Transportation in Bahrain
Bahrain's small size (about 30km x 15km) makes it easy to get around, but a car is essential for most residents. Public transportation is limited, though improving.
Driving in Bahrain
License Requirements:
Expats from these countries can convert licenses without a driving test:
- GCC countries (Saudi, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar)
- USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
- Most EU countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, etc.)
- Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong
Conversion Process:
- Book appointment via Skiplino app
- Visit Traffic Directorate (A'Ali branch recommended)
- Bring: passport, CPR, valid foreign license, eye test
- Pay fee (approximately BHD 20)
- Receive Bahraini license (valid 5 years)
First-Time Drivers:
- 22 hours mandatory lessons (~BHD 154 total)
- Written and practical test (~BHD 10)
- License fee: BHD 20
Road Rules
- Drive on the right side
- Seat belts mandatory (front seats)
- Speed limits: 50-120 km/h depending on road
- Zero tolerance for drink driving
- No road tolls anywhere in Bahrain
- Mobile phone use while driving prohibited
Car Ownership
Costs:
| Expense | Monthly (BHD) |
|---|---|
| Fuel | 30-50 (very cheap) |
| Insurance | 15-40 |
| Parking | Often free or minimal |
| Maintenance | 20-50 average |
Fuel Price: ~BHD 0.200/liter (~$0.53) - among world's cheapest
Buying a Car:
- New cars: BHD 5,000-30,000+
- Used cars: BHD 1,500-10,000
- Financing available for residents
- Registration straightforward
Rental:
- Short-term: BHD 10-25/day
- Long-term: BHD 150-350/month
Public Transportation
Buses:
- Bahrain Public Transport Company operates routes
- Fare: BHD 0.300 per trip
- Limited coverage, mainly Manama
- Air-conditioned but infrequent
No Metro/Train: Plans discussed but not implemented
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
| Service | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Careem | Excellent | Most popular, app-based |
| Uber | Good | Available throughout |
| Regular Taxis | Moderate | Metered, can negotiate |
Typical costs:
- Airport to Manama: BHD 8-12
- Within Manama: BHD 3-8
- Cross-island trip: BHD 10-15
Traffic Conditions
- Rush hours: 7-9 AM, 4-7 PM
- Congestion on causeway to Saudi Arabia
- Generally manageable due to small size
- Aggressive driving common - stay alert
Saudi Arabia Causeway
The King Fahd Causeway connects Bahrain to Saudi Arabia:
- Toll: BHD 2-8 depending on day/vehicle
- Weekend traffic can be extreme
- Valid visa required for Saudi entry
- Popular for shopping trips
Pro Tips
- •Get your driving license early - cars are essential
- •Use Careem or Uber apps for reliable transportation
- •Fill up gas tanks on weekends - stations less crowded
- •Avoid causeway on weekends - extreme traffic
- •Consider long-term car rental initially, buy later
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