Moving to Bahrain
Expats moving to Bahrain will experience a busy and engaging city life and a blend of modernity with traditional Muslim culture on this archipelago.
Often referred to as “Middle East lite”, Bahrain can be considered a starter course set out to introduce foreigners to the characteristics so commonplace in many Persian Gulf nations. The country is considerably more liberal than its neighbours, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, but is still rooted in an Arab belief system.
There is a sizeable expat community in Bahrain, many of whom are more than willing to provide support to newcomers. However, expats relocating to this Gulf state will still have to contend with elements of culture shock and make some adjustments to their lifestyle.
Most expats moving to Bahrain do so for improved employment opportunities. The earning potential for expats is high in Bahrain and many report enjoying a higher standard of living than they had experienced in their home country.
As the financial centre of the Middle East, highly skilled foreigners will find plenty of positions available in the banking and construction sectors. Furthermore, as Bahrain had made efforts to diversify its economy beyond the petroleum industry, jobs in many multinational firms exist as well.
Moving to Bahrain also means bigger houses for many. A huge variety of accommodation designed to suit all budgets and tastes eagerly awaits new tenants. Expats can choose between towering high-rises, standalone villas or even homes enclaved in a secure compound.
While expats with children are unlikely to enrol their little ones in any of Bahrain’s public schools, plenty of excellent private and international options exist. Spots disappear quickly, though, so it’s important to make registration a priority upon relocation.
As far as Middle Eastern destinations are concerned, Bahrain is increasingly becoming an expat favourite and is a fantastic alternative location for those based in neighbouring countries looking to situate their families in a more liberal environment.
Population: 1.5 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: Unitary constitutional monarchy
Major religions: Islam with a 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
COST OF LIVING IN BAHRAIN
The cost of living in Bahrain is consistently on the increase due to inflation, as well as the presence of a growing Western expat population prepared to pay more 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 putting away a little something extra in the bank account.
The 2018 Mercer Cost of Living Survey ranked Manama, the country’s capital and largest city, 77th out of 209 cities. However, as in all locations, cost of living can vary tremendously depending on the lifestyle one chooses to lead.
In the past, accommodation and car allowances were common add-ons to expat salaries in Bahrain. However, in recent years, this tactic has fallen out of favour, so it’s vital to make sure one’s base payment plan adequately covers these expenses, and then some.
Cost of accommodation in Bahrain
Accommodation will be the largest expat expense, and costs have risen in recent years; many landlords actively ignore the cap placed on annual increases. Still, there are plenty of different housing options that satisfy nearly every budget.
Property inside expat compounds is by far the most expensive. In contrast, opting for an apartment in town will cost less.
Cost of schools 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 large unforeseen expense, especially for expats coming from countries where school expenses are covered or subsidised by the government. Tuition fees can vary depending on the school age of children and the school selected.
Expats sending their children to an international school may need to budget annually for school fees. Additional expenses may include extra-curricular activities, school uniforms, textbooks and other basic school supplies.
Cost of transport in Bahrain
Despite the island’s compact size, public transport options are limited, with the result that most expats will need to budget for a private vehicle. Again, prices vary tremendously based on a number of factors. A pre-owned older make and model will decrease in price accordingly.
Cost of food in Bahrain
Food costs in Bahrain are generally reasonable, especially if one foregoes the temptation of dining out and opts to eat at home more frequently. That being said, household labels from abroad will be highly priced, whereas fresh produce and local products are extremely affordable.
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 September 2018.
| Accommodation (monthly rent) | |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | 700 BHD |
| Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre | 450 BHD |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | 350 BHD |
| One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre | 250 BHD |
| Shopping | |
| Milk (1 litre) | 0.60 BHD |
| Dozen eggs | 0.90 BHD |
| Chicken breasts (1kg) | 2.30 BHD |
| Rice (1kg) | 0.85 BHD |
| Loaf of white bread | 0.40 BHD |
| Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) | 1.80 BHD |
| Eating out | |
| Big Mac meal | 2.40 BHD |
| Coca Cola (330ml) | 0.20 BHD |
| Cappuccino | 1.80 BHD |
| Bottle of beer | 3.50 BHD |
| Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | 15 BHD |
| Utilities/household | |
| Mobile call rate (per minute, mobile to mobile) | 0.05 BHD |
| Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable average per month) | 14 BHD |
| Hourly rate for a domestic cleaner | 2.80 BHD |
| Utilities (average per month for standard household) | 40 BHD |
| Transportation | |
| Taxi rate per km | 0.20 BHD |
| One-way ticket on public transport | 0.30 BHD |
| Petrol (per litre) | 0.20 BHD |
BANKING, MONEY AND TAXES IN BAHRAIN
Bahrain’s economy, though strong, is heavily reliant on petroleum and aluminium production, and its growth has slowed down somewhat as a result of the global economic crisis. However, Bahrain remains one of the most important centres for Islamic banking in the Middle East, and expats relocating there 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, and ½ BHD
Banking in Bahrain
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.
Opening hours for banks in Bahrain conform to Islamic culture and are generally between 7.30am and 2.30pm, from Sunday to Thursday.
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 customers withdrawing cash using a bank card issued by any Bahraini bank will incur no charges at the machines.
Bahraini society is very much cash-based, with very few people using credit or debit cards for small purchases.
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 in possession of 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.
Taxes in Bahrain
One of the great incentives for expats moving to Bahrain is that there is either very little personal or income tax levied against their salary each month, or none at all.
However, before getting too excited, expats are strongly advised to research whether a double-taxation avoidance agreement exists between Bahrain and their country of origin. If not, expats will have to pay tax in their country of origin on the money they earn in Bahrain.
TRANSPORT AND DRIVING IN BAHRAIN
Expats should be aware that it will likely take some time to get used to transport and driving in Bahrain. However, 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 only, most expats will find that driving is the easiest and most convenient way to get around in Bahrain.
Public transport in Bahrain
Buses
The primary mode of public transport in Bahrain is buses. Though buses are plentiful and cover just about anywhere one would need to go on the island, they don’t have air conditioning and are often crowded. The bus system is complex to navigate and route maps are not easy to understand, so if wanting to take a bus, it is best to speak to a member of staff at the bus station for assistance.
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 the roads are filled with unpredictable and dangerous driving, making this a far from ideal form of commute.
Taxis in Bahrain
Taxis are reliable and plentiful in Bahrain’s main city centres. Bahrain taxi fares are more expensive than taxi fares in the UAE and some expats find prices to be exorbitant. If using a taxi, expats should make sure that taxi drivers have their meters on at all times.
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.
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.
SAFETY IN BAHRAIN
Safety in Bahrain has been negatively affected by a politically turbulent period since early 2011, with periodic violent protests and demonstrations. The unrest has largely occurred outside of the capital, but protest activity in Manama is occasionally reported.
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 will 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.
Common sense precautions, such as avoiding travel at night in lower-income areas and securing valuables, will lower the risk of being targeted.
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.
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.
HEALTHCARE IN BAHRAIN
Expats living in Bahrain will find 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
Bahrain has taken steps to provide nationals with free and heavily subsidised healthcare. Expats can also access this service, but will tend to receive subsidised services requiring a small co-payment.
Although the country is growing rapidly, Bahrain’s relatively small population means that long queues or delayed appointment times are a rarity, even in public healthcare facilities.
Private healthcare in Bahrain
Although expats have access to the public system in Bahrain, many opt to take out private medical insurance and to use private facilities instead of public ones. Expats will find that the standard of care is excellent in Bahrain – however, it is important to be aware that specialist treatment centres may be limited and it may be necessary to seek such treatment outside of the country.
Health insurance in Bahrain
Although partially covered by Bahrain’s national health insurance scheme, expats can still benefit from comprehensive health insurance, including medical evacuation insurance. Many employers provide their employees with health insurance, but top-up insurance policies may be needed to ensure complete coverage.
Vaccinations for Bahrain
No special immunisations are required to travel to Bahrain, but expats should ensure that routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
Pharmacies and medicines in Bahrain
Pharmacies are easily found in Bahrain, some of which are open 24 hours a day.
Most medications are readily available at pharmacies. If a medicine is not available, the pharmacist should be able to order it in. Expats should be aware, however, that medications available over the counter in their home country may need a prescription in Bahrain, and vice versa.
Any prescription medicines being brought into Bahrain needs to be accompanied by a letter signed and stamped by a registered medical practitioner, stating that the medicine is for the personal use of the traveller or expat. It is also advisable to bring a copy of the original prescription.
Health hazards in Bahrain
Due to the extreme temperatures, heat stroke, sunburn and dehydration are the most common medical ailments affecting expats in Bahrain. In addition, continuous construction, accompanied by sand and dust from the island, can aggravate respiratory problems for expats, especially for those already suffering from conditions such as asthma.
Emergency services in Bahrain
Emergency medical services in Bahrain tend to be well-equipped, but are not always quick to respond. For this reason, wherever possible, expats are advised to get themselves to the hospital in the case of a medical emergency.
The number to call in the event of a medical emergency is 998.
WORKING IN BAHRAIN
Expats working in Bahrain will fast find the high salaries and no personal taxes an easy incentive for putting in the hours the daily grind demands.
In the past, Bahrain has been regarded as a hotspot among expat professionals and with most reporting a higher percentage of disposable income than they had in their home country. Unsurprisingly, this has drawn expats to Bahrain and by some accounts the majority of the population living in Bahrain are foreigners.
However, recently salaries in Bahrain have not been keeping up with the pace of global salary trends, which has slowed the flow of expats into the kingdom.
To legally work in Bahrain, expats need a sponsoring employer who can file an application for a work visa on their behalf. The company is required to justify why they were unable to source the particular candidate’s skills from the existing Bahraini workforce.
Job market in Bahrain
Oil was discovered in Bahrain in the 1930s, and while the oil industry is largely responsible for the country’s initial rapid modernisation, the Bahraini government has taken large leaps towards diversifying the economy. The archipelago is still a major petroleum producer, but Bahrain is also a banking and financial capital in the region.
As a result of Bahrain’s economic growth, many multinational companies have established their regional headquarters in Manama, its capital and commercial centre.
Besides oil and banking, other sectors that are major employers in Bahrain include tourism and construction.
Finding a job in Bahrain
While it is possible to arrive in Bahrain on a tourist visa and attempt to find work, it is difficult to find a job in the limited amount of time allotted. Furthermore, the opportunities available to an expat depend very much on their network and connections.
Most expats working in Bahrain are hired from abroad by recruitment agencies, head-hunted by individual firms, or transferred from another branch of a multinational corporation.
Work culture in Bahrain
Bahrain is credited with having the most liberal economy in the Middle East, so expat women moving to Bahrain will find that it is common for them to participate in the working world. However, both businessmen and women should dress conservatively for the business environment.
Expats should have no difficulty in communicating with their Bahraini colleagues as English is the dominant language in the workplace. However, many will notice that the way in which work is conducted can differ from practices in the West. Small talk is common and expats will benefit from getting to know their colleagues on a personal as well as professional level.
Punctuality is highly valued in Bahraini society so expats should make sure they arrive on time for appointments. Arriving late or being unprepared can easily ruin a reputation.
VISAS FOR BAHRAIN
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. However, 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.
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. However, it is worth being aware of the requirements as expats will be required to provide their employer with a number of important documents.
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 is important to note that a residency permit alone will not allow the holder to take up employment in Bahrain.
WORK PERMITS FOR BAHRAIN
In order for expats to legally work in Bahrain, they will need to obtain a work permit.
Bahrain’s workforce is made up of a large percentage of expats, and with such a large number of foreigners working in the Kingdom, the authorities have made the process of obtaining a work permit fairly straightforward.
However, expats do need to have employer sponsorship before they can apply for a work permit in Bahrain.
Applying for a work permit for Bahrain
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.
ACCOMMODATION IN BAHRAIN
Expats looking for accommodation in Bahrain will almost certainly find bigger, 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 any taste or budget.
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 further out in the suburbs. Though the difference is a mere 10- to 30-minute commute in what is likely to be a private vehicle, the type of accommodation 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 craftsman can also be commisioned 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 steam usually enlist the services of a real estate agent. These individuals are incredibly helpful and often go as far as to negotiate the lease once a property has been selected.
Many expats 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 property 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.
Rental contracts are available for various lengths of time. 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.
EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS IN BAHRAIN
Education in Bahrain is of a high standard, and as a result of the ever-growing expat population, there are plenty of schools 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 95 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 Islamic 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.