A little more
Bahrain.
A lot less roaming.

Travelling to Bahrain: what to know before you go

Bahrain is a small island kingdom in the Gulf, linked to Saudi Arabia by a long causeway. Behind its modern skyline lie the remains of the ancient Dilmun civilisation, a centuries-old pearling heritage and busy traditional souqs. It suits short city breaks, history lovers and motorsport fans.

Where to go

• Qal'at al-Bahrain. Bahrain Fort sits on an artificial mound built up by thousands of years of settlement, from the Dilmun period to the Portuguese fort that crowns it today.
• The Pearling Path, Muharraq. A UNESCO-listed trail through Muharraq's old town that links merchants' houses, a pearl merchant's home, and the coastal sites connected with the Gulf pearling economy that thrived until the twentieth century.
• Bahrain National Museum. A museum in Manama covering Dilmun burial customs, traditional crafts, pearling and the island's history, with a good introduction for first-time visitors.
• Al Fateh Grand Mosque. One of the largest mosques in the region, with a vast prayer hall under a large dome.

Best time to visit

November to March is the most comfortable time, with warm days and cool evenings. April and October are hot, and summer, from May to September, is very hot and humid.

Staying online in Bahrain

Mobile coverage is excellent across the island, including the desert south, with 4G and 5G widely available in populated areas. Free Wi-Fi is available in hotels, malls, many cafés and the airport. Some internet calling services may be limited. Install an eSIM before you fly and switch it on when you land so ride-hailing and maps work from the airport.