. Fast food and more casual dining options are relatively affordable.

When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of activities to choose from, including water sports, cinemas and various cultural attractions. While some activities, such as visiting historical sites, are relatively inexpensive, others, like water sports or a night out at a high-end lounge, can be quite costly.

Cost of education in Bahrain

Expat families moving to Bahrain usually send their children to one of the island's private or international schools. This can be a sizeable unforeseen expense, especially for expats coming from countries where school expenses are covered or subsidised by the government. Tuition fees can also vary depending on the age of the children and the school selected.

Expats sending their children to an international school will need to budget annually for school fees. Additional expenses may include extracurricular activities, school uniforms, textbooks and other basic school supplies.

Cost of healthcare in Bahrain

Healthcare in Bahrain is of a high standard, and expats have access to both public and private healthcare facilities. The quality of care and the range of services provided in private hospitals and clinics are often superior to those in public facilities. As a result, many expats prefer to use private healthcare, which can be costly, especially for specialised treatments or surgeries.

Expats are required to have health insurance, and it's advisable to have a comprehensive policy that covers a wide range of medical services. Some employers provide health insurance as part of the employment package, but it's essential to check what is covered and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.

Cost of living in Bahrain chart

Prices may vary depending on location and service provider. The table below is based on average prices for Manama in August 2023.

Expats living in Bahrain will have access to a solid healthcare infrastructure with options for treatment in the public and private sectors. The island supports an assortment of state-sponsored hospitals, private institutions and clinics, and speciality hospitals.

That being said, the healthcare system in Bahrain still faces challenges. The economic boom has inspired a large population influx and the state must now take steps to address the high numbers of expats that have come to set up home in the archipelago.

Furthermore, although many health workers are in fact foreigners or have been trained overseas and do speak English, there still may be a language barrier to overcome if expats find themselves in an emergency.

Public healthcare in Bahrain

With a long history of sea-trade, expats shipping to Bahrain have plenty of service providers to choose from. Bahrain's main port is Khalifa Bin Salman Port. In addition to shipping by sea, expats also have the option to ship their possessions via air freight; this method is generally more expensive but considerably quicker. Shipping companies will often provide quotes for free, so expats should take the time to consult a number of different organisations and find out which can offer the best price and the best service.

Expats will also want to think carefully when deciding on the household goods they'd like to bring across. Shipping can quickly become expensive, and Bahrain has an assortment of furniture shops. Expats should also consider the fact that it's perfectly possible to find stylishly furnished accommodation in the country.

Generally speaking, no customs duty is imposed on those bringing personal goods into Bahrain as long as they have been in use for three months or more and are brought into the Kingdom within six months of the expat's move. This does not apply to vehicles, and expats will therefore have to pay customs duties if they want to bring their car into Bahrain. 

Shipping pets to Bahrain

Expats who wish to bring their furry friends across the border to Bahrain will need to apply for an import permit. Pets must be microchipped, vaccinated and must have a recent health certificate from a licensed vet.

Depending on the incidence of rabies in the pet's country of origin, they may also need to be tested and certified as free of rabies. 

Expats moving to Bahrain are bound to have many queries and concerns about their soon-to-be home. Below we provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about moving to Bahrain.

Is there an expat community in Bahrain?

Absolutely. Bahrain is one of the most popular expat destinations in the Middle East, with a significant portion of the population being expats. These expats are attracted by job opportunities, lucrative employment packages and little to no personal tax. New arrivals in Bahrain should settle quite easily into the expat community. 

Do I need a car in Bahrain?

Expats will almost certainly need a car in Bahrain. Public transportation is limited to buses and isn't very reliable, and private taxis can make getting from point A to point B expensive. Even if you live in the city centre, summer temperatures skyrocket and intense humidity can make for damp clothes and discomfort.

Expats can either lease or buy a car in Bahrain. Petrol is inexpensive and the vehicles are generally reasonably priced. In many cases, expats are able to afford cars that they would never dream of driving in their home country. That said, driving behaviour in Bahrain is erratic and expats should always buckle up and drive defensively. 

Do woman in Bahrain need to cover up?

Though Bahrain is a Muslim nation, modernity and liberalism have been much more integrated into society than in neighbouring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Expat women dress in Western clothes in public spaces and, generally speaking, what is appropriate in Western countries is most likely appropriate in Bahrain. That said, it's generally best not to wear anything too skintight or revealing in order to avoid attracting attention.

Will I have to partake in Ramadan?

Expats experiencing Ramadan for the first time can suffer from some culture shock. They don't have to partake, but eating or drinking in public is not allowed during Ramadan. It's also considered disrespectful to eat or drink in front of Muslim colleagues or friends who are fasting. Many workplaces, particularly multinational companies that employ lots of expats, will have a dedicated room for non-Muslim expats to eat and drink during Ramadan.

Expats should also be aware that businesses, restaurants and grocery stores may adjust their opening hours to better fit the daily meal times during Ramadan, staying shut during daylight hours.

*Islamic holidays are subject to the sighting of the moon, and dates can change on the Gregorian calendar.

Expats should be aware that it will likely take some time to get used to transport and driving in Bahrain. That said, the island's diminutive size means that this adjustment is somewhat less dramatic than in larger countries.

As public transport options are limited to bus services, most expats find that driving is the easiest and most convenient way to get around in Bahrain. Plans have been put in place to construct a metro system for the island, which will be built in phases and is set to be complete by 2023. 

Driving in Bahrain

Most expats living in Bahrain have a car. In the heat of the summer, air-conditioned transport is essential even to drive to the local shop.

Driving in Bahrain is on the right-hand side of the road and traffic is commonly regulated by roundabouts. Road signs are usually in both Arabic and English, and roads are generally well maintained.

That said, driving standards in Bahrain are poor and local driving behaviour can be erratic. Speeding, lane switching without signalling and the use of mobile phones while driving are common so expats should drive defensively and always wear a seatbelt.

Cycling in Bahrain

Although there is a lack of cycling infrastructure in Bahrain, the island is home to a handful of cycling groups. Bahrain's small size should make commuting by bicycle easy, but it can get unbearably hot and the roads are filled with unpredictable and dangerous driving, making this a far from ideal form of commute.

Despite its small size and extensive exposure to a multitude of nationalities and ethnicities, Bahrain's culture has essentially maintained its Arab roots. Islamic morals govern personal, business, legal and economic life, but the country is regarded as quite liberal compared to its neighbours.

Bahrainis often speak English and are friendly towards newcomers. Nevertheless, expats unused to the Arab way of life may experience some level of culture shock in Bahrain.

Dress code in Bahrain

On arrival, expats may be surprised to see just how smartly dressed locals usually are. Traditional clothing for men includes a long white garment known as a thobe as well as a linen headwrap called a gutra. Local women wear headscarves and abayas – loose-flowing garments, usually black, sometimes with detailed decoration at the neck or sleeve edges.

Expat women need not dress in the traditional manner, but shoulders and knees should generally be covered as revealing tops or shorts can attract harassment. Hair should be covered too to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Both men and women should dress conservatively for business meetings.

Ramadan in Bahrain

Ramadan can be a period of severe culture shock for expats who have never experienced the holy event in an Islamic country.

Though expats aren't required to fast during this period, they should not consume any food or drink (including water) in public between sunrise and sunset. Working hours and restaurant opening times are adjusted accordingly. Alternatively, some companies provide a room where non-Muslim staff can eat during the month of Ramadan.

Customs and etiquette in Bahrain

If invited to a Bahraini home, expats should take a non-alcoholic gift, such as chocolates or flowers.

In Bahraini culture, men greet other men with handshakes and kisses on the cheeks if they know each other. Women shouldn’t expect a man to shake hands with them, but a female friend may welcome her with a hug and a kiss. Men should not touch a Bahraini woman unless the woman offers her hand first.

Bahrainis love to socialise, but be aware that social events may be same-sex only. Make an effort to reciprocate the hospitality if possible. Small talk will always precede a business meeting or a meal.

When visiting someone’s home, check if they’ve removed their shoes and follow suit. Leaving footwear at the door avoids tramping dust through the house.

Alcohol in Bahrain

While alcohol is forbidden for Muslims in Bahrain, it's available to non-Muslims at specific outlets. For instance, certain hotels, restaurants and expat social clubs are permitted to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises.

Expats planning on living in Bahrain may find one of the most difficult adjustments they'll have to make is acclimating to the high temperatures. The weather in Bahrain is marked by extreme heat and an uncomfortable humidity is present throughout the year.

Summer is from April to October, with temperatures averaging 104°F (40°C). Winter is from November to March. Though milder in comparison, winter temperatures can still be fairly warm and hover between 50 and 68°F (10 and 20°C).

The archipelago is incredibly arid with only irregular short, heavy bursts of rainfall throughout winter. The spring and summer months, on the other hand, are marked by the shamal – strong winds that bring damp, humid air into the country and cause sandstorms – although these do not occur regularly. 

Expats should be forewarned that the weather in Bahrain can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially for those not used to such high temperatures. It's best to stay indoors during the day's hottest hours and sunscreen is advised. Expats should also be sure to stay hydrated.