Bahrain
West Asia • BHR
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Bahrain is a captivating island nation in the Persian Gulf that perfectly balances ancient heritage with modern luxury. It offers visitors a unique blend of deep-rooted history, vibrant marketplaces, and world-class hospitality.
Visa Requirements
Most international visitors can obtain an e-visa online prior to arrival or a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport, depending on their nationality.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of hotel accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Qal'at al-Bahrain: This UNESCO World Heritage site is an impressive archaeological mound that served as the capital of the Dilmun civilization.
Bab el-Bahrain Souq: A bustling traditional market located in the heart of Manama where visitors can find authentic spices, gold, and local crafts.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, renowned for its beautiful architecture and capacity to hold over 7,000 worshippers.
Tree of Life: A 400-year-old prosopis cineraria tree standing alone in the desert, which remains a mysterious and popular natural wonder.
Bahrain National Museum: An excellent cultural institution that provides a comprehensive look at the history and archaeology of the kingdom.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly in public places by covering shoulders and knees to respect local cultural norms.
Always use your right hand for eating or handing items to others, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Avoid public displays of affection as these are considered disrespectful in Bahraini society.
During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, especially women, or government buildings.
Safety Tips
Bahrain is generally very safe, but remain aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas like marketplaces.
Stick to main roads when driving in desert areas and ensure you have plenty of water and a charged phone.
Avoid participating in political demonstrations or protests, as these can occasionally turn volatile.
Only use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps to ensure reliable and safe transportation.
Carry a digital or physical copy of your passport and visa at all times for identification purposes.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 9 months or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before traveling.
Includes MMR, Tdap, varicella, polio, and annual flu vaccine.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination; recommended for all travelers.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers; protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers; protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination; recommended for all travelers.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (e.g., repellents)
Source: CDC
To avoid insect-borne diseases, especially during outdoor activities.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended regardless of travel destination.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended regardless of travel destination.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Avoid insect-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illnesses.
Eat and drink only safe food and beverages.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Practice safe eating and drinking habits to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink only bottled or boiled water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Necessary to prevent insect-borne diseases, even in areas without malaria risk.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Essential to avoid diarrheal diseases and foodborne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink bottled or disinfected water.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended vaccination for protection against COVID-19.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
To prevent COVID-19 transmission during travel, recommended to be fully vaccinated.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended, especially during peak flu season.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have intimate exposure to the local population or require medical care.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To avoid mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, recommended for travelers visiting outdoor areas.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Contracted through contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through food or water.
View sourceRoutine food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid foodborne and waterborne illnesses while traveling.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Enhances safety from insect-borne diseases.
Use insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities like caving or those at high risk of animal bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
View sourceInfluenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Annual vaccination recommended for travelers due to flu season.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended as a cautionary measure for international travel.
View sourceConsider checking for updated health advisories (e.g., local outbreaks)
Source: CDC
Important for specific travel timelines and destinations within Bahrain.
View source