CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Bahrain

1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 8 has been updated (removal of information on Ramadan).

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

Bahrain

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian visitors to Bahrain do not experience problems.

There is a constant and high terrorist threat throughout the Arabian Peninsula and Jordan. From time to time, reports emerge that terrorists plan to attack specific locations in one of these countries. Targets could include government buildings, public areas, tourist sites and Western interests. Heightened security measures are currently in place and may be reinforced upon short notice. Canadians are strongly advised to maintain a high level of vigilance and personal security awareness at all times. Caution should be particularly exercised in areas known to be frequented by foreigners (commercial, public, touristic). Canadians should monitor local developments and follow the advice of local authorities. Canadians are also advised to register and keep in contact with the Consulate of Canada in Manama or the Embassy of Canada in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as well as to carefully follow messages issued through the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service.

Demonstrations and Civil Unrest

Bahrain is witnessing a rise in violent riots and demonstrations that are causing significant disruption to daily activities. Political and religious tensions are usually the main cause of concern. Canadians should expect transportation delays as streets are often closed by local authorities to isolate the protests. Canadians are advised to avoid all political gatherings, crowds and demonstrations and to stay away from areas where they usually occur, as they might turn violent without warning. Canadians should particularly avoid visiting districts in and around Manama and Al-Seef.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.

Crime

Petty crime, such as purse-snatching and pickpocketing, occurs. Violent crime is rare. Caution should be particularly exercised in the old market areas (souks), village areas, and poorer districts, especially after dark. To reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim, showing signs of affluence should be avoided and personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents should be secure at all times.

Women’s Safety

There have been reports of physical and verbal harassment towards women. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

General Safety Information

Dial 999 for police, ambulance, and fire emergencies.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Bahraini authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Bahrain. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Whatever the purpose of their stay, Canadians should be in possession of a visa obtained at the nearest embassy or consulate of Bahrain. Visas can be obtained at the airport. Those overstaying the duration of their visa should expect heavy penalties.

Women travelling alone may encounter increased scrutiny by immigration officials. To ensure that entry is not refused, visas should be obtained prior to arrival.

Vaccination

Proof of vaccination for yellow fever and cholera may be required.

Regional Travel

An Israeli border stamp in a passport no longer prevents travellers from obtaining a Bahraini visa or entering the country, but airline personnel may not be aware of this change. It is preferable to obtain visas prior to arrival in Bahrain.

Canadians travelling in the Middle East are advised that their passports could come under increased scrutiny by immigration authorities, and the authenticity of their passports could be questioned due to incidents of possible misuse. Canadians experiencing problems are encouraged to contact the nearest Canadian government office or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa for advice and assistance.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Bahrain - MANAMA, Consulate of Canada
Address: Al Jasrah Tower, 12th Floor, Building No. 95, Road 1702, Block 317, Diplomatic Area, Manama, Bahrain
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2397, Manama, Bahrain,
Tel.: 973 (17) 536270
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 800-00-732
Fax: 973 (17) 532520
E-Mail: canadabh@batelco.com.bh

The Embassy of Canada in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has consular responsibility for Bahrain.

Saudi Arabia - RIYADH, Embassy of Canada
Address: Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 94321, Riyadh, 11693, Saudi Arabia
Tel.: 966 (1) 488-2288
Fax: 966 (1) 488-1997
E-Mail: ryadh@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.saudiarabia.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, you can also call the Embassy of Canada in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, or the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Adequate medical services are available in Bahrain. Immediate payment is required.

Tap water is clean and free from contamination. However, travellers should boil water or drink bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, dairy products, and most food sold in the streets.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.  

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

Religion

The country's customs, laws, and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Religious and social traditions should be respected in order to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Legal Process

Individuals subject to Bahraini court orders arising from indebtedness, labour disagreements, or other legal disputes may be prevented from departing Bahrain until their cases are resolved.

Identification Documents

Identification documents should be carried at all times. Visitors are advised to leave their passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy for identification purposes.

Dress and Behaviour

Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Men and women should dress conservatively (e.g., women should wear a headscarf and also cover their arms and legs).

Travellers can face heavy fines if showing disrespect toward officials by making verbal insults and obscene gestures.

Illegal and/or Restricted Activities

Religious proselytizing is not permitted.

Homosexuality is an offence under Bahraini law, punishable by imprisonment and deportation.

Common-law relationships are tolerated but not recognized.

In public, physical contact (e. g. holding hands) should be avoided.

Bahraini customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary import or export of items, such as firearms, ammunition, and other weapons; pornography or seditious literature; and habit-forming or hallucinatory drugs.

Criminal penalties for possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs are strict and include the death penalty. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and/or heavy fines. The possession of drugs, even a very small amount, can result in arrest and, if convicted, a minimum four-year prison term.

Alcohol is available and can be purchased by non-Muslims at special stores. Restrictions concerning the consumption of alcohol must be observed. There is a zero tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving and attitudes regarding alcohol are not favourable. Drinking while in transit through a Bahraini airport could lead to detention and fines.
 
Authorization should be obtained prior to photographing buildings or individuals.

Family

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.

Dual Nationality

Bahrain does not recognize dual nationality. Dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Accidents are common. Driving habits and style differ markedly from those practiced in Canada. Drifting sands and roaming animals can pose hazards.

In the event of an accident and if there are injuries, drivers should not attempt to move the vehicle until a report has been filed, even though it may impede traffic. Emergency numbers when an accident occurs are 999, if there are injuries, and 199, if there are no injuries.

Off-road driving can be hazardous and should only be undertaken in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles with an experienced guide. A travel itinerary should be left with a third party. Travellers considering driving in the desert areas of Wahiba and Rub' Al Khali should be well prepared and equipped with gasoline, water, food, and a cellular phone. Cellular phone coverage may not be available in some parts of the country.

Taxis are generally safe. Officially marked taxis should only be used. Fares should be pre-negotiated or the meter should be used; there have been reports of overcharging. 

There is a causeway between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Proper travel documents should be carried if travelling to Saudi Arabia.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the Bahraini dinar (BD). Credit cards, traveller's cheques, and U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Automated banking machines (ABM) are available.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Bahrain is subject to sand and dust storms, as well as periods of drought.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Local law does not allow adoption of children by foreigners.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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