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Living in Bahrain: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Bahrain | Expat Exchange
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Living in Bahrain

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 04, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Bahrain as a vibrant and diverse culture with a strong sense of community. Expats love the warm climate, the low cost of living, and the friendly people. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle. The population of Bahrain is approximately 1.6 million people, and the largest cities are Manama, Muharraq, and Riffa. The cons of living in Bahrain include the lack of public transportation, the high cost of housing, and the limited job opportunities. Additionally, the country is a conservative Islamic society, so expats may find it difficult to adjust to the cultural norms.

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What do I need to know about living in Bahrain?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bahrain, they said:

"Before retiring in Bahrain, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs. It is important to research the cost of living in Bahrain, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Expats should also consider the climate and the language spoken in Bahrain, as well as the visa and residency requirements. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, and the availability of banking and financial services. Finally, expats should research the job market and the availability of recreational activities in Bahrain," wrote a member in Bahrain.

How do I meet people in Bahrain?

When we asked people living in Bahrain about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Bahrain often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats join social media groups and online forums to connect with other expats living in Bahrain. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending networking events, such as business conferences and meetups," wrote one member in Bahrain.

What is life like in Bahrain?

When we asked people living in Bahrain what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Bahrain is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming attitude towards foreigners, making it a great place to live and work. The cost of living is relatively low, and the country offers a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. The country is also well-connected, with a modern infrastructure and excellent transportation links. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a vibrant nightlife, a wide variety of international cuisine, and a range of cultural activities. Bahrain is a great place to live and work, and many expats and digital nomads find it to be an ideal destination," commented one expat who made the move to Bahrain.

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Is there a lot of crime in Bahrain?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime in Bahrain is relatively low compared to other countries in the region. However, there have been reports of petty theft, pickpocketing, and occasional violent crime. The government has taken steps to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors, including increased police presence in public areas and the implementation of a national security strategy," said one expat who made the move to Bahrain.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Bahrain accepting of differences?

"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Bahrain. The country is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups, including Bahraini Arabs, South Asians, and Iranians. People in Bahrain are generally accepting of differences and are known for their hospitality and tolerance. Bahrain is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of festivals and events that celebrate the country's diversity," remarked one expat who made the move to Bahrain.

What are the schools in Bahrain like?

"The British School of Bahrain is one of the best international schools in Bahrain. It is a co-educational school that offers a British-style education to students from over 50 countries. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. It also offers a range of international qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The St Christopher's School is a bilingual school in Bahrain that offers a British-style education to students from over 40 countries. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. It also offers a range of international qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school also offers a range of language courses, including Arabic, French, Spanish and German. The Bahrain Bayan School is a bilingual school that offers a British-style education to students from over 40 countries. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. It also offers a range of international qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school also offers a range of language courses, including Arabic, French, Spanish and German," commented one expat when asked about in Bahrain.

Is the cost of living in Bahrain high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bahrain, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Bahrain is generally considered to be quite reasonable. The cost of basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in many other countries. Additionally, Bahrain has a low tax rate, which helps to keep the cost of living low. The cost of entertainment and leisure activities is also relatively low, making Bahrain an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy a good quality of life at an affordable price," explained one expat living in Bahrain.

"The cost of living in Bahrain is slightly higher than average for other Middle Eastern countries. Generally, the capital Manama is more expensive than the rest of Bahrain, with rental costs rising significantly. The rental costs for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Bahrain is typically around $660 US Dollars per month, and for a nice 2 bedroom apartment around $930 US Dollars per month. Eating dinner out at a moderately priced restaurant typically costs around $23 US Dollars per person," remarked one expat in Bahrain.

What type of recreational facilities are in Bahrain?

When we asked people living in Bahrain about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Bahrain enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including beaches, parks, and sports facilities. The beaches offer a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Parks provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Sports facilities include a variety of courts and fields for basketball, tennis, soccer, and other sports. There are also a number of golf courses, bowling alleys, and other recreational activities available," said one expat living in Bahrain.

What is the weather like in Bahrain?

"The weather in Bahrain is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Celsius throughout the year. The summer months are particularly hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 40 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is rare, with most of the rain falling during the winter months. The humidity can be quite high, making it feel even hotter than it actually is," commented one expat who moved to Bahrain.

Are there good restaurants in Bahrain?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Bahrain is The Meat Co. Located in the heart of Manama, this steakhouse offers a wide selection of succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and other international dishes. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list and a lively atmosphere. Another popular restaurant in Bahrain is La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. This restaurant is located in the heart of Manama and offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant features a variety of international dishes, as well as a selection of local specialties. The restaurant also has an art gallery and a live music venue. The Gulf Hotel Bahrain is home to the popular restaurant, The Olive Tree. This restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, as well as a selection of international dishes. The restaurant also features a terrace overlooking the Gulf of Bahrain. Finally, the Bahraini restaurant, Al-Areen Palace & Spa, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This restaurant offers a variety of traditional Bahraini dishes, as well as a selection of international dishes. The restaurant also features a spa and a pool," commented one expat living in Bahrain.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Bahrain?

"People living in Bahrain typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, and local markets. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are a variety of malls and shopping centers throughout Bahrain that offer a wide range of products," remarked one expat in Bahrain.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Bahrain?

"In order to visit Bahrain, visitors must obtain a visa upon arrival. The visa application process involves submitting a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a copy of your flight ticket, a valid address in Bahrain, a fee of 30 BHD, and 3 passport-sized color photos. After the application is approved, the visa validity period is 14 days. In order to obtain residence in Bahrain, the applicant can apply for an Investor’s Visa, the Non-Employment-Based Visa, the Temporary Residence Visa, or the Residence Visa for GCC nationals. An application for residence must include a valid passport with at least six months of validity, four passport-sized photos, a bank statement, documents attesting to income, and a valid address in Bahrain. Depending on the visa type, additional documents, such as a medical certificate and police clearance certificate, may also be requested. The approval period for residence in Bahrain varies based on the visa type and is typically between 1 to 3 months," mentioned one expat inBahrain.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bahrain?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Bahrain can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance premiums can vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. In general, health insurance premiums tend to be higher than in other countries, and the cost of medical treatments can be high. However, the government of Bahrain has implemented a number of initiatives to make healthcare more affordable for its citizens, such as subsidizing medical treatments and providing free health insurance for certain groups," remarked one expat in Bahrain.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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