Pre-Trip Checklist: Manama

Required Preparations

Systematic planning avoids last-minute pressure.

Key Dates for Planning

Step-by-step guidance for your preparations.

Months Before

Passport Check

Passport validity for six months beyond your stay. Renew if needed.

Visa Application

Research visa type. Apply for e-Visa (Evisa.gov.bh). Allow 3-5 business days.

Bookings

Flights and major accommodations. Early booking often yields better prices.

Month Before

Confirmations

Double-check all your flight, hotel, and tour confirmations.

Vaccinations

Consult a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations. Do this 4-6 weeks before travel.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit in your home country if you plan to drive.

Week Before

Airport Transfers

Confirm your airport transfers in Manama.

Documents & Copies

Print and download all essential documents. Store digital copies.

Home Care

Arrange for pet care, house sitting, or mail collection.

Prior Bookings

Advance reservations for your trip components.

Reservations

Flights: Book your international and any domestic flights in advance.
Accommodations: Secure your hotel or serviced apartment reservations.
Rental Cars: If you plan to rent a car, book it ahead of time.
Popular Tours: Pre-book popular tours if you have specific dates in mind.

Pre-Travel Information

information for your journey.

Important Information

Customs and Etiquette: Local practices for respectful interactions.
Basic Arabic Phrases: Learn a few courtesy phrases.
Currency and Costs: Bahraini Dinar, typical expenses.
Local Events: Check for any local events, festivals, or public holidays.

Departure Home Readiness

Your home is cared for while away.

Security

Secure your home by locking all doors.
Notify trusted neighbors of your absence.
Close all windows securely.
Use timers for lights for security.

Mail Services

Pause mail deliveries.
Stop newspaper subscriptions.
Arrange for package collection.
Inform your post office.

Utilities

Adjust thermostats for efficiency.
Turn off unnecessary lights.
Unplug non-essential appliances.
Pay any bills coming due.

Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive Travel insurance is wise. Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and luggage loss is beneficial.

Upon Arrival

Landing in Manama.

Initial Procedures

1
Immigration:
Proceed through immigration clearance. Have passport and visa documents ready.
2
Luggage:
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim.
3
Currency/ATM:
Exchange a small amount of currency or withdraw cash from an ATM.

Orientation Tasks

Map Location:
Locate your hotel on a map.
Nearby Services:
Identify the nearest ATM, pharmacy, and grocery store.
Public Transport:
Familiarize yourself with public transport options from your location.

From Airport to Stay

Transportation Options

Use your pre-booked hotel shuttle.

Take an official airport taxi or a ride-sharing app.

SIM Card & Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card if you plan to use one for mobile data and calls.

Stay connected from the moment you arrive.

Initial Purchases

Obtain bottled water immediately.

Especially during hot hours upon arrival.

Arrival Day Advice

Using ride-sharing apps like Careem or Uber for travel from the airport is a common choice.

Departure Checklist

Farewell Manama.

Shopping & Logistics

Plan time for any last-minute souvenir shopping.
Check airline baggage allowances for purchased items.
Inquire about shipping options from major stores for larger items.
Bahrain does not widely implement a VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Final Travel Steps

Arrive at Bahrain International Airport 2-3 hours before departure.
Allow extra time for traffic, especially during peak hours.
Confirm your return flight details and terminal.
Return any rental car with a full tank of fuel.

Departure Day Memo

Final checks ease your journey.

Confirm all bookings and transport arrangements before heading to the airport.

Pre-Trip Checklist