The US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 17 June in relation to the conflict in the Middle East, however the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable. Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region, including Bahrain, against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. On 20 July, the US Embassy Manama issued an advisory that Iran may seek to target unspecified locations in central Manama. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.
\n\nBritish nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions, and should:
\n\nread If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
\nsign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
\nfollow advice from the local authorities
\nmonitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
\nstay away from areas around security or military facilities
\nkeep your departure plans under review, noting that in April 2026 there was simultaneous closure of airspace and the King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia, and ensure your travel documents are up to date
\nif advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects
\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Bahrain’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Bahrain set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bahrain Embassy in the UK.
\n\nTo enter Bahrain, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nIf you are a dual Bahraini-UK national the authorities may require you to enter and exit Bahrain on a Bahrain travel document only. If your Bahraini passport is not valid or in your possession, seek advice from your nearest Bahraini Embassy before you travel to Bahrain. Bahraini passport renewals whilst in Bahrain may take a long time and could potentially disrupt your travel plans. Decisions related to entering and exiting Bahrain are always made by the Bahraini authorities.
\n\nIf you are not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bahrain Embassy in the UK or Bahrain’s Nationality, Passports and Residency Affairs (NPRA).
\n\nYou must have a visa to visit Bahrain.
\n\nYou can get a visa:
\n\nVisas are automatically issued for a 2-week period, but visit visas for stays of up to 6 months are also available. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply.
\n\nYou cannot start employment in Bahrain if you enter on a visit visa.
\n\nIf you overstay your visa, there could be penalties, legal issues and your work visa could be cancelled.
\n\nYou can apply to renew your visa at the Nationality, Passports and Residential Affairs department at the Ministry of Interior.
\n\nYou can apply for residency through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).
\n\nYou can be fined if you overstay your legal residency.
\n\nYou may be prevented from leaving Bahrain if you:
\n\nIf you’re involved in a dispute, including civil and criminal disputes or immigration violation, you may be stopped from leaving the country. The travel ban will not be lifted until the issue is resolved. You may not know you’re subject to a travel ban until you try to leave or enter Bahrain. You can check with the Bahrain Immigration Department to see whether you’re subject to a travel ban.
\n\nTo enter Bahrain, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Bahrain guide.
\n\nAs a public health measure, non-Bahraini passengers who have visited countries affected by the Ebola outbreak within the past 30 days will not be accepted for entry into the Kingdom of Bahrain. Check directly with local authorities and your airline before travel to confirm if this may apply to you.
\n\nThe World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Bahrain. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bahrain.
\nAttacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.
\n\nPrevious attacks using explosive devices in public places have killed and injured people. An attack has not been carried out successfully for several years.
\n\nTerrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including on:
\n\nBe aware of your surroundings, particularly during high profile events, and avoid large demonstrations.
\n\nDemonstrations and protests take place. This can cause:
\n\nThe risk of protest can increase around anniversaries of significant events in Bahrain and can start with little warning. Locations of past protests include:
\n\nIt has been announced that public gatherings in roads or public squares are temporarily banned to protect public safety. You should leave the area if you see a large public gathering or demonstration. In the event of a protest:
\n\nIf you see a suspect item, move away and call the police on 999 or the Police Hotline 8000 8008.
\n\nTravel on the main routes during daylight hours is generally orderly. There can be a police presence or checkpoints on major roads.
\n\nPolitical developments in the wider region have an impact on local public opinion and actions. Be aware of local sensitivities, follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which could lead to public disturbances.
\n\nCrime is low in most areas, but you should take normal precautions to protect your belongings. For personal safety, only use reputable taxi companies.
\n\nBahrain is a liberal country compared to others in the region, but there are still conservative social views.
\n\nYou should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions and make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during Ramadan and Shia religious festivals. Bahrainis observe some religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in other Gulf countries.
\n\nFilming, photography, publishing or redistributing photos or videos of security and military sites, operations or incidents is prohibited. This includes the promotion of unverified or fabricated content pertaining to events, attacks or acts of aggression against Bahrain. Violation of this prohibition risks arrest and prosecution.
\n\nRespect the local culture and public security rules when using social media. It could amount to a crime if you post online any message, video or photograph, that:
\n\nYou must carry photo ID such as a passport by law. You could be fined up to 300 Bahraini dinars if you cannot show photo ID if asked by the Bahraini authorities.
\n\nDress conservatively in public places, particularly religious sites.
\n\nBahrainis often dress conservatively in traditional dress. You could cause offence if you dress inappropriately or not in accordance with Islamic values.
\n\nDress appropriately and modestly in public places, such as malls, restaurants, and parks. Clothing should not:
\n\nNudity is strictly forbidden, including topless sunbathing. These rules are even more closely observed during Ramadan when modesty is promoted.
\n\nIslamic religious values are respected in Bahrain. Any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and will likely lead to a heavy fine or a prison sentence.
\n\nMuslims pray 5 times a day. Drivers may stop in lay-bys to pray.
\n\nOther religions are respected in Bahrain and can be followed with freedom.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:
\n\nThese actions could amount to a crime under Bahraini law. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
\n\nYou should also:
\n\nOffensive language, spitting and aggressive behaviour (including ‘road rage’ hand gestures) are seen as seriously offensive and can result in a prison sentence and deportation.
\n\nAlcohol is legal in Bahrain. However, drunken public behaviour is against the law. You could be fined, imprisoned or deported.
\n\nSecurity officers and airline staff will not tolerate passengers believed to be drunk at the airport, including those who are in transit. You may be denied boarding, detained and fined.
\n\nIllegal drugs are strictly forbidden, even a residual amount. Consuming or carrying illegal drugs, even if you are travelling through the airport, can lead to a prison sentence and deportation. Buying or selling illegal drugs and narcotics is illegal and can lead to a life sentence.
\n\nSome skincare products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in Bahrain, such as CBD oil.
\n\nIt is illegal to fly drones or remote-controlled unmanned aerial vehicle flying devices without a valid licence or in restricted airspace. See the Bahrain Civil Aviation Authority for further details.
\n\nSame-sex sexual activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years old is not prohibited by law. However, public displays of affection can cause offence and are illegal. While arrests are rare, there are some reported cases of individuals punished for same-sex activity.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Bahrain, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Bahrain for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence.
\n\nIf you are staying longer than 3 months, you’ll need to have the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) or apply for a Bahraini driving licence. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nDrink-driving is a serious offence in Bahrain. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine, a travel ban and a possible prison sentence.
\n\nThere is a curfew on the waterways around Bahrain between 6.30pm to 4am.
\n\nThe local authorities are sensitive to the security around the sea areas of the Gulf. Vessels entering these waters or posts can be detained and inspected, and there have been occasional arrests. Make sure you have the necessary clearances before you enter the waters or visit ports. Avoid any sensitive areas.
\n\nTake care when travelling by local sailing boats (‘dhows’). The safety of these vessels may not comply with UK standards. Make sure lifejackets are available.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nCall 999 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Bahrain.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nIf you are using prescribed drugs, you should carry a doctor’s note. If you plan to bring prescription drugs into Bahrain, you may need to seek prior agreement from the authorities. Check with the nearest Bahrain Embassy or consulate before you travel.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Bahrain where some staff will speak English.
\n\nYou will be charged for emergency medical treatment. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nTelephone: 999 (ambulance, fire, police)
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Bahrain on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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