Maximum Alerts / Bahrain

BahrainLevel 3/4

Level published by the State Department on 26.08.2026 · read 16 October 2026 · source checked daily

Bahrain — official level as of 16 October 2026: Level 3/4 ("Reconsider Travel"), from the U.S. Department of State. Maximum Insurance covers this country: hospital settled directly, unlimited repatriation, EUR 1.5M, certificate on payment.

Four official readings
United StatesState Departmentsource ↗Our reference level — the one shown across this site
Is the whole country advised against?Except for imperative reasonsthe whole country is advised against, unless the reason is imperative
Level 3/4 — “Reconsider Travel”
FranceFrance Diplomatiesource ↗Added on top of the U.S. level, under its own rules: red or orange AREAS
Is the whole country advised against?Nono restriction on the whole country
our reading: no area of the country is classified red or orange
United KingdomFCDOsource ↗Added on top of the U.S. level, under its own rules: travel statuses
Is the whole country advised against?Nono restriction on the whole country
our reading: no travel advised against
source reviewed 20 August 2026
SwitzerlandFDFAsource ↗Advisory cited by the Maximum policy
Is the whole country advised against?Except for imperative reasonsthe whole country is advised against, unless the reason is imperative
our reading: Switzerland’s FDFA advises against tourist travel
advice published 24.07.2026
These readings do not say the same thing. The United States and Switzerland say except for imperative reasons; France and the United Kingdom say no — a 1-band gap on our comparison scale.Our comparison reading: 27 September 2026

All 207 countries compared, advisory by advisory →

How we read these four advisories

Every country has its own scale, so we ask them all the same question: is the whole country advised against?

An advisory covering only areas of the country does not raise the answer: it stays “No”, and the area is shown in the relevant column.

The level shown on this page — and across this site — is the one published by the U.S. State Department, from 1 (normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). France and the United Kingdom publish their own advisories, with their own rules: they add to that level, they do not replace it.

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Regional map…

1 recorded incident (UCDP)hover, click to open it in the briefing

Level 3/4 — Reconsider Travel Checked on 16 October 2026 · U.S. State Department
Country briefing
Get the PDF

Where are you right now in Bahrain?

Doctors — Manama26
DrDr. A. Saheb Ahmed0.4 km

Shaikh Isa Avenue

Google MapsDirections
DrAster Clinic0.6 km

near طريق 2151

Google MapsDirections
DrDr. Yousif Akasar0.7 km

Al-Shuyoukh Avenue

Google MapsDirections
DrMedical Care Centre0.7 km

near شارع الشيوخ

Google MapsDirections
DrAl Hoora Health Centre1.2 km

near طريق 1913

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DrIrish Speciality Clinic1.3 km

near طريق 1907

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DrAl Turki Medical Est.1.4 km

near طريق 1910

Google MapsDirections
DrThe Specialist Medical Centre2.0 km

3221

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DrCapital Medical Complex2.1 km

near طريق 3201

Google MapsDirections
DrAl Hakeem Medical Complex2.2 km

2901

Google MapsDirections
DrAl Khaleej Polyclinic2.2 km

near طريق 2901

Google MapsDirections
DrElite Medical Center2.6 km

18th floor 2421 manama
general;dentistry;dermatology;gynaecology;emergency;blood_check;dermatovenereolo
Sa-Th 08:30 AM-22:00 PM

DrDr. Harraz Pediatric Clinic2.9 km

Highway 35

Google MapsDirections
DrKims Bahrain Medical Center3.0 km

near شارع الشيخ عطية الله بن عبدالرحمن

Google MapsDirections
DrBahrain Medical Society3.0 km

near طريق 2425

DrWellmed3.8 km

near طريق 6261

Google MapsDirections
DrAl Nabawi Medical Center3.9 km

Shaikh Isa Avenue

Google MapsDirections
DrPlastic Surgery & Laser4.5 km

near طريق 6465

Google MapsDirections
DrLondon Breast Care Centre4.5 km

near طريق 6465

Google MapsDirections
DrBMC4.9 km

Avenue 1

Google MapsDirections
DrNutriton Center5.1 km

2825
Sa-Th 10:00-22:00; Fr 15:30-22:00

DrBaharain Medical Laboratory5.3 km

2651

Google MapsDirections
DrDr. Sahera Clinic5.5 km

Shela Avenue

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DrDoctor Yusuf Alhusta Clinic5.5 km

near شارع شيلا

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DrAl Jazeera Medical Center6.5 km

near شارع القاهرة

Google MapsDirections
DrAl-Rassalha7.1 km

Isa Town
24/7

Google MapsDirections
Pharmacies — Manama38
+Rula Pharmacy0.3 km

Palace Avenue

Google MapsDirections
+Happy Pharmacy0.4 km

2103

Google MapsDirections
+Tariq Pharmacy0.4 km

Shaikh Isa Avenue

Google MapsDirections
+Behzad Pharmacy0.5 km

2153

Google MapsDirections
+Al Danah Pharmacy1.0 km

1805

Google MapsDirections
+Jaffar Pharmacy1.3 km

شارع طرفة بن العبد

Google MapsDirections
+Manama Pharmacy1.5 km

Government Avenue

Google MapsDirections
+Al Bader Pharmacy2.2 km

near طريق 2909

Google MapsDirections
+Boots2.2 km
Google MapsDirections
+Al Fateh Pharmacy2.5 km

near طريق 2421

Google MapsDirections
+Juffair Pharmacy2.8 km

near شارع الشباب

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie3.0 km

3709

+Salma Pharmacy3.0 km

near شارع الشيخ عطية الله بن عبدالرحمن

Google MapsDirections
+Al Hilal Pharmacy3.2 km

Avenue 10

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+Al Mahmeed Pharmacy3.4 km

Shaik Hamad Avenue

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+Gulf Pharmacy3.9 km

near شارع 13

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+People Pharmacy4.4 km

Al Khalifa Avenue

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+Al Snan Pharmacy4.6 km

Sheik Mohammed Bin Salman Avenue

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+Pharmacy Shop4.6 km

Abdul Rahman Al Fadhel Avenue

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+Al Muwasaa4.7 km

Shaikh Isa Avenue

Google MapsDirections
+Guld Community Pharmacy4.7 km

Busaiteen Avenue

Google MapsDirections
+Al Shan Pharmacy4.9 km

Avenue 1

Google MapsDirections
+AlRazi Pharmacy5.0 km

Avenue 14

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+Tadawi Pharmacy5.0 km

Avenue 1

Google MapsDirections
+Al-Hekma Pharmacy5.2 km

Budaiya Highway

Google MapsDirections
+Arad pharmacy5.6 km

near شارع 29

Google MapsDirections
+Al Maraya Pharmacy - صيدلية المرايا6.5 km

Kawara Village / Tubli Village
24/7

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+صيدلية درة عراد6.6 km

544 طريق 4415

+Green Pharmacy6.7 km

near شارع حاتم الطائي

Google MapsDirections
+Nassear6.7 km

Sitra

+Alharamain Pharmacy6.8 km

903

Google MapsDirections
+Al-Deerah7.1 km

near طريق 813

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie7.1 km

مدينة عيسى

+al hayia pharmacy7.1 km

Al-Doha Avenue
24/7

Google MapsDirections
+Jaffar Pharmacy7.2 km

5043

Google MapsDirections
+Jassim Pharmacy7.3 km

Avenue 1

Google MapsDirections
+Al-Hidd Pharmacy7.4 km

near طريق 210

Google MapsDirections
+PharmaCare7.5 km

near طريق 3619

Google MapsDirections
Official — Manama12
Consulates and embassies 12
Aالسفارة الإماراتية فى المنامة1.0 km

270 طريق 2510 Manama
Mo-Fr 08:00-15:00

Aسفارة جمهورية ألمانيا1.0 km

near شارع السلمانية

Aسفارة اليابانية1.0 km

55 شارع السلمانية

AEmbassy of India1.1 km

near طريق 2615

Google MapsDirections
AHonorary Consulate of South Africa1.1 km

شارع الحكومة Manama

AEmbassy of Yemen1.4 km

near طريق 2802

Google MapsDirections
APakistan Embassy1.4 km

near طريق 2802

Google MapsDirections
AMoroccan Embassy1.7 km

near شارع عمان

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AEmbassy of Bangladesh1.9 km

near طريق 3212

Google MapsDirections
Aسفارة الفلبين2.1 km

near طريق 3220

Google MapsDirections
Aسفارة جمهورية إيران الإسلامية2.2 km

near طريق 3224

Google MapsDirections
Aسفارة جمهورية مصر العربية2.2 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Police — Manama5
PUmm Al Hassam Police Station2.9 km

near شارع الفاتح

Google MapsDirections
PMuharraq Public Security Headquarters4.0 km

near طريق 1653

Google MapsDirections
PExhibition Police Station4.2 km

near شارع 28

Google MapsDirections
PHidd Police Station7.1 km

near طريق 301

Google MapsDirections
PGeneral Director of Al-Wasta police7.7 km

Isa Town

Google MapsDirections
Transport — Manama12
Bus 4
TSaptco1.5 km

near طريق 1522

Google MapsDirections
TManama Bus Terminal1.6 km

المنامة

TMuharraq Bus Terminal3.3 km

المحرق

TIsa Town Bus Terminal7.1 km

near شارع دمشق

Google MapsDirections
Taxis 8
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة - مجمع يتيم1.1 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة - باب البحرين1.2 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة - باب البحرين 21.3 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة1.4 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة1.5 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tوقف سيارات الأجرة - فندق الخليج1.6 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة - المنطقة الدبلوماسية1.6 km

المنامة

Google MapsDirections
Tموقف سيارات الأجرة2.5 km

الجفير

Google MapsDirections

The next 7 days around Manama Asia/BahrainMET Norway ↗read 16.10.2026

Fri 16 Oct31–36°partly cloudy
Sat 17 Oct30–38°clear
Sun 18 Oct30–36°clear
Mon 19 Oct29–36°clear
Tue 20 Oct28–34°clear
Wed 21 Oct29–34°mainly clear
Thu 22 Oct29–34°mainly clear

Forecast: MET Norway (Norwegian Meteorological Institute, CC BY 4.0), grouped by day and formatted by Maximum.

Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

10-16 0.0 · 10-17 0.0 · 10-18 0.0 · 10-19 0.0 · 10-20 0.0 · 10-21 0.0 · 10-22 0.0 m³/s

Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.

No geolocated event in this country at this reading.

1 incidents recorded in the country, all pinned on the map above (zoom out) — the 1 closest to Manama are listed here, nearest first.

  • 1.0 km · 10 March 2026 · Manama city
    One killed, others injured in Iranian attack in Bahrain: ministry · 1 deaths
    Agence France Presse

Source: UCDP — GEDEvent_v26_01_26_06.csv. Closed period, Clear coding, precise location.

No news located around Manama in this reading.

The country feed →

National numbers (Wikidata, 2026 reading). On site, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: the insurer sends its payment guarantee to the hospital.

Recommended vaccines and medicines9

Routine vaccinesCDC ↗

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include Chickenpox (Varicella) Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP, Tdap, or Td) Flu (influenza) Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Polio Shingles

COVID-19CDC ↗

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information.

Hepatitis ACDC ↗

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Bahrain. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series. Travelers allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Hepatitis BCDC ↗

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Bahrain. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Bahrain.

MeaslesCDC ↗

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

MonkeypoxCDC ↗

Monkeypox vaccination is recommended for any adult who anticipates any of the following activities during travel: Sexual or intimate contact with a new partner Sexual or intimate contact at a commercial sex venue, like a sex club or bathhouse Sexual or intimate contact in exchange for money, goods, drugs, or other trade Sexual or intimate contact in association with a large public event, such as a rave, party, or…

RabiesCDC ↗

Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Bahrain. If rabies exposures occur while in Bahrain, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

TyphoidCDC ↗

Recommended for most travelers. Typhoid vaccine is not 100% effective. Practicing safe food and water habits , including washing hands at key times , can also help prevent typhoid fever .

Yellow FeverCDC ↗

CDC recommendations: Vaccine is not recommended. Country entry requirements: Direct travel from United States: Vaccine is not required. Travel from countries with risk for YF virus transmission: Vaccine is required for travelers ≥9 months old; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 3 Updated April 23, 2025 See footnotes

CDC Travelers' Health, re-read weekly — the recommendation depends on your age, vaccines and itinerary: confirm it with a doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure.CDC ↗read 10.10.2026

Diseases without a vaccine — how they spread

Avoid contaminated food and water
  • Leptospirosis — Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud Drinking water or eating foo
Airborne & droplet
  • Hantavirus — Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents Bite from an infected rodent Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus
  • Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) — Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes May spread to people from camels.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) — Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Risks in figures

Tuberculosis — cases per 100,000
Bahrain12 2024
Switzerland5 2024
France8 2024

Low incidence, comparable to Europe.

Children vaccinated against measles (%)
Bahrain99 2024
Switzerland96 2024
France95 2024

High coverage.

World Bank — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

The official advice, in full

Source: France Diplomatie (health advice, in French).

In brief
  • Consult your doctor or an international vaccination centre at least eight weeks before departure to assess your health and receive vaccination recommendations. France Diplomatie
  • Ensure you are up to date with French vaccination calendar, particularly against diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, pertussis and measles; your vaccination record may be requested upon arrival. France Diplomatie
  • Carry only necessary medications in original packaging with original labels, accompanied by a prescription listing drugs by international non-proprietary name; verify authorisation in your destination country. France Diplomatie
  • Never consume medicines bought on the street due to counterfeiting risk; if using prescribed drugs, carry a doctor's note and seek prior agreement from Bahrain authorities before bringing prescription drugs. Foreign Office
  • Hospitals in Bahrain require written guarantee of cost coverage before treatment; in emergencies, provide guarantee within 24 hours of admission; ensure adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds. Foreign Office
  • Avoid contact with camels and dromedaries and consumption of camel meat or milk; avoid large gatherings; wash hands regularly; drink only bottled, boiled or treated water to prevent MERS-CoV and typhoid fever. France Diplomatie

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

WHO: no outbreak reported for this country in the last 24 months (Disease Outbreak News).who.int ↗read 15.10.2026

FDFA (Switzerland) — medical care, in French

Medical care

Les soins médicaux sont assurés. Les hôpitaux exigent une garantie écrite de prise en charge des frais avant de commencer un traitement. En cas d’urgence, la garantie doit être fournie à l’hôpital dans les 24 heures suivant l’admission à l’hôpital. Si vous prenez régulièrement des médicaments , emportez-en une quantité suffisante avec vous. N’oubliez toutefois pas que l’importation de médicaments contenant des stupéfiants (p. ex. méthadone) ou l'importation de substances utilisées pour traiter des troubles psychiques est soumise à des prescriptions spéciales dans de nombreux pays. Le cas échéant, renseignez-vous à ce sujet, avant le départ, auprès de la représentation étrangère compétente (ambassade ou consulat) et consultez la rubrique Liens voyages , où vous trouverez, entre autres, de plus amples informations sur ce thème ainsi que sur la médecine du voyage en général. Les informations concernant la propagation de maladies et les éventuelles mesures de protection à prendre sont fournies par le personnel médical et les centres de vaccination. Liens voyages

France Diplomatiesource ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Recommandations pour la santé

Consulter si besoin son médecin traitant ou un centre de vaccinations internationales (médecine des voyages) pour faire une évaluation de son état de santé et bénéficier de recommandations sanitaires, notamment sur les vaccinations. Consulter éventuellement son dentiste avant le départ.

Constituer sa pharmacie personnelle en conséquence et n’emporter dans ses bagages que les médicaments strictement nécessaires ; ne jamais consommer de médicaments achetés dans la rue (risque de contrefaçons). Les médicaments doivent être dans leur emballage d’origine avec les étiquettes originales, accompagnés d’une ordonnance portant le nom des médicaments en dénomination commune internationale (DCI). Il est indispensable de vérifier que les médicaments concernés sont autorisés dans le pays visité : pour plus d’informations, consulter la fiche Informations pratiques .

Vaccinations

Les vaccins recommandés en France sont également indispensables lors d’un séjour à l’étranger : les maladies qu’ils préviennent circulent partout dans le monde, parfois même plus fréquemment qu’en France. Avant tout départ, le voyageur (adulte et enfant) doit donc d’abord s’assurer d’être à jour du calendrier vaccinal français, en particulier des vaccins contre la diphtérie, le tétanos, la poliomyélite, la coqueluche mais aussi contre la rougeole. Le carnet de vaccination peut être demandé à l’arrivée de certains pays.

Des vaccinations complémentaires peuvent être nécessaires :

  • Fièvre jaune : obligatoire pour les voyageurs en provenance de zones d’endémie ;
  • Hépatite A : en fonction des conditions et de la durée de séjour ;
  • Fièvre typhoïde : en fonction des conditions et de la durée de séjour ;
  • Méningite ACWY : en cas de séjour pendant la saison sèche (habituellement hiver et printemps) ou d’épidémie signalée ;
  • Rage : notamment enfants en bas âge, séjour en milieu rural ou éloigné des villes principales ;
  • Hépatite B : en cas de séjours fréquents ou prolongés ;
  • Mpox : en cas d’exposition à risque ;

Il est donc conseillé de consulter son médecin traitant ou un centre de vaccinations internationales (médecine des voyages) suffisamment de temps avant le voyage.

Risques sanitaires

Coronavirus MERS-CoV

Les coronavirus sont une vaste famille de virus susceptibles de provoquer un large éventail de maladies chez l’humain, du rhume banal jusqu’à une atteinte respiratoire sévère. Concernant le Mers CoV, la présentation la plus fréquente associe de la fièvre et une infection pulmonaire qui peut être sévère. Des formes mortelles sont possibles. Il n’existe pas de vaccin.

Les mesures classiques d’hygiène sont recommandées :

  • Se laver régulièrement les mains à l’eau et au savon ou avec une solution hydro-alcoolique ;
  • Éviter le contact avec les animaux en particulier avec les chameaux et les dromadaires ainsi que la consommation de viande de chameau ou lait de chamelle ;
  • Éviter les grands rassemblements ainsi que tout contact rapproché avec des personnes malades.

En cas de survenue de forte fièvre, de toux et/ou de difficultés respiratoires, y compris après le retour consulter un médecin en urgence ou contacter le Samu (15).

Pour toute information complémentaire , consulter la rubrique risques sanitaires ainsi que les sites internet du ministère de la santé et de l’ Organisation mondiale de la Santé .

Fièvre typhoïde

La fièvre typhoïde est une maladie infectieuse causée par des bactéries présentes dans l’eau contaminée par des matières fécales d’origine humaine. L’infection résulte le plus souvent de l’ingestion d’eau ou d’aliments contaminés, ou d’une transmission directe de personne à personne. Les symptômes surviennent en moyenne 3 semaines après la contamination et associent fièvre, maux de tête, perte d’appétit, douleurs abdominales avec diarrhée ou constipation, fatigue et parfois, éruption cutanée. Dans les formes plus graves, la fièvre typhoïde peut être fatale en l’absence de traitement.

Les mesures de prévention reposent sur…

Règles d'hygiène alimentaire
  • Se laver les mains régulièrement avec de l’eau et du savon ou des solutions de lavage hydroalcooliques, surtout avant et après les repas et le passage aux toilettes ;
  • Veiller à la qualité des aliments et surtout à leur bonne cuisson ;
  • Éviter la consommation de produits alimentaires (poisson, viande, volaille, lait) crus ou peu cuits ;
  • Peler les fruits et légumes ou les laver soigneusement (à l’eau saine) ;
  • Éviter les crudités, coquillages, plats réchauffés et buffets froids ;
  • Ne boire que de l’eau ou des boissons encapsulées ou de l’eau rendue potable (filtration, ébullition ou à défaut produit désinfectant).

Pour plus d’informations, consulter le site du ministère en charge de la Santé .

Health — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Health — Foreign Office

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

  • check the latest vaccine recommendations for Bahrain
  • see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Bahrain .

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

If you are using prescribed drugs, you should carry a doctor’s note. If you plan to bring prescription drugs into Bahrain, you may need to seek prior agreement from the authorities. Check with the nearest Bahrain Embassy or consulate before you travel.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Bahrain

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Bahrain where some staff will speak English.

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.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro . See guidance on mental health support for UK Nationals in Bahrain .

Air Quality

Poor outdoor air quality is a risk in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Read about the risks from poor air quality on TravelHealthPro .

You can find more information and advice on air quality on the World Health Organisation (WHO) website and check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index .

TravelHealthPro ↗

Places read from OpenStreetMap, within a circle of about 12 km: phone, email, address, website and hours when the source publishes them. No customer reviews, that source has none. Straight-line distances.

The comparator

What is your current insurance?

The verdict
No area exclusion at this level — but three written limits: deductible and prior approval, 90-day cap, advance under conditions.
Exact wording (official French text): « Des Voyages vers des pays où Votre gouvernement a conseillé de ne pas voyager » — general exclusion n° 11, applying to ALL travel covers.
Line by line
Cover
With your Amex Platinum
Territorial exclusion at this level
No territorial exclusion at this level — the clause targets countries your government advised against travelling to
Covered — the core of the Maximum contract
Medical expenses cap abroad
€2M — but 10% deductible (€150–500), insurer's prior approval, trip paid with the Card
EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses
Hospital deposit before admission
Advance possible — prior approval required before care
Direct payment guarantee: the insurer settles the hospital
Trip duration covered
Maximum 90 consecutive days per trip
12 months, unlimited trips
Visa certificate (incl. Schengen)
Not provided
Official named certificate, issued on payment

Notices vary by bank and vintage — yours prevails. On the right: the Maximum contract (public documents).

Where to go, where not to

At least one official reading covers the whole country; no region is singled out.

In brief
  • Avoid non-essential travel to Bahrain due to the volatile security situation in the region. Global Affairs Canada

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Manama (Capital): the whole country is rated “advised against — all but essential travel” (Global Affairs Canada).The red dot on the map. Change the city at the top of the page to read the map from another point.

Global Affairs Canada — advises against all but essential travel to the whole country.

Capital — Advised against — all but essential travelNorthern — Advised against — all but essential travelSouthern — Advised against — all but essential travelCentral — Advised against — all but essential travelMuharraq — Advised against — all but essential travelSouthernCentralManama
Advised against — all but essential travelManamaSynthesis of the readings: Global Affairs Canada. Where they differ, the colour keeps the strictest reading; the official text, quoted below region by region, prevails. Boundaries: Natural Earth.
Advised against — all but essential travel
the whole country, including Manama (Global Affairs Canada)
So:

an official reading covers the whole country; every trip calls for a written management decision, justified by a pressing reason, with reinforced conditions.

US26.08.2026
Level 3 of 4Reconsider travel
FR17.07.2026
Except for imperative reasonsYour region (Capital): covered, like the whole country
GB08.10.2026
No area coveredYour region (Capital): not covered
CA14.10.2026
Avoid non-essential travelYour region (Capital): covered, like the whole country
CH24.07.2026
Tourist travel advised againstSwitzerland’s FDFA advises against tourist travel.
Maximum does not exclude these areas.The VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there. Still enforceable: sanctions and embargoes, and a country already at war at departure. Extraction and security belong to the VIP Pack Extreme, upon eligibility. See My cover

Global Affairs Canada — Open Government Licence – Canada (14.10.2026) · Foreign Office — Open Government Licence v3.0 · France Diplomatie (17.07.2026) · Natural Earth

No located event in this reading.

Last change: Updated information about Bahraini-UK dual nationality, laws and cultural differences, and air quality in Bahrain ('Entry requirements’, ‘Safety and security’ and 'Health' pages).

Bahrain - Level 3: Reconsider TravelState Department ↗updated 26.08.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Updated 26.08.2026

Reconsider travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict .

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel to Bahrain. Only family members 18 years of age or older may join U.S. government employees who work in Bahrain.

Armed Conflict

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, 2026, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

Terrorism

There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Bahrain. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and religious sites as well as government and military facilities.

Aviation Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an ongoing Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Bahrain. For more information Americans should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

10-16 0.0 · 10-17 0.0 · 10-18 0.0 · 10-19 0.0 · 10-20 0.0 · 10-21 0.0 · 10-22 0.0 m³/s

Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.

Where, exactly?

What the national level does not tell you

The level is national. Risk areas are in the state advisories below.

  • U.S. State Department — the full advisory details the regions concerned and the reasons (crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest) (read the advisory)
  • Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (United Kingdom) — the United Kingdom advises against no travel to this country · reviewed 8 October 2026
    Last announced change : « Updated information about Bahraini-UK dual nationality, laws and cultural differences, and air quality in Bahrain ('Entry requirements’, ‘Safety and security’ and 'Health' pages). » (read the advisory)
  • France Diplomatie — the French advisory advises against travel except for imperative reasons: « Il est déconseillé aux ressortissants français, sauf pour des raisons impératives, de se rendre à Bahreïn. » (read the advisory)

No major event in progress is located in this country at this morning's check.

What happened, and where

Over 1 January 2026 → 30 June 2026, UCDP (Uppsala University) recorded 1 geolocated violent incidents in this country, for 1 documented deaths.

Most affected areas
Al ‘Āşimah governorate 1

Most recent incidents

  • 10 March 2026 · Al ‘Āşimah governorate · Manama city
    One killed, others injured in Iranian attack in Bahrain: ministry · 1 deathSource: Agence France Presse · 9 March 2026 · Bahrain's interior ministry · UCDP #624759 ↗

Source: UCDP Georeferenced Event Dataset (Uppsala Conflict Data Program), file GEDEvent_v26_01_26_06.csv, CC BY 4.0 licence. We keep only incidents UCDP codes as "Clear" and whose location is precise enough to be placed — about 58% of the dataset. An incident may be revised, moved or withdrawn by UCDP in a later release: these figures describe a closed period, not a live situation.

Safety in figures
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people
Bahrain0.2 2022
Switzerland0.6 2023
France1.3 2023
Road traffic deaths per 100,000 people
Bahrain5.2 2019
Switzerland2.2 2019
France5.1 2019

Reading: The homicide rate is in the same range as Switzerland or France. On the road, 2 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

What we locate on the map are events in progress that have real coordinates: USGS earthquakes, GDACS disasters, NOAA storms and open NASA EONET events. Hover a dot for details, click to open it in this briefing.

I travel on a passportEach government writes for its own nationals. The advisory that counts for you — and for your policy's clauses — is your country's.

French passport — France Diplomatie

In brief
  • French nationals are advised against travel to Bahrain except for imperative reasons, as of 17 July 2026. France Diplomatie
  • The extreme south of the island is a prohibited military zone; private roads marked with signs are forbidden; photographing sensitive sites risks prosecution. France Diplomatie
  • Avoid gatherings near Budaiya Highway west of Manama, and in Diraz, Saar, Sitra, Manama and Muharraq, particularly during elections, February 2011 anniversary, and Ashura celebrations. France Diplomatie
  • Carry identity documents at all times; absence during police checks incurs substantial fines. France Diplomatie
  • Road traffic is dangerous due to speeding, inadequate safety distances and sudden lane changes; exercise cautious driving. France Diplomatie
  • Common scams target French nationals through identity theft, phone-based data collection, online sales and rentals; verify company legitimacy before payments. France Diplomatie

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Il est déconseillé aux ressortissants français, sauf pour des raisons impératives, de se rendre à Bahreïn.France Diplomatie ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Bahreïn

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Zones de vigilance

Dernière actualisation le 17/07/2026, information toujours valable à la date du jour

Il est déconseillé aux ressortissants français, sauf pour des raisons impératives, de se rendre à Bahreïn.

L’accès à l’extrême sud de l’île est interdit (zone militaire). Il est défendu d’emprunter les routes signalées par un panneau " private road ". De manière générale, il est déconseillé de s’approcher de sites militaires. Dans le contexte de la crise au Moyen-Orient, la prise de photos de sites ou de scènes sensibles est passible de poursuites.

Situation régionale

Compte tenu de la situation régionale, les voyages vers Bahreïn sont déconseillés, sauf pour des raisons impératives. L’évolution de la situation dans la région doit faire l’objet d’une attention constante et soutenue.

Risque terroriste régional

La menace terroriste à Bahreïn est relativement peu élevée mais le contexte régional doit inciter à se tenir informé, et à adopter un comportement prudent et vigilant.

Manifestations

La situation régionale pourrait avoir des conséquences sur la situation sécuritaire intérieure. Des situations de tensions locales ou régionales peuvent subvenir et donner lieu à des rassemblements.

Bien que les Français ne soient pas ciblés, il convient d’être vigilant et de se tenir à distance des rassemblements qui peuvent prendre forme à l’occasion de la survenue d’une tension ou lors de la célébration d’évènements politiques ou religieux (période d’élections, anniversaire du soulèvement de février 2011, fêtes de l’Achoura par exemple).

Ces rassemblements peuvent générer des difficultés de circulation, notamment dans l’après-midi et en soirée. Ils se tiennent pour l’essentiel près des axes de circulation (Budaiya Highway, à l’ouest de Manama) et des localités de Diraz, Saar et Sitra.

En cas d’incident ou dans ce contexte, des heurts entre manifestants et forces de l’ordre ne sont pas à exclure.

Certains quartiers de la capitale Manama et de l’île de Muharraq peuvent également faire l’objet de rassemblements ponctuels.

Arnaques

A Bahreïn comme dans de nombreux pays, les ressortissants français peuvent être la cible d’arnaques en tous genres ayant pour principal objectif d’extorquer les voyageurs. Il est recommandé de consulter le guide de prévention contre les arnaques .

Les escroqueries les plus courantes concernent l’usurpation d’identité, la collecte de données personnelles et bancaires par téléphone, la vente en ligne, la location. Dans tous les cas, il est recommandé d’être vigilant, de vérifier systématiquement le sérieux des sociétés auxquelles vous vous adressez, notamment avant versement de toute caution ou avance pécuniaire. Si un voyageur est victime d’une arnaque, il peut effectuer un signalement sur la plateforme Pharos ainsi qu’aux autorités locales sur le site dédié du ministère de l’Intérieur.

Circulation routière

Malgré un réseau routier excellent, la circulation peut être dangereuse du fait d’une part, du non-respect des limitations de vitesse et des distances de sécurité, et, d’autre part, des changements de files intempestifs. Il est conseillé d’adopter une conduite prudente et vigilante.

Recommandations générales

Il est indispensable d’avoir sur soi un document d’identité. En cas de contrôle, l’absence de pièce d’identité peut entraîner le paiement d’une amende importante. La société bahreïnienne est tolérante mais il est recommandé de respecter les habitudes sociales et religieuses du pays (voir rubrique Infos utiles ).

Full text of the Security pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland), in French

In brief
  • Demonstrations are banned; occasional protests cause riots and clashes with security forces resulting in deaths and injuries. Avoid all gatherings and comply strictly with local authorities' directives including curfews. DFAE
  • Terrorist attacks cannot be excluded; security forces and state infrastructure in Manama and surrounding areas have been targeted previously. Stay informed on current security situation before and during your stay. DFAE
  • Do not move vehicles after traffic accidents until police arrive, as this may be interpreted as admission of guilt. Speeding and frequent traffic violations significantly increase accident risk. DFAE
  • Heavy rainfall can cause flooding and temporary traffic disruptions. Consult weather forecasts and follow local authorities' warnings and evacuation instructions. DFAE

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

FDFA update note — Désormais, les voyages touristiques et non urgents à destination du Bahreïn sont déconseillés. (published 24.07.2026)

General assessment

Les tensions entre le gouvernement sunnite et la majorité chiite marquent la situation à Bahreïn. Les manifestations sont interdites, mais des protestations occasionnelles entraînent des émeutes et des confrontations avec les forces de sécurité, pouvant causer des morts et des blessés. Des perturbations du trafic et des barrages routiers sont également possibles. Le risque d'attentats terroristes ne peut pas être exclu à Bahreïn non plus. Dans le passé, surtout les forces de sécurité et l’infrastructure étatique à Manama et dans ses environs immédiats ont été ciblées. La rubrique terrorisme et enlèvements attire l'attention sur les risques liés au terrorisme. Terrorisme et enlèvements Avant et pendant le voyage, informez-vous sur la situation sécuritaire actuelle dans les médias, par le biais de votre tour-opérateur ou par des personnes de contact sur place. Tenez-vous à l'écart des manifestations et, de manière générale, des rassemblements de foule de tout genre. Conformez-vous scrupuleusement aux directives des autorités locales (par exemple couvre-feux).

Crime

Prenez les précautions d'usage contre la petite délinquance. Une certaine vigilance est de mise lorsque vous traitez avec de nouveau contacts d’affaires.

Natural hazards

De fortes pluies peuvent provoquer des inondations. La circulation peut s’en trouver temporairement perturbée. Consultez les prévisions météorologiques et suivez les avertissements et les instructions des autorités locales (p. ex. evacuations). Emergency Services in Bahrain

FDFA travel advice, in French, valid on 15.10.2026eda.admin.ch ↗updated 24.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

British passport — Foreign Office (UK)

In brief
  • Since 8 July, Iran has conducted strikes and retaliatory attacks across the Middle East region, including Bahrain, against US military and civilian infrastructure, with risk of further attacks and escalation. Foreign Office
  • On 20 July, the US Embassy Manama advised that Iran may target unspecified locations in central Manama; the Iranian regime previously stated intention to target US and Israel-associated locations. Foreign Office
  • British nationals in the Middle East should prepare for flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions; keep departure plans under review and ensure travel documents are current. Foreign Office
  • If advised to take shelter, stay indoors in a secure structure with few external walls or windows; the greatest risk is falling debris from intercepts; do not touch drone or missile fragments. Foreign Office
  • Terrorists are likely to attempt attacks in Bahrain, potentially indiscriminate and targeting residential compounds, military facilities, public places including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques. Foreign Office
  • Demonstrations occur frequently in Sitra, Bani Jamra, Karbabad, Saar, Karzakan, Budaiya Highway, Diraz, Sanabis, Al Dair, Adliya and Nuwaidrait; public gatherings in roads or public squares are temporarily banned. Foreign Office

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Warnings — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Regional tensions

The US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 17 June in relation to the conflict in the Middle East, however the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable. Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region, including Bahrain, against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. On 20 July, the US Embassy Manama issued an advisory that Iran may seek to target unspecified locations in central Manama. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.

British nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions, and should:

- read  If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK . This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”

- sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts

- follow advice from the local authorities

- monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice

- stay away from areas around security or military facilities

- keep your departure plans under review, noting that in April 2026 there was simultaneous closure of airspace and the King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia, and ensure your travel documents are up to date

- if advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects

Safety — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Bahrain

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

Previous attacks using explosive devices in public places have killed and injured people. Such an attack has not been carried out successfully for several years.

Terrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including on:

  • residential compounds
  • military, oil, transport and aviation interests
  • public places, including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques

Be aware of your surroundings, particularly during high profile events, and avoid large demonstrations.

Political situation

Public gatherings, commemorations, demonstrations and protests take place. This can cause:

  • disruption to traffic and roadblocks
  • disturbances in villages and near economic centres
  • localised clashes between government security forces and protesters

The risk of protest can increase around anniversaries of significant events in Bahrain and can start with little warning. Locations of past protests include:

  • Sitra
  • Bani Jamra
  • Karbabad
  • Saar
  • Karzakan
  • Budaiya Highway and surrounding villages
  • Diraz
  • Sanabis
  • Al Dair
  • Adliya
  • Nuwaidrait

Public gatherings in roads or public squares are temporarily banned to protect public safety. Leave the area if you see a large public gathering, demonstration or protest. You should:

  • remain vigilant
  • follow the advice of the local authorities
  • be aware of your surroundings
  • familiarise yourself with other routes in case you are diverted

If you see a suspect item, move away and call the police on 999 or the Police Hotline 8000 8008.

Travel on the main routes during daylight hours is generally orderly. There can be a police presence or checkpoints on major roads.

Political developments in the wider region have an impact on local public opinion and actions. Be aware of local sensitivities, follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which could lead to public disturbances.

Crime

Crime is low in most areas, but you should take normal precautions to protect your belongings. For personal safety, only use reputable taxi companies.

Laws and cultural differences

Bahrain is a liberal country compared to others in the region, but there are still conservative social views.

You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions and make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during Ramadan and other religious festivals. Bahrainis observe some religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in other Gulf countries.

Security sites and incidents

Filming, photography, publishing or redistributing photos or videos of security and military sites, operations or incidents is prohibited. This includes the promotion of unverified or fabricated content pertaining to events, attacks or acts of aggression against Bahrain. Violation of this prohibition risks arrest and prosecution.

Social media

Respect the local culture and public security rules when using social media. It could amount to a crime if you…

American passport — U.S. Department of State

In brief
  • The U.S. State Department ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families to leave Bahrain on March 2, 2026, due to safety risks. State Department
  • Armed conflict between the United States and Iran began on February 28, creating ongoing threats of drone and missile attacks and significant commercial flight disruptions in Bahrain. State Department
  • Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Bahrain targeting tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, religious sites, and government facilities with little or no warning. State Department
  • The Federal Aviation Administration issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation and Notice to Airmen due to risks to civil aviation operating within or near Bahrain. State Department
  • U.S. citizens in Bahrain should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive embassy updates and develop an emergency communication plan with family or employer. State Department

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Bahrain - Level 3: Reconsider Travel 2026-08-26travel.state.gov ↗updated 26.08.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Advisory summary

Reconsider travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict .

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel to Bahrain. Only family members 18 years of age or older may join U.S. government employees who work in Bahrain.

Armed Conflict

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, 2026, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

Terrorism

There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Bahrain. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and religious sites as well as government and military facilities.

Aviation Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an ongoing Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Bahrain. For more information Americans should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Global Affairs Canada — additional reading

Avoid non-essential travel

BAHRAIN - AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL

Avoid non-essential travel to Bahrain due to the volatile security situation in the region.

  • BAHRAIN — Avoid non-essential travel to Bahrain due to the volatile security situation in the region.

Open Government Licence – Canada · October 14, 2026 07:57 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

In brief
  • You must carry photo identification at all times, as failure to produce it when asked is an offence and may result in a fine.
  • Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs carries severe penalties, including lengthy jail sentences, heavy fines, and potentially the death penalty.
  • During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset is prohibited and could be considered a crime.
  • Taking photographs of government or military installations, industrial sites, or strategic infrastructure is forbidden without authorization.
  • Extramarital relations and homosexual acts are illegal and punishable under Bahraini law.
  • You must dress conservatively in public places, avoiding transparent clothing or exposing shoulders and knees as a woman.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Global Affairs Canada — written for Canadian travellers, valid for all

Local laws

You must abide by local laws. Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences, heavy fines, as well as the death penalty. The possession of even a very small amount of drugs can result in arrest and, if convicted, a four-year minimum prison term. Alcohol is available for purchase by non-Muslims at special stores. However, Bahraini attitudes regarding alcohol are not favourable. Observe restrictions concerning the consumption of alcohol. Excessive drinking while in transit through a Bahraini airport could lead to detention and a fine. Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Bahraini law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, the Bahraini government does not recognize same-sex marriage, and homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. 2SLGBTQI+ persons could face arrest under other charges, such as morality or public decency laws. 2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Bahrain. Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Identification

You must carry photo identification. Under Bahraini law, failure to produce photo identification to an authority when asked is considered an offence and you may be fined. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated.

Drones

The importation, possession, and use of drones, including aerial photography and videography, are strictly regulated in Bahrain. You must obtain authorization before importing or operating a drone. Failure to comply with drone regulations may result in severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and confiscation of the equipment. Drone regulations – Government of Bahrain

Photography

Do not take photographs of buildings or individuals without prior authorization.

Marriage

Common-law unions are tolerated but not recognized. Extramarital relations are illegal.

Customs

Bahraini customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning the temporary import or export of certain items, including firearms, ammunition and other weapons, seditious literature and habit-forming drugs.

Legal process

If you are involved in Bahraini court proceedings due to indebtedness, labour disagreement or other legal dispute, you may be prevented from leaving the country until your case is resolved.

Dress and behaviour

Bahrain’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. The work week is from Sunday to Thursday. Religious proselytizing is not permitted. You may be subject to heavy fines if you show disrespect toward officials by making verbal insults and obscene gestures.

  • Avoid physical contact, such as holding hands with another adult, in public
  • Dress conservatively
  • Behave discreetly
  • Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. For example, women should cover their arms and legs, and men should not wear shorts in public
Ramadan

In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7. In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

  • drinking
  • eating
  • smoking
Pornography

Possession of pornographic material is forbidden.

Family law

Child custody decisions are based on Islamic law. It is extremely difficult for a Canadian woman, even if she is Muslim, to obtain custody of her children through a Bahraini court decision. Regardless of their parents’ marital status, minor children of a Bahraini father may not leave Bahrain without their father’s permission.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Bahrain. If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Bahrain by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Bahrain to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies. Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Open Government Licence – Canada · October 14, 2026 07:57 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Foreign Office — laws and cultural differences

Local laws

Bahrain is a liberal country compared to others in the region, but there are still conservative social views. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions and make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during Ramadan and other religious festivals. Bahrainis observe some religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in other Gulf countries.

Security sites and incidents

Filming, photography, publishing or redistributing photos or videos of security and military sites, operations or incidents is prohibited. This includes the promotion of unverified or fabricated content pertaining to events, attacks or acts of aggression against Bahrain. Violation of this prohibition risks arrest and prosecution.

Social media

Respect the local culture and public security rules when using social media. It could amount to a crime if you post online any message, video or photograph, that:

  • is critical of the Bahrain government or monarchy
  • appears to abuse, ridicule or criticise the country
  • is culturally insensitive
Personal ID

You must carry photo ID such as a passport by law. You could be fined by the Bahraini authorities if you cannot show photo ID if asked.

Dress code

Dress conservatively in public places, particularly religious sites. Bahrainis often dress conservatively in traditional dress. You could cause offence if you dress inappropriately or not in accordance with Islamic values. Dress appropriately and modestly in public places, such as malls, restaurants, and parks. Clothing should not:

  • be transparent
  • expose shoulders or knees if you are a woman
  • display offensive pictures or slogans

Nudity is strictly forbidden, including topless sunbathing. These rules are even more closely observed during Ramadan when modesty is promoted.

Respect for religion

Islamic religious values are respected in Bahrain. Any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and may lead to a heavy fine or a prison sentence. Muslims pray 5 times a day. Drivers may stop in lay-bys to pray. Other religions are respected in Bahrain and can be followed with freedom.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:

  • eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
  • play loud music or dance
  • swear in public

These actions could amount to a crime under Bahraini law. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts. You should also:

  • check opening hours of shops and restaurants
  • be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
  • follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
  • be aware that driving may be unpredictable, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
  • be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
  • be patient and show tolerance
Public offences

Offensive language, spitting and aggressive behaviour (including ‘road rage’ hand gestures) are seen as seriously offensive and can result in a prison sentence and deportation.

Open Government Licence v3.0gov.uk ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

FDFA (Switzerland) — laws and customs, in French

Specific legal provisions

Le cadre juridique s'inspire d’une conception du droit islamique stricte. Les infractions sont systématiquement poursuivies et punies plus durement qu’en Suisse. Sont notamment punissables:

  • l'alcool au volant (taux maximum d'alcoolémie toléré: 0 pour mille);
  • durant le Ramadan: manger, boire ou fumer en public (même dans sa propre voiture) durant la journée;
  • l'outrage et les critiques à l'encontre des autorités politiques et religieuses du Bahreïn. Il est également interdit d’exprimer des propos injurieux à l’égard de pays amis du Bahreïn. De manière générale, évitez de vous engager dans des discussions politiques et religieuses ou d’exprimer des critiques, également sur les réseaux sociaux;
  • tout comportement provocant en public;
  • les relations extraconjugales et les actes à caractère homosexuel;
  • La photographie des installations gouvernementales et militaires, des sites industriels (par exemple, les champs pétrolifères et les raffineries), ainsi que des infrastructures stratégiques comme les aéroports, est interdite. Étant donné qu'il existe des incertitudes quant à la définition exacte de ces catégories, il est recommandé, en cas de doute, de demander l'autorisation aux forces de sécurité locales ou de renoncer à prendre des photos.

De nombreux produits sont soumis à des restrictions ou interdictions d’importation. Cela vaut également pour les médicaments . Conformez-vous aux consignes des autorités douanières du Bahreïn. Ministry of Interior, Customs Affairs Les infractions à la loi sur les stupéfiants, y compris la détention de minimes quantités de drogue quelle qu'elle soit, sont passibles de lourdes peines de prison; la peine de mort peut être prononcée. La peine de mort peut être prononcée pour des infractions graves liées à la drogue, pour les meurtres et certains autres délits. Les conditions de détention sont précaires: mauvaises conditions d'hygiène et insuffisance des soins médicaux etc. En cas de doute, une personne au volant impliquée dans un accident de la route ayant fait des victimes ne sera, pas autorisée à quitter le pays pendant l'enquête/l'instruction, Il arrive aussi, en cas de litige financier, que la police empêche une personne de nationalité étrangère de quitter le pays jusqu'à ce que l'affaire soit réglée.

Cultural specificities

Il est recommandé d'adapter son comportement et sa tenue vestimentaire aux us et coutumes locaux ainsi qu'aux sensibilités religieuses et nationales. Renseignez-vous dans les guides de voyages, auprès de votre agence ou directement sur place, sur les codes de conduite et les conventions à respecter. Songez également aux règles et prescriptions particulières à observer durant la période du Ramadan.

FDFA travel advice, in Frencheda.admin.ch ↗updated 24.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Air: Poor 63/100PM2.5 56.8 µg/m³ · PM10 97.8 µg/m³
UV high today max 6.4Right now 2.0 · WHO scale 0–11+

What it changes for you: Poor air: asthma, COPD, allergies — bring your prescription and regular treatment, limit outdoor exertion; persistent breathing trouble goes to a doctor, or to the 24/7 number. High UV at midday: sun protection.

Reading 08:00 (Asia/Bahrain)Open-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Air quality and UV: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information 2026. Neither the European Commission nor ECMWF is responsible for any use that may be made of the Copernicus information or data it contains.

Physicians per 1,000 people
Bahrain0.7 2020
Switzerland4.5 2022
France3.3 2022
Hospital beds per 1,000 people
Bahrain1.8 2022
Switzerland4.4 2023
France5.7 2022
Health spending per person (USD)
Bahrain1,176 2023
Switzerland11,784 2023
France5,327 2024
Life expectancy (years)
Bahrain81.4 2024
Switzerland84.4 2024
France83.0 2024

Reading: With 0.7 physicians per 1,000 people (84% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 1,176 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.

World Bank — latest published value, year per indicatordata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

I travel on a passportVisa, passport validity, entry form: the rules depend on your passport. Each government describes them for its own nationals.

French passport — France Diplomatie

In brief
  • French nationals need a passport valid for at least six months beyond entry. Visas are obtained at Bahrain airport (15 days for 5 BHD or 30 days for 12 BHD) or online beforehand via e-visa. Maximum stay is 90 consecutive days. France Diplomatie
  • Bahrain ended entry restrictions on 20 February 2022, but some airlines may still require negative PCR tests; check with your carrier. Install the BeAwareBahrain app before departure to register European vaccination certificates. France Diplomatie
  • Mask-wearing ceased to be mandatory from 29 March 2022 in public places and outdoors. France Diplomatie
  • Journalists require accreditation from Bahrain's Information Regulation Authority obtained well in advance before departure; entry may be denied without it. France Diplomatie
  • Luggage searches are routine at Bahrain's borders. Illicit items result in fines, arrest, and potential imprisonment. France Diplomatie

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Bahreïn

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-

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Mesures liées à la Covid-19

Les autorités bahreïniennes ont mis fin, depuis le 20 février 2022, aux restrictions d’entrée sur le territoire bahreïnien. Il se peut toutefois que certaines compagnies aériennes maintiennent encore l’exigence de présentation d’un test PCR négatif pour pouvoir embarquer. Il convient donc de se renseigner en amont auprès de la compagnie. Il est recommandé d’installer l’application « BeAwareBahrain » avant son départ, afin d’y faire reconnaître ses certificats de vaccination européens. Depuis le 29 mars 2022, le port du masque n’est plus obligatoire, ni dans les lieux publics, ni à l’extérieur.

Conditions d’entrée et de séjour

Les Français se rendant au Bahreïn doivent être en possession d’un passeport dont la validité dépasse de six mois la date de l’entrée dans le pays.

L’ambassade de Bahreïn à Paris ne délivre pas de visa.

Le séjour est soumis à la délivrance d’un visa qui peut être obtenu directement à l’arrivée à l’aéroport.

Deux durées de séjour sont proposées au choix du voyageur et contre paiement par carte bancaire :

  • 15 jours, au tarif de 5 BHD ;
  • 30 jours, au tarif de 12 BHD.

Le visa initial peut être prolongé à raison de 2 séjours supplémentaires de 30 jours chacun. La durée maximale de séjour à Bahreïn est ainsi fixée à 90 jours consécutifs, délai au-delà duquel il est obligatoire de quitter le territoire. La prolongation du visa reste à l’appréciation de l’autorité bahreïnienne.

Il est également possible d’obtenir un visa préalablement au voyage (e-visa), sur le site internet du ministère bahreïnien de l’Intérieur .

L’autorité bahreïnienne reste seule décisionnaire et peut refuser l’accès au territoire à tout voyageur et pour tout motif. Le voyageur se doit alors de repartir dans les meilleurs délais.

Conditions d’entrée des journalistes et des représentants d’ONG :

  • Journalistes : la venue de journalistes étrangers à Bahreïn, à des fins professionnelles, est subordonnée à l’obtention d’une accréditation qui doit être sollicitée suffisamment à l’avance auprès de l’Autorité de régulation de l’information. La demande doit être formulée directement auprès des autorités bahreïniennes avant le départ (voir formulaire également téléchargeable via le site Internet de l’ambassade de France à la rubrique « Venir à Bahreïn/Accréditation des journalistes français » ). Faute d’accréditation, l’entrée sur le territoire peut ne pas être accordée.
  • Représentants d’ONG :…
Réglementation douanière

Les bagages des voyageurs arrivant ou en transit à Bahreïn peuvent être fouillés. En cas de découverte de produits illicites, les contrevenants s’exposent à une amende, voire à une arrestation pouvant donner lieu ensuite à une peine de prison ferme.

Entry and stay pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland)

The FDFA does not publish entry requirements: they are set out by the destination's embassy or consulate in Switzerland — check them before booking, passport in hand. As a guide, the French and British requirements below describe the same rules as seen by two other governments.eda.admin.ch ↗updated 24.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

British passport — Foreign Office (UK)

In brief
  • Your British passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in Bahrain. Foreign Office
  • You must obtain a visa before or upon arrival in Bahrain; visas are automatically issued for two weeks, with longer stays up to six months available. Foreign Office
  • Overstaying your visa may result in penalties, legal issues, and cancellation of any work visa you hold. Foreign Office
  • You may be prevented from leaving Bahrain if subject to a travel ban, involved in legal proceedings, have unpaid debt, or are a child in a custody dispute; check with the Bahrain Immigration Department beforehand. Foreign Office

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Entry requirements — rules for a British passportForeign Office ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Entry requirements — rules for a British passport

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Bahrain’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Bahrain set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bahrain Embassy in the UK .

Passport validity requirements

To enter Bahrain, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement . See Dual citizenship .

Bahraini-UK dual nationals

Dual nationality is generally not permitted under Bahraini law, unless formally agreed. If you hold both British and Bahraini nationalities, you will be considered a Bahraini national under local law during your stay in Bahrain. You should contact Bahrain’s Nationality, Passports and Residency Affairs (NPRA) to request approval of your dual citizenship status.

If you are a dual Bahraini-UK national the authorities may require you to enter and exit Bahrain on a Bahrain travel document only. If your Bahraini passport is not valid or in your possession, seek advice from your nearest Bahraini Embassy before you travel to Bahrain. Bahraini passport renewals whilst in Bahrain may take a long time and could potentially disrupt your travel plans. Decisions related to entering and exiting Bahrain are always made by the Bahraini authorities. See who the FCDO can support abroad .

If you are not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bahrain Embassy in the UK or the (NPRA) .

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Bahrain.

Applying for a visa

You can get a visa:

  • in advance online
  • in advance from the Bahrain Embassy in the UK
  • on arrival

Visas are automatically issued for a 2-week period, but visit visas for stays of up to 6 months are also available. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply.

You cannot start employment in Bahrain if you enter on a visit visa.

If you overstay your visa, there could be penalties, legal issues and your work visa could be cancelled.

Extending visas

You can apply to renew your visa at the Nationality, Passports and Residential Affairs department at the Ministry of Interior.

Applying for residency

You can apply for residency through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) .

You can be fined if you overstay your legal residency.

Travel bans

You may be prevented from leaving Bahrain if you:

  • are subject to a travel ban
  • are involved in legal proceedings
  • have unpaid debt
  • are a child subject to a custody dispute

If you’re involved in a dispute, including civil and criminal disputes or immigration violation, you may be stopped from leaving the country. The travel ban will not be…

American passport — U.S. Department of State

The State Department publishes the requirements ("Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements") on its country page, which our servers cannot read. Read it before you go; as a guide, the French and British requirements below describe the same rules as seen by two other governments.travel.state.gov ↗updated 26.08.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Living on site

For each risk, the official texts themselves: what is happening, then, where they say so, what to do.

CrimeHIGH

What the texts say · Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs.

What they advise: Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Foreign Office · Global Affairs Canada
TransportMODERATE

What the texts say · Road conditions are very good throughout the country. Drivers, however, are often aggressive. Use only officially marked taxis.

What they advise:
  • Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged.
  • In the event of an accident resulting in injuries, do not move your vehicle until a report has been filed, even if the vehicle impedes traffic.
Global Affairs Canada
Nature and climateMODERATE

What the texts say · Humidity and heat may be most severe during the hot season, from April to October. Sand storms and dust storms may occur any time, particularly during the summer months.

What they advise: Monitor local news and weather reports.
Global Affairs Canada
Laws and customsTO KNOW

What the texts say · You must carry photo identification. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.

What they advise:
  • Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated.
  • Dress conservatively in public places, particularly religious sites.
Global Affairs Canada · Foreign Office
Crowds and calendarMODERATE

What the texts say · Demonstrations and protests take place. The risk of protest can increase around anniversaries of significant events in Bahrain and can start with little warning.

What they advise:
  • You should leave the area if you see a large public gathering or demonstration.
  • In the event of a protest: remain vigilant.
Foreign Office

Sentences copied word for word from the official texts cited, chosen for the destination; the level is our reading. The full texts, at each source:Foreign Office ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026 (updated 08.10.2026 · read 28.09.2026)Global Affairs Canada ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026 (updated 14.10.2026 · read 28.09.2026)

Safety in figures
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people
Bahrain0.2 2022
Switzerland0.6 2023
France1.3 2023
Road traffic deaths per 100,000 people
Bahrain5.2 2019
Switzerland2.2 2019
France5.1 2019

Reading: The homicide rate is in the same range as Switzerland or France. On the road, 2 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

—:—Local time · Asia/Bahrain ·
999Local emergency numbers · Single number 999 · Police 112 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 112
BS 1363230 V
Drivingon the right

Time zone: IANA and timezone-boundary-builder (ODbL) · RESTCountries · EmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · European Central Bank

Places: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), Photon search by komoot.

FDFA (Switzerland) — transport and specific advice, in French

Transport and infrastructure

Les excès de vitesse et les fréquentes infractions au code de la route augmentent considérablement les risques d'accident sur les routes du Bahreïn. En cas d'accident de la circulation, il faut éviter de déplacer les véhicules jusqu'à l'arrivée de la police, car cela peut être interprété comme une reconnaissance de culpabilité.

Specific remarks

Le Bahreïn ne reconnaît pas les passeports provisoires suisses. Les contrôles d'identité sont fréquents. Il est obligatoire de pouvoir vous identifier avec votre passeport à tout moment (ou avec une photocopie y la page comportant le tampon du visa d'entrée).

FDFA travel advice, in Frencheda.admin.ch ↗updated 24.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Public holidaysNager.Date ↗read 24.09.2026

  • Wed 16 Dec — National Day
  • Thu 17 Dec — National Day
ESSENTIAL

Maximum policyholder: before paying anything, call the 24/7 number. If you are admitted for more than 24 h, Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).

+41 22 ••• •• •• — Full number in your client area

The hospitals to know — Manama

The hospital list has not been read from OpenStreetMap for this page yet: the medical-network map loads it when opened. Maximum's assistance directs you to the right facility, 24/7. The medical-network map ↗

38pharmacies26doctorsFull map and list ↗

Before you go

  • Routine vaccinesup to date
  • Yellow feverrequired if arriving from a risk area
  • Hepatitis Arecommended
  • Hepatitis Brecommended
  • Typhoidrecommended
  • Mpoxdepending on the trip

CDC Travelers' Health recommendations, most important first. They depend on your age, vaccines and itinerary: confirm them with a doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Details, disease by disease ↗cdc.gov ↗read 10.10.2026

On site

SunUV high (6): hat, sunscreen, water.
MedicationIn their box, with the prescription — in English if possible.

The health system — With 0.7 physicians per 1,000 people (84% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 1,176 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.

Back home — a fever in the following weeks should be told to a doctor, naming the country.

The next 7 days Asia/BahrainMET Norway ↗read 16.10.2026

Fri 16 Oct31–36°partly cloudy
Sat 17 Oct30–38°clear
Sun 18 Oct30–36°clear
Mon 19 Oct29–36°clear
Tue 20 Oct28–34°clear
Wed 21 Oct29–34°mainly clear
Thu 22 Oct29–34°mainly clear

Forecast: MET Norway (Norwegian Meteorological Institute, CC BY 4.0), grouped by day and formatted by Maximum.

I travel on a passportYour embassy, and the service to register with, depend on your passport.

Your country, 24/7, from abroad

FR
Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs+33 1 53 59 11 0024/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.www.diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
CH
FDFA Helpline+41 58 465 33 33+41 800 24 7 36524/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.www.eda.admin.ch ↗updated 24.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026
GB
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office+44 20 7008 500024 hours, for British nationals.www.gov.uk ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026
US
Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State+1 202 501 4444+1 888 407 4747From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.travel.state.gov ↗updated 26.08.2026 · read 16.10.2026

French passport — French embassy and consulates

FR
Ambassade de Franceembassy · nearest · 1.6 km

+33 1 75 79 41 80 · France Diplomatie

FR
Ambassade de Franceembassy · 3.2 km

phone not published

Useful contacts listed by France Diplomatie (in French)diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Updated: 15 September 2026

OpenStreetMap

Swiss passport — Swiss embassy and consulates

Useful addresses — FDFA, in French

Numéro d'urgence général: 999 Représentations suisses à l’étranger: En cas de situation d’urgence à l’étranger, vous pouvez vous adresser à la représentation suisse la plus proche ou à la Helpline DFAE. Ambassade de Suisse aux Emirats arabes unis Helpline DFAE Représentations étrangères en Suisse: Pour obtenir des informations sur les prescriptions d'entrée (documents d'identité admis, visa, etc.), veuillez vous adresser aux ambassades et consulats étrangers compétents. Ceux-ci peuvent également vous renseigner sur les dispositions douanières pour l'importation et l'exportation d'animaux et de marchandises: appareils électroniques, souvenirs, médicaments, etc. Représentations étrangères en Suisse Bahrain e-Visas

OpenStreetMap · DFAE

American passport — U.S. embassy and consulates

US
Ambassade des États-Unisembassy · nearest · 3.0 km

المنامة

phone not published

OpenStreetMap

Police

  • Umm Al Hassam Police Station · 2.9 km
  • Muharraq Public Security Headquarters · 4.0 km
  • Exhibition Police Station · 4.2 km
  • Hidd Police Station · 7.1 km

OpenStreetMap

Getting help — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 08.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Getting help — Foreign Office

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Bahrain

Telephone: 999 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call  FCDO  in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Ten phrases in Arabic

For emergencies. If pronunciation fails, show the screen — or the printed page.

Help!النجدة!an-najda!
Call an ambulance!اتصلوا بالإسعاف!ittasilu bil-is'af!
I need a doctor.أحتاج إلى طبيب.ahtaju ila tabib.
Where is the nearest hospital?أين أقرب مستشفى؟ayna aqrab mustashfa?
Call the police!اتصلوا بالشرطة!ittasilu bish-shurta!
I am allergic to penicillin.عندي حساسية من البنسلين.'indi hassasiyya min al-binisilin.
I have international medical insurance.لدي تأمين طبي دولي.ladayya ta'min tibbi dawli.
I want to contact my embassy.أريد الاتصال بسفارتي.urid al-ittisal bi-safarati.
Please take me to this address.خذني إلى هذا العنوان من فضلك.khudhni ila hadha al-'unwan min fadlak.
Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟hal tatakallam al-injiliziya?

Translations by Maximum Insurance, original script and transliteration.

  • Keep the entry stamp, hospital invoices and the medical report. Without them a claim cannot be rebuilt.
  • File it from the claim form, once back, with those papers.

Actions to take before each professional trip abroad.

1Once — the framework
2For each departure
3During the mission, and after

What is happening in Bahrain right now

Live alerts and level changes, each with its official source. Continuously updated.

What governments have just written

LatestSituation sécuritaire

Suite aux frappes iraniennes ayant visé le territoire bahreïnien et compte tenu de la situation régionale, il est déconseillé, sauf raison impérative, aux Français de se rendre au royaume de Bahreïn. Les ressortissants français présents à Bahreïn sont invités à se conformer strictement aux consignes diffusées par les autorités locales, et à se mettre à l’abri en cas d’alerte. En cas de découverte de débris de projectiles, il convient de se tenir à distance des objets, de ne…

France Diplomatie (in French) · posted 17 July 2026diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
UpdateGlobal Affairs Canada

Editorial change

October 14, 2026 07:57 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Level-change history

  • 2 August 2026level 2 → 3/4

⚡ The world feed — every country →

Frequently asked questions — travel insurance Bahrain

24/7 support number — +41 22 ••• •• ••An adviser goes through each question with you until you have an actionable answer: cover, hospital, entry rules, claims. Full number in your client area. You can also ask Maximum directly, just below these questions.
What is the official risk level in Bahrain today?

Level 3/4 — Reconsider Travel, U.S. Department of State, retrieved on 16 October 2026.

  • Is the whole country advised against? United States: except for imperative reasons · France: no · United Kingdom: no · Switzerland: except for imperative reasons (reading of 27 September 2026).
  • Switzerland’s FDFA advises against tourist travel (published 24.07.2026).
  • Contractually, only an FDFA, FOPH or WHO advisory against the trip opens Module A (art. 18.1) — that is not the case today.
  • Read the areas to avoid, inform your company (Duty of Care checklist) and check that your cover has no territorial clause — My cover says it card by card.
  • We check these sources every morning and e-mail you the day one changes (Alerts button).

Sourcestravel.state.gov · updated 26.08 · read 16.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10DFAE · updated 24.07 · read 15.10207-country comparison

Is the whole of Bahrain advised against, or only some areas?

An area advised against does not rule out the country.

  • Official answers: United States: except for imperative reasons · France: no · United Kingdom: no · Switzerland: except for imperative reasons.
  • Keep your country of residence's advisory on booking day and on departure day: that is what your policy's clauses cite.

SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 08.10 · read 15.10State Department · updated 26.08 · read 16.10

What are the entry requirements for Bahrain with my passport?

The rules depend on the passport, not on the destination alone.

  • French passport (France Diplomatie): French nationals need a passport valid for at least six months beyond entry. Visas are obtained at Bahrain airport (15 days for 5 BHD or 30 days for 12 BHD) or online beforehand via e-visa. Maximum stay is 90 consecutive days. Bahrain ended entry restrictions on 20 February 2022, but some airlines may still require negative PCR tests; check with your carrier. Install the BeAwareBahrain app before departure to register European vaccination certificates. Mask-wearing ceased to be mandatory from 29 March 2022 in public places and outdoors.
  • British passport (Foreign Office): Your British passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in Bahrain. You must obtain a visa before or upon arrival in Bahrain; visas are automatically issued for two weeks, with longer stays up to six months available. Overstaying your visa may result in penalties, legal issues, and cancellation of any work visa you hold.
  • American passport: the requirements are on the State Department country page (travel.state.gov).
  • Swiss passport: the FDFA refers you to the destination's embassy in Switzerland.
  • Pick your passport at the top of Before you go › Entry: the official text that concerns you comes first, with its “In brief” summary.

SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 08.10 · read 15.10State Department · updated 26.08 · read 16.10

Do I need an insurance certificate for a Bahrain visa?

For a Schengen visa, yes: at least €30,000 of travel medical insurance (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, art. 15).

  • Many other countries ask for it on entry or for a visa, case by case: check Before you go › Entry, with your passport.
  • Subscribe: the named certificate arrives by e-mail on payment, with your name, dates and limits (EUR 1.5M medical expenses, unlimited evacuation and repatriation) — the ones consulates check.
  • Attach it to the visa file; if in doubt about the format, write to us.

SourcesRegulation (EC) 810/2009, art. 15General conditions, policy 20 00 479

What does Maximum Insurance do in Bahrain, concretely?

VIP Pack — €990 for twelve months, unlimited trips.

  • EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses, unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation, search and rescue EUR 50,000, cancellation or change EUR 5,000.
  • One 24/7 number, +41 22 ••• •• ••: Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).
  • Network of 45,000 providers (art. 6.9); evacuation is decided, organised and paid by Maximum's medical team if the local facility is not enough (art. 6.2.2).
  • Named certificate by e-mail on payment, no medical questionnaire.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479OpenStreetMap · read 11.10

What should I do if hospitalised in Bahrain?

Six steps, in this order.

  • 1. Call +41 22 ••• •• •• before paying anything, or have the front desk call: it is the condition for full cover (otherwise: reduced or refused benefits).
  • 2. Ask for a hospital in the Maximum network (art. 6.9).
  • 3. See a doctor the same day and leave with the certificate: without an on-the-spot finding, nothing is covered (art. 33).
  • 4. Admitted for more than 24 h? The front desk calls Maximum: direct payment guarantee, no deposit (art. 2.12).
  • 5. Book no ambulance or flight yourself (art. 6.2.2).
  • 6. Once home, file within 30 days (art. 35.7).
  • Local emergency services: single number 999 · police 112 · ambulance 112 · fire 112.

SourcesSpecial conditions 01.26General conditions, policy 20 00 479

Which emergency numbers in Bahrain?

Local emergency services: single number 999 · police 112 · ambulance 112 · fire 112

  • Maximum, 24/7, before any payment: +41 22 ••• •• ••.
  • France — Ambassade de France (1.6 km) · +33 1 75 79 41 80
  • United States — Ambassade des États-Unis (3.0 km)
  • Save these numbers before leaving; in immediate danger, call local emergency services first, then Maximum.

SourcesEmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · read 08.10OpenStreetMap · read 11.10

Is an Amex, Visa or Mastercard enough in Bahrain?

At today's level 3/4, card by card:

  • Amex Platinum — No area exclusion at this level — but three written limits: deductible and prior approval, 90-day cap, advance under conditions.
  • Visa — No express area exclusion — but a €156,000 cap, 90 days, and the war/instability exclusion in the background.
  • Mastercard — No exclusion in play at this level — but a €155,000 cap and 90 covered days.
  • Three lines to read in your notice: the duration (often 90 days per trip), the settlement (reimbursement afterwards or direct payment of the hospital) and the area exclusion at level 4/4.

SourcesAmex Platinum France T&Cs, 01.2025 — general exclusion n° 11BNP Paribas Visa Infinite notice (policy PT7), 04.2025 — comFortuneo World Elite Mastercard notice, 01.2026 — art. 5.5 '

Are a health plan or a travel policy enough in Bahrain?

A health plan reimburses at home; here, the hospital asks for a payment guarantee before admission.

  • Health plan — A health plan treats you at home. Here the hospital asks for a guarantee before admission — not a later reimbursement.
  • Travel policy — No area exclusion at this level — compare cap, deductible and covered duration.
  • A travel policy often has a territorial clause at level 4/4 and a 90-day limit per trip.
  • Have your IPID number or the PDF of the terms and ask an expert to call you back: the answer is in the document, not in the brochure.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

How do I use the medical network on this page?

The page reads hospitals, pharmacies and doctors from OpenStreetMap, around the point you choose.

  • Type your city, hotel or beach: the map re-centres, 24/7 emergency rooms come first.
  • Each row gives the phone when the source publishes it, the nearest street, directions and the Google Maps listing.
  • The PDF briefing repeats the same places, numbered on a printable map.
  • No customer reviews: OpenStreetMap has none, and we invent none.

SourcesOpenStreetMap (ODbL) · read 11.10

Which vaccines and health precautions for Bahrain?

The sourced detail is under Medical network › Health: vaccines, diseases present, altitude, outbreaks.

  • CDC (Travelers' Health), depending on the trip: Routine vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Monkeypox, Rabies.
  • See a doctor or a travel clinic 8 weeks before departure (Foreign Office).
  • Carry your medicines in their packaging, with a prescription using international non-proprietary names (France Diplomatie).

SourcesCDC Travelers' Health · read 10.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10OMS · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 08.10 · read 15.10

Can I be treated in Bahrain, or will I be evacuated?

0.7 physicians per 1,000 people (2020) versus 4.5 in Switzerland.

  • 1.8 hospital beds per 1,000 people versus 4.4 in Switzerland (World Bank).
  • With 0.7 physicians per 1,000 people (84% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 1,176 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.
  • When the local facility is not enough, Maximum's medical team decides the evacuation to a suitable centre, and pays for it (art. 6.2.2).

SourcesWorld Bank · read 10.10General conditions, policy 20 00 479

Bahrain: safety, in figures?

0.2 homicides per 100,000 people (2022) versus 0.6 in Switzerland and 1.3 in France.

  • 5.2 road deaths per 100,000 people versus 2.2 in Switzerland (World Bank, WHO).
  • UCDP (Uppsala University): 1 geolocated violent incidents, 1 deaths over the last closed period, each placed on the map.
  • The homicide rate is in the same range as Switzerland or France. On the road, 2 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

SourcesWorld Bank (UNODC, WHO) · read 10.10UCDP

Where is my embassy in Bahrain, and why register?

The nearest representations, by passport (OpenStreetMap):

  • France — Ambassade de France (1.6 km) · +33 1 75 79 41 80
  • United States — Ambassade des États-Unis (3.0 km)
  • Register before leaving: France: Ariane · Switzerland: Travel Admin · United Kingdom: Foreign Office alerts · United States: STEP.
  • Two minutes, and in a crisis your country's authorities can reach you and count you in an evacuation.
  • Pick your passport at the top of Contacts: your embassy comes first.

SourcesOpenStreetMap · read 11.10DFAE · updated 24.07 · read 15.10

Which regions of Bahrain should I avoid, precisely?

At least one official reading covers the whole country; no region is singled out.

  • Your point (Capital): advised against — all but essential travel.
  • Global Affairs Canada covers the whole country.
  • Maximum does not exclude these areas: the VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there (sanctions, embargoes and a country already at war at departure remain enforceable).

SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 14.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 08.10 · read 15.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10

Which laws and customs should I know in Bahrain?

Local laws apply to every traveller; here is what the official texts say.

  • You must carry photo identification at all times, as failure to produce it when asked is an offence and may result in a fine.
  • Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs carries severe penalties, including lengthy jail sentences, heavy fines, and potentially the death penalty.
  • During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset is prohibited and could be considered a crime.
  • Taking photographs of government or military installations, industrial sites, or strategic infrastructure is forbidden without authorization.
  • Extramarital relations and homosexual acts are illegal and punishable under Bahraini law.

SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 14.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 08.10 · read 15.10

Who can I call at any hour from Bahrain?

Every foreign ministry runs a 24/7 emergency line for its nationals.

  • France — Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: +33 1 53 59 11 00. 24/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.
  • Switzerland — FDFA Helpline: +41 58 465 33 33 · +41 800 24 7 365. 24/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.
  • United Kingdom — Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office: +44 20 7008 5000. 24 hours, for British nationals.
  • United States — Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State: +1 202 501 4444 · +1 888 407 4747. From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.
  • On site, Ambassade de France: +33 1 75 79 41 80.

Sourcesdiplomatie.gouv.fr · updated 15.09 · read 15.10eda.admin.ch · updated 24.07 · read 15.10

A few useful phrases in Arabic for Bahrain?

Emergency phrases, transliterated; the original script, to show if pronunciation fails, is under Useful phrases.

  • Help! → an-najda!
  • Call an ambulance! → ittasilu bil-is'af!
  • I need a doctor. → ahtaju ila tabib.
  • Where is the nearest hospital? → ayna aqrab mustashfa?
  • Call the police! → ittasilu bish-shurta!

SourcesMaximum Insurance

What should I keep after leaving Bahrain, and how do I file a claim?

Keep the entry stamp, the invoices, the prescriptions and the medical report.

  • File within 30 days (art. 35.7) from your client area, with the documents; the official forms are pre-filled.
  • Costs advanced on site are reimbursed against receipts.
  • Fever, persistent diarrhoea or a rash in the following weeks? See a doctor and say where you have been.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

What does the Pack VIP Extreme add?

Cancellation or change up to EUR 20,000, special risk EUR 5,000 per person, crisis management and security, optional Kidnap & Ransom.

  • Special risk (Module A): political event, attack, epidemic, natural disaster — opens when the FDFA, the FOPH or WHO advise against the trip (art. 18.1).
  • Epidemic: assistance must be requested within 7 days of the WHO or FDFA qualification (art. 36.2).
  • Crisis management and security: trip registration, monitoring, extraction, evacuation in case of riot, war, terrorism or disaster; Kidnap & Ransom subject to eligibility (art. 18.4).
  • €2,290 a year, unlimited trips.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

A question not answered here? Ask Maximum below, or call the support number: every question gets a clear, actionable answer.

A question? Maximum answers.Answers built from the Bahrain file and your policy.

In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: +41 22 ••• •• •• — 24/7 support number, an adviser stays with you to the end.

What Maximum knows

The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.

Same advisory level: Venezuela · United Arab Emirates · Ethiopia · Saudi Arabia · Azerbaijan · Burundi

Cross-check with official sources
U.S. State Department → UK FCDO → France Diplomatie → DFAE (Suisse) →

The displayed level comes from the State Department, checked every morning. Before departure, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.

The level shown is the official U.S. Department of State level, checked daily. Maximum Insurance is an insurance distributor — general information, not personal advice.

Travel covered to Bahrain
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The destination is already Manama. A few choices, then the reading of your cover, here.

Go further
Insured in an advised-against country →What a repatriation really costs →Who pays the hospital abroad →Where the United States, France and the United Kingdom disagree →What is duty of care? →An employee is hospitalised abroad: the sequence, seen from the company →

All 13 files, together → · All 207 countries →