Capital: Manama
Location:
Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia ( 3.5 timesthe size of Washington, DC).
Registration Embassy and Consulate:
Americans living in or visiting Bahrain are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Manama and obtain updated information on travel and security within Bahrain. The U.S. Embassy is located at Bldg. 979, Road no. 3119, Zinj District (next to Al Ahli Sports Club). (The mailing address is P.O. Box 26431, Manama, Bahrain.) The telephone number is 973-273-300. The Consular Section fax number is 973-256-242. The Embassy maintains an English language hotline providing information on current travel conditions in Bahrain at telephone 973-255-048. The Embassy's website, which includes consular information, is http://www.usembassy.com.bh. The workweek in Bahrain is Saturday through Wednesday.
Background:
Bahrain's small size and central location among Persian Gulf countries require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. Possessing minimal oil reserves, Bahrain has turned to petroleum processing and refining, and has transformed itself into an international banking center. The new amir is pushing economic and political reforms, and has worked to improve relations with the Shi'a community. In 2001, the International Court of Justice awarded the Hawar Islands, long disputed with Qatar, to Bahrain.
Ethnic Groups:
Bahraini 63%, Asian 19%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%
Language:
Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu
Currency:
BHD
Bahraini dinar (BHD)
Bahraini dinars per US dollar - 0.3760 (fixed rate pegged to the US dollar)
Climate:
Arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
Population:
645,361
note: includes 228,424 non-nationals (July 2001 est.)
Religion:
Shi'a Muslim 70%, Sunni Muslim 30%
Medical:
Basic modern medical care and medicines are available in several hospitals and health centers in Bahrain. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars or more.
Safety:
Americans in Bahrain should maintain a high level of security awareness. Over the past several years, Bahrain has experienced sporadic acts of politically related vandalism and arson in which explosive devices have been used. Although domestic political tensions have been reduced by recent government initiatives, political developments in either Bahrain or the Middle East region can inflame emotions and, potentially, anti-American sentiments. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks against United States citizens and interests throughout the world. The U.S. Embassy in Manama recommends that visitors limit their activities to tourist attractions and major urban commercial districts. The U.S. Embassy in Manama suggests that all Americans maintain an unpredictable schedule and vary travel routes whenever possible. Americans also are urged to treat mail from unfamiliar sources with suspicion and to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects. Please report any suspicious activity, individuals, vehicles, or objects to the U.S. Embassy's Regional Security Office at telephone 973-273-300.
Traffic Safety:
While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information concerning Bahrain is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation:
Poor
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance:
Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance:
Poor
Availability of Roadside/Ambulance Assistance:
Fair
Travel by road in Bahrain is generally safe, although unsafe driving practices are common. Highways and major roads in the northern third of Bahrain are four to six lanes wide, and they are well maintained; roads in villages and older parts of Manama and Muharraq are narrow and twisting. As in the United States, Bahrain traffic moves on the right. Roundabouts (traffic circles) follow the British system, with those automobiles within the traffic circle having right of way over those attempting to enter. While there is a fine of at least 50 Bahrain Dinars for speeding (speed limits range from 50 to 100 km. per hour), it is not uncommon to be passed by cars traveling 120 to 140 km. per hour on the highway. A car flashing its high beams is generally asking for a chance to pass.
Under Bahraini law, any sign of having consumed alcohol may be taken as prima facie evidence of driving under the influence, which can lead to imprisonment and/or fines. If involved in an accident, drivers may not move their vehicles until a report has been filed with the traffic police. If the cars are moved, insurance companies may not provide coverage. If an accident results in legal proceedings, both drivers may be prohibited from leaving the country until the matter is resolved.
Emergency numbers are as follows:
Fire/Ambulance/Police: 999
Traffic/Accidents: 688-888
Passers-by commonly stop to assist stranded drivers; many have mobile phones and will offer to call for assistance. Members of the American Automobile Association (AAA) can call for assistance from the red and white Automobile Association boxes located on highways.
For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, please see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html.
