The Ultimate Bahrain Layover Guide

Long layovers may be a hassle to some but others may really enjoy them since long layovers pretty much offer you a 2-in-1 deal as you get to visit an additional place without the extra cost.

So next time when you're on a long Bahrain layover, I am happy to say: Been there done that and I've got you covered!

There are even a few things to do inside Bahrain International Airport to pass the time, in case you don't want to head outside.

But with a half day to a full 24-hour layover, you should definitely grab the opportunity to explore Bahrain and get to know its history and culture or simply just enjoy it before your next flight.

And don't worry about missing your flight. Bahrain International Airport is located on Muharraq Island, only 9 km away from its capital Manama and the city centre.

Things To Do Inside The Bahrain Airport

1. Hang out in one of the airport lounges

Gulf Air Lounges

Bahrain Airport has three premium lounges that you can stay in. One is the impeccable Gulf Air Business and First Class Lounges, which is situated at the upper level. Just take the escalators by Gate 15's departure area.

It overlooks the main apron and offers a view of the airplanes as they land and take off. This lounge is great for business travelers and families alike. It has a waiter service and different facilities for working, sleeping, and catching up on global news.

The restaurant is aptly called The Dining Room for Falcon Gold passengers. There is also the Business Centre which is your office away from home, complete with telephones, fax machines, wireless Internet connection, and even Apple Mac computers. 

If you prefer to rest your head during your layover, the Quiet Room is the place to go where you can find five comfy chaise lounges.

For traveling families, the vibrantly coloured Family Section is made especially for you. This separate lounging area includes a playroom with Xbox systems and games.

This lounge also has an extension of the Sky Nanny to help you look after the kids. The lounge also has shower facilities and prayer rooms for your convenience. You usually pay a rate to stay for 4 hours.

Dilmun Lounge

Another airport lounge is the Dilmun Lounge. You may gain entry with a fee of Bahraini Dinar BD18 for a 3-hour access paid through cash or credit. Travelers may stay for 3 hours max. Kids above 2 years old are treated as regular guests and children must always be with an adult at all times.

The Dilmun Lounge facilities are the buffet, an open bar, TV airing news channels, wireless Internet service, 2 business centres, a fax machine, a Flight Information Monitor, and sleeper seats. The family room includes toys and games for the young ones with 2 baby changing stations. There are also wardrobes, washrooms, and shower facilities.

The last one is Marhaba Lounge which is made available to anyone no matter what airline or travel class you're in. This airport lounge is open round the clock. It has a business centre complete with computers, Internet access, telephones and fax machines. You can also dine in their onsite food court. There is also a designated room for smokers.

2. Go Shopping

While inside the Bahrain Airport, you can while away your time shopping at Bahrain Duty Free or pick up a book at the bookshop. There are electronics, handbags, cosmetics and perfume, the usual.

Don't expect a crazy shopping paradise here as you would in Dubai or Singapore Airport though.

3. Relax at a restaurant or coffee shop

The airport has a selection of dining areas and cafes to choose from.

They have Starbucks, Chili's, Costa Coffee, Dairy Queen, Papa John's, Jasmi's, Caribou, Romanos Macaroni Grill, Habara Irish Pub Int, Habara Skybar, McDonald's, Gloria Jean's Coffees, and Magic Corn.

Bahrain Layover Visa

So do you need a visa to exit the airport? If you plan on staying at the airport during your layover time, then you don't need a transit visa. But if you do want to go sightseeing on the island, then you will need one.

Here, you have two options. One is applying for a transit visa through your airline. To be sure, inquire about this ahead of time. The other option is to do it yourself by visiting the e-visa website. Normally, this is an easy and straightforward process.

Looking For A Hotel In Bahrain For Your Layover?

Bahrain offers a wide range of hotels that cater to travelers passing through the country, ensuring a restful and enjoyable stopover experience. Whether you're in search of a luxurious hotel with world-class amenities, a budget-friendly option that still provides comfort, or a charming boutique hotel with local flair, Bahrain has something to suit you.

Many hotels are located in close proximity to Bahrain International Airport, making it easy to access them during your short stay.

Here are three hotels near Bahrain International Airport:

1. The Gulf Hotel Bahrain: The Gulf Hotel Bahrain is one of the most renowned luxury hotels in Bahrain, located approximately a 10-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport. It offers a wide range of facilities, including multiple dining options, spa services, and well-appointed rooms.
2. Movenpick Hotel Bahrain: This upscale hotel is situated close to the airport and provides comfortable rooms, dining options, a rooftop bar, and a beautiful pool area. It's an excellent choice for business travelers and those with layovers.
3. Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort: While not as close to the airport as some other options, Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort offers a pleasant beachfront location and is about a 15-20 minute drive from Bahrain International Airport. It's a great choice if you want to relax by the sea during your layover.

Things To Do In Bahrain

Bahrain National Museum

Each country has its own culture and ethnicity. What better way to get to know Bahrain's history and culture than through visiting Bahrain National Museum. With just a minimal entry fee, you'll be mesmerized by how much you can learn about Bahrain through the exhibits.

This is the most popular tourism spot wherein you can get to know Bahrain's history and life. From the island's ancient history to Bahrain today, you can find all these in the museum.

This country also has many archaeological sites and some even speculated that Bahrain is where the Garden of Eden was situated.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Al Fateh Grand Mosque or the Great Mosque to some is aptly named for having the biggest fiberglass dome in the world and being Bahrain's biggest building. It is one of the world's biggest mosques as well.

It can house more than 7,000 worshippers at one time. The mosque also houses the National Library. Women will be requested to don an abaya and a headscarf before entering.

Then, your volunteer guide will be able to give you an informative tour of the place and the culture. Be ready with your camera for the fine interiors really are picture perfect.

Bahrain Fort

Bahrain is dotted with many interesting archaeological digs but the best one to visit is the Bahrain Fort or in the local tongue, the Qal'at al-Bahrain. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so you are rest assured of the authenticity and old grandeur of the place. The Qal'at al-Bahrain used to be the site of the capital and harbour of Dilmun (olden time Bahrain).

The vast archaeological dig unearthed public, commercial, residential and even military structures in the area. There are more than 500 artifacts in 5 exhibition halls that you can check out with the help of an audio guide.

Bahrain International Circuit

Here's one for car racing enthusiasts or just about anyone who is a fan of anything fast and furious. Drop by Bahrain International Circuit, the home of motorsport in the Middle East and see for yourself one of the venues for the acclaimed Formula One Grand Prix.

Even better news is that you get to experience the thrill as a driver or a passenger. You have a choice of the following cars: the Renault Clio, Radical SR1, Radical SR3, and a 3-seat Top Dragster. The place also offers VIP tours to see behind-the-scene areas such as the 2 towers, the media centre, the track, and the welcome centre where you can shop for souvenirs.

Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve

What is a trip to the Middle East without seeing at least one camel? Head over to Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve to have close contact with these gangly yet adorable creatures. You may even feed them by hand.

This park not only has camels but you'll also get to see a desert flora garden and a wide variety of water birds, wild birds, and wild animals such as the Arabian wolf, the Saluki dog, the hyena and so many more.

La Fontaine Centre

More than 150 years old, the La Fontaine Centre really lasted the test of time. Its style resembles a European chateau with a touch of Gulf Islamic architecture. The centre occupies over 5,000 square metres. It is divided into 2 sections: the 19th century historical monument and the construction of 6 new buildings.

This was the private home of the Alireza family which was restored and transformed to house an art gallery and museum, an amphitheatre, a fine dining restaurant, a spa, and a pilates studio.

The restaurant caters to guests every Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. This is the perfect spot to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing.

Souvenir hunting at Bab Al Bahrain Suq

The Bab Al Bahrain is a distinguishable white edifice that now houses the visitor's center and the tourism sector offices. It was restored to restore its former glory and is one of Bahrain's cultural landmarks.

This also serves as the entrance to the Manama suq, a huge array of stalls, shops, and department stores that sell a variety of goods such as textiles, spices, Persian rugs and carpets, tobacco, incense, souvenirs, handicrafts, and so much more.

There are traditional coffee shops and restaurants offering local cuisine so you can get a taste of the authentic Bahrain dishes. Make sure to grab a memento before you leave.

Jewellery shopping at Gold City

The Kingdom of Bahrain has been a gold trader since the olden times. Until now, their gold industry has been booming and attracting shoppers from all over the world.

Gold City is a modern and contemporary gold suq shopping mall. It specializes in gold jewelry and other precious gems by over 100 branded jewelry companies. Here you are reassured of quality gold, crafted to perfection at an affordable cost.

Staying Safe in Bahrain

Just like with any other country, one should always have safety in mind. When traveling in Bahrain, it is advised to exercise more caution. Spontaneous anti-government protests, demonstrations, and even threats of terrorism happen especially come nighttime and the weekend. These may become violent so it is essential that you should avoid these commotions.

For solo lady travellers, it is even more essential to exercise greater caution in this conservative country. Heed the following safety tips:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
• Be conscious of the cultural differences when interacting with men here. Avoid looking too long at a man's eyes and smiling at them since these may be considered sexual advancements. Avoid being too friendly. If ever you do encounter an uncomfortable situation with a man, create a scene to stop such acts.
• Also, note that blondes tend to attract more men so consider covering up with a hat or scarf.
• Last thing, public displays of affection may seem normal in your country but that is not the way here in Bahrain so avoid PDAs also.

Bahrain Layover Guide – Final Words

The authentic Arab culture, the exotic smells and tastes, and even those cuddly camels will captivate you. Perhaps as you head back to Bahrain International Airport, you will want more of the Middle East.

Though this layover side trip may be quick I hope this short stop at the Kingdom of Bahrain will open your senses and widen your horizons to a new realm of travelling. There is more that Bahrain can offer. This peek at Bahraini life might just pique your interest. I won't be surprised if you'll book an actual trip to Bahrain one of these days.

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