Manama Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile and Internet Connections

Bahrain has three mobile providers: Batelco, Zain, and STC. All offer good 4G and 5G island-wide coverage. Local SIM cards are available at Bahrain International Airport or provider stores. Passport required for registration. Prepaid tourist packages exist with data and local calls, an appealing option for visitors.

Language and Postal Services

Arabic is Bahrain's official language. English is widely spoken in business, tourism, and among younger generations.
Signs, menus, and information are often bilingual. Language barriers are uncommon in tourist areas.
Translation applications, such as Google Translate with an offline Arabic pack, prove very helpful for localized interactions. Consider Rosetta Stone for pre-trip learning.

Connectivity Options

Wi-Fi is widely available and generally reliable. Free Wi-Fi is common in most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Public Wi-Fi is also available at Bahrain International Airport. Staying connected for navigation, communication, and research is simple.

Staying Connected

Consider an eSIM for international convenience like Airalo.
A portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi is another option.
Bahrain Post operates postal services nationwide, handling domestic and international mail at main post offices.

Standard Operating Hours

Government offices generally operate Sunday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Private businesses are typically open Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.

Shopping and Dining

Shopping malls are open daily, usually 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends (Thursday and Friday).
Restaurant hours vary, many operating 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM or midnight, some opening earlier for breakfast.
Souqs are generally open 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, closing for afternoon rest, then reopening 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Banking and Financial Access

Banks are open Sunday to Thursday, typically 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with some mall branches having longer hours. ATMs are widely present 24/7 at banks, malls, supermarkets, and petrol stations for cash.

Traveler Services

For flight disruptions, Compensair offers assistance with compensation claims.
Access airport lounges globally with Priority Pass.
ATMs are ubiquitous for cash withdrawals.

Public and Religious Holidays

Islamic Holidays

Eid Al-Fitr (end of Ramadan).
Eid Al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice, typically three days).
Islamic New Year.
Prophet's Birthday.

National Holidays

New Year's Day: January 1.
Labour Day: May 1.
Republic Day: December 16 & 17.
Check official calendars for specific travel dates to note service changes.

Information

Review the official public holiday calendar for your specific travel dates. Some businesses may operate reduced hours or close during these times.

Etiquette & Interactions

Cultural awareness marks a considerate traveler. Observing local customs deepens the trip experience.

Greeting Customs

Shake hands with people of the same gender. A slight nod or hand over heart suits opposite gender or uncertainty. 'Salam Alaikum' is a common Arabic greeting.

Attire Advice

Conservative dress is generally fitting, especially in public and religious sites. Refer to packing guidance for modesty. Swimwear is for hotel pools and exclusive beaches only.

Dining Protocol

Use your right hand for eating or passing food, as the left hand is not customary. Avoid pointing foot soles at others; it shows disrespect.

Respectful Photography

Generally, photography is acceptable.

Permissions and Locations

Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially women.
Do not photograph government buildings, military installations, or areas with restricted access.
Privacy is respected.

Religious Site Visits

Show deep respect at mosques and other holy places.

Dress and Behavior

Remove shoes before entering mosques.
Women must cover heads, shoulders, and knees. Men wear full-length trousers and sleeved shirts.
Maintain silence and exhibit respect during visits. Observe without disruption.

Cultural Awareness & Taboos

Sensitive Topics

Refrain from public displays of affection.
Criticism of the royal family, government, or Islam is highly sensitive.
Alcohol consumption in public (outside licensed venues) is prohibited.

Social Conduct

Do not discuss sensitive political or religious topics with strangers.
For gender considerations, public displays of affection, especially for same-sex couples, are not advisable. Discretion is fitting.
Women generally travel without issue but should dress modestly and note cultural sensitivities. Same-sex sexual activity is technically against the law, though enforcement varies.

Important Cultural Note

During Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, do not openly consume food, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours (sunrise to sunset). This gesture shows respect for those observing.

Accessibility Considerations

Manama shows progress in accessibility, especially in its newer infrastructure.

Mobility Infrastructure

Newer buildings, shopping malls, major hotels, and Bahrain International Airport are generally designed for accessibility.

Features Available

Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are common.
Older areas, like the Manama Souq, may have uneven surfaces, narrow pathways, and steps.
These older areas can present access challenges.

Accessible Sites & Transit

Several attractions welcome visitors having a range of mobility needs.

Attractions and Transport

Bahrain National Museum, Al Fateh Grand Mosque, and Bahrain Fort Museum are generally accessible.
Newer public buses accommodate wheelchairs.
Ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicle choices; check your app for specifics.

Support for Impairments

Specialized services for visually or hearing-impaired travelers are limited.

Communication & Information

Visual Impairments: Specialized services are limited.
Hearing Impairments: Specialized services are limited.
English is widely spoken, aiding communication.

Information Sources

Direct inquiries ensure you have the most precise accessibility information.

Resource Guidance

Contact hotels, attractions, or transport providers directly for specific accessibility features.
Inform hotels and tour operators in advance about any specific accessibility needs.
Prioritize newer, modern venues for better accessibility infrastructure.

Accessibility Queries

For specific accessibility features, contact hotels, attractions, or transport providers directly.

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