Manama, Bahrain Destination Guide Overview of Manama First mentioned in Islamic chronicles in the year 1345, historical Manama is now the capital and largest city of Bahrain at the north-eastern tip of the Persian Gulf island state. There is a strong colonial influence in the area, with Portuguese occupation in 1521 followed by Persian dominance in 1602. This lovely city is a great base from which to enjoy the stunning beaches, buildings and sites in the area. The economy of Manama was traditionally based on pearling, fishing, boat building, and trade, displays of which can now be seen in local museums. In 1932, the discovery of petroleum boosted the city's economy, which has recently diversified into tourism and retail. Open-minded and tolerant of other cultures, Manama is visited by a large number of foreigners each year. These visitors can enjoy a vast array of attractions, from souks(markets) and shopping malls to forts and pearl museums. There is also an active nightlife with many popular restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from, making this a splendid vacation destination. Key Facts Language: Arabic is the official language in Bahrain, although English is widely understood and is used by most businesses. Passport/Visa: All persons who wish to enter Bahrain need a visa, except citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). Visas can be obtained on arrival or online at www.evisa.gov.bh. Not all nationalities qualify for visas on arrival. A passport valid for duration of stay is required, but it is recommended that passports be valid for at least six months beyond intended travel. Visitors also require tickets or documentation for return or onward travel as well as proof of sufficient funds and address of stay in Bahrain. Currency: The official currency is the Bahraini dinar (BHD). The Bahraini dinar is linked to the US Dollar at a rate of US$1=BD 0.376. Money can be exchanged at bureaux de change, commercial banks in Manama or at money changers operating in souks. ATMs are available in larger towns. Credit cards are widely accepted. Electricity: Electrical current in Bahrain is 230 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used. Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Page 1/12 Manama, Bahrain Destination Guide Travel to Manama Climate for Manama Manama experiences extreme climatic conditions, with summer temperatures in July rising to 102°F (39°C) and winter temperatures in January as low as 57°F (14°C). The most pleasant time to visit Manama is in autumn (October and November) when warm temperatures are tempered by a soft breeze. Manama has an arid climate with little rainfall. Health Notes when travelling to Bahrain No vaccinations are required for visitors to Bahrain, but a hepatitis A vaccination is recommended. Medical facilities are good in the main cities, but health insurance is recommended because visitors must pay for treatment. There are many well-stocked pharmacies in the country. Water is deemed clean and safe by the authorities, but visitors usually prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available. Safety Notes when travelling to Bahrain Although the crime rate in Bahrain is relatively low, visitors should be aware that along with other states in the Gulf region, the country is at risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda on Western interests. Visitors are advised to be vigilant and avoid public demonstrations. Around 10,000 British nationals live in Bahrain, and thousands more visit each year. The vast majority of visits are trouble free. Customs in Bahrain Although it is a liberal state, Bahrain is an Islamic country and many locals find scanty clothing and immoderate public behaviour offensive. Visitors should dress and act respectfully. Religious and social sensitivities should be observed and respected, especially during religious festivals. Foreigners are not expected to fast during the holy month of Ramadan, but it is considered extremely inconsiderate to eat, drink, or smoke in public during this time. Homosexuality is illegal. Duty Free in Bahrain Travellers to Bahrain over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 250g tobacco (in open packets); perfume up to 237ml; 1 litre alcoholic liquor and 6 cans of beer for non-Muslim passengers only; and gifts to the value of BD 250. Doing Business in Bahrain Bahrain is generally more liberal than its Arab neighbours, but businesswomen should nevertheless ensure that they wear conservative clothing and men are expected to wear smart suits and ties. Bahrainis prefer to do business with those whom they have a personal relationship with so a letter of introduction from someone they know is appreciated. English is used as the language of business, but expect prolonged small talk and personal enquiries before sitting down to do business, as building a trustworthy relationship is important. Rushing a deal and high-pressure sales tactics are frowned upon. Impatience has no place, so plenty of time should be allowed for decision-making. For meetings, punctuality is important and business cards are routinely handed out to everyone, using both hands and preferably with the Arabic translation on the back of the card face up. It is important to study a received card for a while before putting it away. Formal titles should be used. Business hours are Sunday to Thursday 7am to 2pm. Most businesses take a break in the afternoon between 1pm and 3pm, but are open later in the evening. During the holy month of Ramadan working hours are reduced. Communication in Bahrain The international direct dialling code for Bahrain is +973. There are no city or area codes. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option. Internet is available at most of the larger hotels in Manama. Tipping in Bahrain Most restaurants and hotels in Bahrain add a service charge of 10 to 15 percent to their bills. However, you may leave a tip at your discretion. Taxi drivers expect a 10 percent tip and porters will be happy with about 100 fils per item of baggage. Page 2/12 Manama, Bahrain Destination Guide Passport/Visa Note All persons who wish to enter Bahrain need a visa, except citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). Visas can be obtained on arrival or online at www.evisa.gov.bh. Not all nationalities qualify for visas on arrival. A passport valid for duration of stay is required, but it is recommended that passports be valid for at least six months beyond intended travel. Visitors also require tickets or documentation for return or onward travel as well as proof of sufficient funds and address of stay in Bahrain. Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens require a valid passport and a visa (or electronic visa) to enter Bahrain. Single entry Electronic Visas may be obtained online before travel, or a one-month tourist or business visa can be obtained on arrival, with the option to extend this by two weeks. Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens require a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a one-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. A two-week extension is possible. Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens require a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a three-month visa obtainable on arrival. British passport holders with endorsements other than 'British Citizen' should confirm official requirements before travel. Entry requirements for Australians: Australians need a valid passport and a visa, obtainable online (www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a one-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. A two-week extension is possible. Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals need a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a three-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealanders require a valid passport and an eVisa, obtainable online prior to their visit, or a one-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival. A two-week extension is possible. Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans need a visa and a valid passport to visit Bahrain. Visas are obtainable online prior to travel. Page 3/12 Manama, Bahrain Destination Guide Getting around in Manama, Bahrain There is little in the way of public transport in Manama, with most residents driving their own cars to get around. While long-haul buses link the major cities in Bahrain, local travel can be less organised and predictable for those visiting the capital city. Taxis are perhaps the most popular way for travellers to get around Manama. There are plenty of cabs throughout the city, so finding a vacant one should not be much of a problem. Visitors should insist that the official meter is used, as it is extremely common for drivers to try and rip tourists off with an exorbitant fixed fee.