Genvisec advises that business travel should continue with a crisis management plan in place in case of any unrest. Leisure travellers should reconsider holidaying in the country at the current time due to the high terrorist threat.

 

Crime

Around 8,000 to 10,000 foreign nationals live in Bahrain, and thousands more visit each year. Most visits are trouble free. Female visitors should take care when travelling alone at night. You should use one of the reputable taxi companies

 

There have been calls from radical groups to begin a campaign of violence against security forces from 24 April 2014. You should be especially vigilant at this timng several roadside bombs have been found during the week of 13th-20th July 2015.

 

An increase in demonstrations, protests and disruption is expected. These activities may include attempts to disrupt traffic, protests in villages and near economic centres, burning tyres, throwing Molotov cocktails, and the use of improvised explosive devices. There could be clashes between government security forces and protesters.

 

While there have been no direct threats or attacks on British nationals to date, following the discovery by the Bahraini authorities at the end of December 2013 of large caches of explosives and weapons, and a fatal bomb explosion on the Budaiya Highway near Al Daih on 3 March, you should be vigilant and aware of your surroundings wherever you are on the island.

 

If you encounter a large public gathering or demonstration, leave the area immediately. If you see any suspect item, don’t approach or touch it. Move away from the area and notify the police on 999 or 8000

 

Travel on the main routes during daylight hours is generally orderly. There are some police checkpoints. In September 2012 the Ministry for the Interior issued a warning about explosive devices on major highways.

 

During demonstrations, roads can become blocked, resulting in diversions. These may re-route you to areas you are unfamiliar with. You should familiarise yourself with alternative routes to and from areas you frequent.

 

Developments in Syria, Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region. You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues. Follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which may trigger public disturbances.

 

The Ministry of Interior has issued a reminder that all residents and visitors must carry photographic ID. Under Bahraini law, it is an offence not to be able to present photographic ID if asked to do so by a member of the Bahraini authorities, and you may be subject to a fine of up to 300BHD.

 

Road travel

 

You can drive using a UK licence for 3 months. If you are staying for a longer period of time, you should get an International Driving Permit. Bahrain operates a zero tolerance to drink-driving. If you are caught you will be arrested and put in the drivers prison. Your case will not be heard until the next working day. First time offenders will have to pay a minimum £900 fine and could be banned from driving in Bahrain. British visitors from Saudi Arabia will subject to the same punishment but with the addition of a driving ban there also. For repeat offenders the fine and ban will be more serious.

 

Air travel

 

You may face lengthy security checks on arrival at Bahrain airport.

 

Although alcohol is available at Bahrain airport, security officers and airline staff deal firmly with passengers believed to be drunk - even those who are in transit through the airport. You may be denied boarding, detained and fined.

 

Sea travel

 

Take care when travelling by Dhow. The safety of these vessels may not be up to European standards. Make sure life jackets are available.

 

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected, and there have been occasional arrests. Make careful enquiries before entering these waters or visiting ports.

 

Regional tensions may affect your route. Vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions may be at increased risk of maritime attack.

 

The Government of Bahrain has imposed a curfew on the waterways around Bahrain between 6pm and 4am. You should respect this curfew

 

Health

Contact your doctor around 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. 

 

You will be charged for emergency medical treatment. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

 

Emergency 112

National Emergency Call Center 999

Traffic Police 199

Emergency – Casualty Bureau 990

Emergency – Criminal Investigations (CID) 992

Emergency – Coast Guards (CGD) 994

 

Local laws and customs

 

Bahrain is a socially liberal state, but many Bahrainis are conservative.

 

Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan and Shia religious festivals. Bahrainis observe some religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in neighbouring Gulf countries.

 

Dress conservatively in public places, especially religious sites.

 

Don’t bring video cassettes or DVDs into the country. They may be withheld on arrival at the airport.

 

Homosexual behaviour is illegal.

 

The carrying of photographic ID for all residents of and visitors to Bahrain is compulsory. Under Bahraini law, it is an offence not to be able to present photographic ID, if asked to do so by a member of the Bahraini authorities, and you may be subject to a fine of up to 300BHD.

 

 

 

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