Bahrain
West Asia • BHR
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Bahrain is an inviting archipelago in the Arabian Gulf that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern luxury. It offers visitors a unique cultural experience characterized by world-class archaeological sites, vibrant traditional souqs, and a sophisticated culinary scene.
Visa Requirements
Most tourists can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa online prior to travel depending on their nationality.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
- Confirmed hotel booking details
Popular Attractions
Bahrain Fort: This UNESCO World Heritage site features impressive historical fortifications that date back to the Dilmun civilization.
Bab Al Bahrain Souq: A bustling market in Manama where travelers can shop for traditional pearls, spices, perfumes, and local handicrafts.
Tree of Life: An ancient, 400-year-old tree standing solitary in the middle of the desert, serving as a famous natural wonder.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, renowned for its beautiful architecture and welcoming guided tours for non-Muslims.
Bahrain National Museum: A premier cultural institution that offers deep insights into the country's rich history, from ancient civilizations to modern times.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly in public spaces by covering shoulders and knees out of respect for local Islamic traditions.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, especially women.
Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Avoid public displays of affection as they are considered inappropriate in Bahraini society.
During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
It is customary to accept coffee or dates when offered by locals as a gesture of hospitality.
Safety Tips
Bahrain is generally very safe with low crime rates, but travelers should maintain standard awareness of their surroundings.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential flight disruptions.
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during the extreme heat of the summer months.
Only use registered taxis or reputable ride-sharing applications for transportation within the city.
Keep digital and physical copies of your passport and important travel documents in a secure location.
Avoid public protests or political gatherings, as these can occasionally become tense.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow 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 sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
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 sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through food or water.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Contracted through contaminated 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