Bahrain

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

There have been several terrorist attacks in the Gulf region in recent years. Take official warnings seriously. 

Attacks could occur at any time and could target: 

• government and military sites, and security personnel
• police patrols
• critical infrastructure including oil refineries and storage sites
• public areas and parks
• places of worship
• places popular with foreigners, such as tourist sites, hotels, shops, restaurants, bars and cafes
• crowded areas, sporting and cultural events and other high-profile events
• foreign embassies and other symbols of western culture

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism
• Armed conflict

The situation in the Middle East region remains unpredictable. 

There remains a risk of military action. If this happens, prioritise your safety. Monitor developments closely and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations and protests can take place at any time and place. Even peaceful demonstrations and protests can turn violent without warning.

Security forces sometimes use force to disperse protesters. Demonstrations can result in blockages to roads, highways, and other routes, including to or from the airport, and the causeway with Saudi Arabia. Security checkpoints may be deployed in or around the areas of demonstrations and protests.

Public rallies and meetings of large groups without the permission of the authorities are illegal. You could face legal action if you join them. If you're caught up in unrest, authorities could arrest you.

Monitor the media for political and regional tensions, and any announcements or warnings by the local authorities.

Avoid:

• public gatherings and protests
• wearing clothing of a political nature that may be seen as a form of protest
• places where Bahraini Ministry of Interior forces gather
• potential unrest on days of national or commemorative importance
• travel outside the inner-city area at night

Take extra care around the time of Friday prayers, periods of mourning and religious anniversaries and festivals.

If you're in an affected area:

• be prepared to change your travel plans
• leave the area as soon as it's safe, or stay indoors and away from windows
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

If unrest disrupts transport, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for advice.

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

The overall level of crime in Bahrain is low, however pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs. Criminals target the old market areas (souks).

To protect yourself against petty theft:

• be aware of your surroundings
• keep a close eye on your belongings
• leave valuables in a safe place and carry only what you need
• keep your passport and other travel documents safe
• keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• monitor local sources for information about possible safety or security risks

Where possible, avoid travelling alone or at night in isolated places.

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Cyber security

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Bahrain often has extremely high temperatures. The hottest months of the year are June to September. The temperature can exceed 50°C.

To avoid heat stroke and dehydration:

• drink plenty of water
• avoid long periods in the heat

Sand and dust storms are common.

If a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor local media for updates
• check the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

At the beach, be aware of strong currents and obey warning signs. There may be no safety information displayed at some beaches.

To protect yourself at the beach:

• get local advice before swimming
• be alert to changes in sea conditions, including rips
• swim within your ability and in areas designated for swimming.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another certified provider.

Some skincare products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in Bahrain such as Cannabidiol (CBD) oil. CBD oil or products are illegal in Bahrain even if they are for medical or recreational purposes. It is considered a serious crime to carry illegal drugs or CBD oil or products in Bahrain, even if you are transiting through the airport Bahrain from another country. Punishment can result in imprisonment and deportation. 

For more information, including if you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Bahrain by contacting the nearest Bahraini Embassy or Consulate or Bahraini Customs prior to your departure to Bahrain. 

Take enough legal medicine for your trip. Carry your medicine in its original packaging and a copy of your prescription or a dated letter from your doctor that states:

• your name
• the medicine's brand and scientific (chemical) name
• the prescribed dosage and the duration of treatment, and
• that it's for your personal use

If required, have your medical documents legalised before you leave. Visit Notarial services (legalising documents) in Australia for further information.

Bahraini authorities may detain or deport travellers for:

• carrying medication to treat HIV/AIDS or hepatitis
• testing positive for HIV/AIDS or hepatitis.

Health facilities and pharmacies are required to report HIV-positive foreigners to the Ministry of Health, which could lead to detention and deportation. 

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

You may be at risk of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Cases have been reported in several Middle Eastern countries. Other countries have had cases from returned travellers.

Avoid contact with camels. Don't consume raw camel milk, undercooked camel meat, or anything contaminated with camel secretions.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or diarrhoea.

Other health risks

You're at risk of waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases.

To protect yourself from illness:

• stay well hydrated and drink boiled or bottled water with a sealed lid
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

There’s no agreement between Australia and Bahrain for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

The Bahraini Government may ask you to repay all costs of emergency treatment.

If you did not pay or can't afford to pay your medical bill and you didn't get travel insurance:

• you could be arrested or jailed
• you could be sued by the hospital
• you may not be able to leave the country until you pay

The nearest Australian Embassy is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It doesn't have direct access to police, jails, hospitals and other services. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Bahrain may be limited. 

The Australian Embassy has to formally ask for access through the Bahraini Embassy in Riyadh. Authorities approve this on a case-by-case basis, so there may be a delay. 

Behaviour in Australia that you might consider offensive or anti-social, but not criminal, could be illegal in Bahrain. Anyone breaking Bahraini law, even without knowing, may be subject to severe punishment. Using offensive language, body or hand gestures can lead to criminal charges and/or heavy fines.

Bahraini law applies to you even if you're transiting and don't leave the airport.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences, including buying, selling, and possession, even when transiting through Bahrain, are severe and may include a life sentence or the death penalty.

Some cosmetic products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in Bahrain, such as Cannabidiol (CBD) oil. For more information, check with your medical provider and the nearest Bahraini Embassy or consulate prior to your departure to Bahrain.

You can be charged with possession if trace amounts of drugs are found on your body, clothing, or luggage. 

Police may detain you if you're accompanied by someone who is involved in drug cases, including trafficking, possessing, or using drugs. You may remain in detention until investigations of all parties are concluded.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Commercial and family law

Bahrain's laws differ from Australia's in several areas, including:

• commercial and employment matters
• family law and divorce
• child custody
• child support

If you have family, employment or commercial interests in Bahrain, get professional legal advice from a lawyer in Bahrain on your legal rights and responsibilities.

Authorities might stop you from leaving Bahrain if you have a commercial or labour dispute, legal proceedings, or unpaid debts. Check with your local lawyer for full details and advice. (see 'Travel').

It is illegal to give birth out of wedlock. Bahrain does not recognise children born outside marriage and does not issue birth certificates for children born outside marriage. 

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Media activity

You must obtain permission in advance from the Bahraini authorities to undertake media activity relating to the production, transmission or distribution of printed, digital, audio, video or visual information. If you fail to do this, you could be arrested, fined, and deported from Bahrain. Local authorities may also ban you from re-entering the country in the future.

Contact your nearest Bahraini Embassy/Consulate and the Bahraini Ministry of Information for more information on obtaining the necessary permits to carry out media activity in Bahrain and bringing media equipment into Bahrain.

Domestic and child violence services 

If you're in danger, or you/your children have been a victim of domestic violence in Bahrain, call:

• local Bahraini police on 999
• the Protection Centre & Helpline on 998
• Ministry of Social Development - (Family Counselling Center) on 80008001

Children and minors who may be victims of cybercrimes, cyberbullying, grooming, potential sexual or physical assault, and other forms of harm can contact the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic & Electronic Security on 992 from a local Bahraini mobile or landline number.

When reporting domestic violence:

• get a case reference number
• document any injuries and get a copy of any medical reports.

If you file a police report or use any Bahraini victim services, authorities may inform your sponsor or guardian.

Custody disputes

Sharia (Islamic) courts have jurisdiction over custody cases involving Muslim parents. The Embassy of Australia cannot intervene in court proceedings, private and/or legal matters including family and custody disputes. Seek advice from a competent local lawyer.

Custody orders and judgments issued by foreign courts may not be enforceable in Bahrain.

Bahraini Civil courts also adjudicate cases related to divorce and child custody for non-Muslims. When a custody case arises between parents and one of the parents is Muslim, custody decisions may be based on Islamic law.

When custody disputes arise and a custody case is before the local court, the local court may impose a travel ban on the child/children and the parent/s. You will not be allowed to leave Bahrain until the issue is resolved. 

More information:

• Travelling with children
• Advice for women travellers
• Reducing the risk of assault

You may face severe penalties, including the death penalty for serious crimes, including murder. Other offences, including theft, can result in imprisonment, deportation, fines, and future bans on re-entering the country.

Always carry a valid photo ID with you, failing to do so may result in fines from authorities.

You must obtain a valid work permit from the relevant Bahraini authority for any type of employment. It is illegal to work in Bahrain on a tourist or non-work visa. Engaging in any form of work (paid or unpaid) without the necessary work permit can lead to detention, fines, and deportation.

You may be arrested or jailed for criticising or mocking government policies or officials in Bahrain. This includes comments made on social media before your arrival in the country. Authorities have previously arrested people for social media posts related to Islam. It is illegal to mock any of Bahrain's recognised religious texts, which includes texts from non-Muslim religions.

Non-Muslim residents in Bahrain may marry in civil or religious ceremonies, but all marriages must be registered with a Bahraini civil court. Civil courts also handle divorce and child custody matters for non-Muslims. It is advisable to seek local legal advice for more details.

It is illegal to:

• attempt to convert a Muslim to another religion
• make offensive remarks about or insult Bahrain, the royal family, Islam, other religious beliefs, or local authorities
• use offensive language, swear, abuse others, or make rude gestures in public or on social media
• drink excessively while in transit through the airport
• participate in protests or demonstrations
• possess pornography
• engage in premarital sex or give birth outside of marriage
• possess or sell homemade wine or alcohol
• disobey police instructions
• support any group deemed by Bahraini authorities to engage in violence
• import, possess, or trade weapons
• earn income from social media or other platforms without a licence from local authorities
• participate in charity or fundraising activities without prior approval from local authorities.

These actions can be considered illegal even if they occurred outside of Bahrain or years before your visit.

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals. Be especially cautious when taking pictures of locals, particularly women and children. In some cases, it is illegal to photograph government buildings, military sites, official motorcades, and sensitive infrastructure, including oil fields.

Women reporting sexual assault may be taken into custody and may need to prove that the encounter was non-consensual to avoid being charged under extramarital sex laws. For more details, please check the local laws and seek legal advice from a local lawyer.

If you are associated with groups considered anti-Bahrain government, you may be refused entry or face arrest and detention.

The use of drones in Bahrain is regulated by local laws. The Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA) states that drone operations are permitted under specific regulations. Contact the CAA and the Ministry of Interior Customs Affairs for information and requirements for obtaining approval to bring or use a drone in Bahrain.

More information:

• Drones - unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Bahrain doesn't recognise dual nationality. Authorities may seize extra passports if they find them, and charges may be laid, including imprisonment if you hold a second nationality without permission from the relevant Bahraini authorities.

If you're a dual national and you enter Bahrain on your non-Australian passport, this may limit the consular services we can provide you.

If you're a dual national of another country (for example, an Australian-UK citizen) you can only exit Bahrain with the passport that you used to enter.

More information:

• Dual nationals

The Bahraini weekend is Friday and Saturday.

Respect religious and cultural sensitivities, rules and customs. Be aware of sensitivity around Ramadan and other religious festivals.

Ramadan

Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during the Islamic holiday month of Ramadan.

Avoid dressing inappropriately, eating, drinking or smoking in public or around people who are fasting.

Dress and behaviour standards

Standards of dress and behaviour are generally more conservative than in Australia. Dress modestly. Make sure you cover your shoulders and knees.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. 

If you disrespect Islam, you'll cause great offence, and locals may report you to the local police.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Travelling as a couple

Hotels may refuse couples who can't prove they're married.

Avoid public displays of affection which may cause offence and dress appropriately. 

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships between consenting adults aged over 21 years are not criminalised. However, LGBTQIA+ activity isn't socially accepted. It's likely to attract the attention of Bahraini authorities under broader morality and public order laws.

Some LGBTQIA+ travellers have reported difficulties entering Bahrain on a passport bearing a name and photo that do not correspond to their gender identity. For more information, please contact your nearest Bahraini Embassy or Consulate prior to your departure to Bahrain.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas

Entry and exit rules can change at short notice. Contact your nearest Bahraini Embassy or Consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules. 

Bahrain has resumed visas on arrival for Australian passport holders. Visas to enter Bahrain can also be obtained online through their eVisa portal. Contact the nearest Bahraini Embassy or Consulate for the latest details. 

If you need information on Bahraini visas while in the country, you can contact the Ministry of Interior's office of Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA).   

If you've had a travel ban placed against you in the past to prevent you from re-entering Bahrain, you should check the duration of the ban prior to your arrival, or you may be denied entry.

You may be arrested when you arrive if you have a previous unresolved legal case in Bahrain. This is regardless of the passport you use to re-enter the country. 

Tourists under 18 may not be allowed to enter Bahrain unless accompanied by a guardian.

If you overstay your visa, you may face:

• a significant fine
• detention while waiting to be deported
• a ban from re-entering the country.

Deportation processes may take time to resolve.

There's no Bahraini Embassy in Australia. The nearest Embassy of Bahrain is in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Authorities may ask detailed questions about why you're visiting. They sometimes refuse entry to Australians based on their answers.

They may not let you enter or exit Bahrain:

• if you're travelling on an emergency passport
• if your passport shows 'X' for indeterminate, intersex or unspecified in the sex field
• if the name and/or photo in your passport are different from how you present

The legal age of maturity in Bahrain is 21. A child of a Bahraini father does not need his permission to leave Bahrain unless there's a travel ban imposed on the child in connection with custody proceedings. 

Validity

If you travel to Bahrain on an Australian travel-related document issued to non-Australian citizens, you may not be able to enter Bahrain with an electronic visa (even if you obtained the visa online before your arrival). You'll need to contact your nearest Bahraini Embassy/Consulate for up-to-date advice and information on accepting your travel document and to seek options and confirmation on the appropriate visa that will be accepted to enter the country. 

If your entry into Bahrain is denied despite you having a valid Bahraini visa, the Australian Embassy in Riyadh won't be able to assist you in facilitating your entry.

Airlines may not allow holders of Australian travel-related documents issued to non-Australian citizens to board flights to Australia. Check your eligibility to re-enter Australia with the Department of Home Affairs and confirm with your airlines before your departure. 

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Bahrain has rules about the amount of currency you can bring in and take out. Currency limits can change. Check details with your nearest Bahraini Embassy or Bahrain Customs before your departure to Bahrain.

The local currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD).

Credit card facilities and ATMs are widely available.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Bahrain.

Road travel

Road travel can be dangerous. Unsafe driving is common, especially speeding. Public transport buses in Bahrain are very limited.

Visitors to Bahrain can only drive hire cars and not privately owned vehicles. 

If you have a non-Bahraini driving licence, you may only be allowed to use that licence and/or International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to three months from your arrival in the country. Check with the local Traffic Police and your rental company for up-to-date information.

The international licence must be endorsed by an office of the Bahraini traffic department or at any car rental office (available at the airport).

If you have a residency permit in Bahrain, you must obtain a Bahraini driver's licence through Bahrain's traffic department.

You must carry your driver's licence and vehicle registration cards when driving. If you're involved in an accident, notify the traffic police and ask for their instructions.

If an accident has led to legal proceedings, both drivers may be banned from leaving Bahrain until the issue is resolved. 

If you drive under the influence of alcohol, authorities will detain, fine and ban you from driving.

Off-road driving can be dangerous. Ensure vehicles are suitably equipped and maintained.

If you plan to drive:

• check your insurance covers you
• check local traffic laws and practices
• know what to do in case of an incident or accident
• always keep your car windows up and doors locked, even when moving

The minimum driving age is 18 years old. 

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer if your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use licensed taxis, ride-hailing service providers, and limousines, preferably arranged through your accommodation or licensed rideshare services.

If you choose to use official public marked taxis, ensure that the driver turns the meter on before you start the journey.

Don't share taxis with unknown passengers and refuse offers from drivers who approach you.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Sea travel

Many areas of the Gulf are sensitive to security issues and territorial disputes.

Disputes about sea boundaries can occur. There are disagreements about the sea boundaries and control of Abu Musa and Tunbs islands in the Southern Gulf.

Authorities can inspect your vessel, detain you and arrest you. There can be government curfews on the waters.

Ships and boats might not meet the safety standards you'd expect in Australia.

Always use available safety equipment, such as life jackets, even if others don't.

If the right safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

You may be at risk of piracy in the Gulf. Read the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports.

Current regional tensions pose an increased threat to maritime security, including the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz. Monitor the local and international media for up-to-date information. 

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

Check Bahrain's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Check the website of Bahrain International Airport for any relevant and up to date information.

More information:

• Air travel

Travelling with pets  

The Bahraini Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture must approve all pets imported into the Kingdom of Bahrain. You must obtain a permit from them before you bring your pet to Bahrain.

Contact your airline or travel agent for information before you travel. Also check the information available on the Bahraini Customs Affairs and the Contact Us | Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture for more information and requirements.

More information:

• Travelling with pets 

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire, ambulance, medical rescue services and police

Call 999.

Traffic police and reporting car accidents

Call 199.

Reporting cybercrimes

Call 992

Coastguard

Call 177 000 00

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Make sure you know your travel insurer's 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Bahrain. The Embassy of Australia in Saudi Arabia can give consular help to Australians in Bahrain though our ability to provide consular assistance may be limited. 

Embassy of Australia, Riyadh

Abdullah Bin Hozafa Al-Shami Avenue
Diplomatic Quarter 
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Phone: +966 11 250 0900
Website: saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au/ryad/home
X: @AusAmbKSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ausembksa
Facebook: @AusEmbKSA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ausembksa/

The Embassy in Riyadh is open Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for opening hours and temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia