How to Get to Manama. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Bahrain International Airport (BIA), IATA Code BAH, serves Manama. It sits on Muharraq Island, 7 km to the northeast of Manama city center. A causeway connects Muharraq Island to Bahrain Island, making the journey to the city quick and easy.

Airlines and Routes

Gulf Air, Bahrain's national carrier, flies across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
Other major airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ba, and Lufthansa, also serve BIA.
Typical routes connect Manama to major hubs like Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, London, Frankfurt, Cairo, and various cities across the Indian subcontinent.

Flight Availability & Airport Facilities

Flight prices are higher during peak season (winter holidays, Bahrain Grand Prix) and lower in scorching summer months. Flight availability remains good year-round, though some routes might see reduced frequency during low season. BIA is a modern airport.

Airport Services & Transfers

Airport Facilities: Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental desks. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Taxis: Readily available outside arrivals. Authorized airport cabs use meters. A ride to central Manama is BD 7-10.
Ride-sharing Apps: Careem and Uber operate from BIA, booking via apps.
Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary or paid airport shuttles.

Flight Deals

Find affordable flights using services like Dollar Flight Club.

Flight Search

Compare prices and routes with tools like Skyscanner.

Car Rentals

For exploring beyond Manama, consider DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Border Crossing to Saudi Arabia

The King Fahd Causeway connects Bahrain to Ksa. It is a major, busy land border.
You must have a valid visa for both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia (as needed for your nationality) to cross.
Traffic on the causeway can be very heavy, especially on weekends and public holidays. Expect potential delays.
Cross by private car, taxi, or bus. Public bus services operate between Manama and Saudi cities like Al Khobar and Dammam.

Self-Driving & Train Connections

Self-Driving: A valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are needed. Minimum driving age is 18.
Road Conditions: Roads in Manama and major highways are generally well-maintained.
Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. There are strict speed limits. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.
Train Services: Bahrain has no train services, for either intercity or international routes.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Port

Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP) is Bahrain's main commercial port and a stop for international cruise liners. It handles most arrivals by boat for cruise passengers.

Ferry Services

Bahrain has no regular passenger ferry services connecting it to other countries. Limited boat services exist for certain excursions or transfers to small islands.

River Transportation

Bahrain is an island nation without major rivers. Therefore, river transportation options do not exist for public use.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure to make for a smooth exit from Manama.

Steps

Airport Arrival: Arrive at Bahrain International Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.
Check-in: Proceed to your airline counter or use self-service kiosks.
Security and Immigration: After check-in, move through security screening, then clear immigration before your departure gate.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Bahrain International The airport provides many facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities

Duty-free shopping: A range of global and domestic products.
Dining options: Variety of restaurants and cafes.
Lounges: Airline-specific and pay-per-use options.

Passport Validity for Departure

A critical detail for your departure.

Important Check

Passport Validity: Your passport needs validity for at least six months beyond your departure date, even for your outbound journey.
Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes are typically added to departing air passengers beyond what is already included in your airfare. Your ticket price usually covers all required fees.
Connectivity: Currency exchange services, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi are present throughout the terminal.

Immigration Procedures at Seaports

For cruise passengers arriving by sea.

Cruise Traveler Information

Immigration Clearance: Cruise passengers undergo immigration clearance upon disembarkation at Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Requirements: Similar to air travel, a a current passport and any necessary visas are needed.
Land Connections: Taxis are available from Khalifa Bin Salman Port to Manama city center (20-30 min drive). Cruise lines often arrange shuttle buses.

Important Travel Alerts

Always check the latest travel advisories from your government before your trip.
Ensure all required documents (passport, visa, tickets) are contemporary and accessible.
Allow extra time for airport procedures, especially during peak travel periods.

Keep a small amount of local currency for immediate needs upon arrival.
Have emergency contact numbers stored in your phone and on a physical list.
Be aware of the location of your nearest embassy or consulate.

General Tips for Travel

Staying Hydrated and Safe

Given Manama's climate, staying hydrated and protected from the sun is very important.

Health Reminders

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Use high-SPF sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when outdoors.
Schedule outdoor activities during the colder parts of the day: early morning or late afternoon/evening.

Cultural Courtesy

Cultural Notes

Greetings: A polite greeting and a smile are always appreciated.
Photography: Always get consent before taking pictures of people, especially women.
Public Conduct: Avoid loud behavior or public displays of affection.

Language Basics

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in business and the travel industry settings. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases is a nice gesture.

Local Hospitality

Bahrainis are known for their warmth and hospitality. Embrace opportunities for cultural exchange and interaction with locals.

Weekend Schedule

The official weekend in Bahrain is Friday and Saturday. Many businesses operate on different hours compared to Western norms.

Emergency and Contacts

Emergency Hotlines

Understand these numbers for immediate assistance.

Dial 999 for all emergencies.

Police: 999
Fire Department: 999
Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 999

Embassy/Consulate Contacts

Keep your country's mission contact details handy.

Assistance Abroad

Your Embassy/Consulate: For lost passports, legal aid, or severe issues.
Maintain a digital and physical copy of your passport and visa.
Share your itinerary and emergency contact info including severalone trusted back home.

Hospitals and Medical Facilities

King Hamad University Hospital

A modern public hospital offering a wide range of medical services.

Salmaniya Medical Complex

The largest public hospital in Bahrain, with comprehensive facilities.

American Mission Hospital

A reputable private hospital known for its long history and quality care.

Final Travel Preps

Consider travel insurance as a safety net for any unforeseen medical or travel disruptions. It offers peace of mind.

How to Get to Manama