​​Bahrain

​​Dress Code

Business attire is typically formal.
Men: Suit and tie or national dress (thobe) is acceptable in formal settings. 
Women: Conservative business attire; modest clothing is appreciated, especially in public areas.

​​Language

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business contexts and among expatriates. Familiarity with basic Arabic phrases can be beneficial. 

Telephone

​International Dialing: To call Bahrain, use +973. Drop the leading zero from area codes when dialing internationally.
Local SIM Cards: Consider purchasing a local SIM card from providers like Batelco, Zain, or Viva for affordable data and calls.

Internet

Internet access is widely available and generally good. Many hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Ensure you have offline access to important documents, as connectivity may vary in some areas. 

​​Business Hours

Government Sector Sunday to Thursday, from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Private Sector Typically, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a lunch break from 1:00–2:00 PM.  Friday and Saturday are the weekend.

Punctuality

Punctuality is important in business culture, and being on time for meetings is appreciated. However, there can be some flexibility. 

​​Meeting Etiquette

Building personal relationships is essential. Meetings often start with small talk, and exchanging business cards is customary. Use both hands when giving or receiving cards as a sign of respect. 

​​History of Major Football Incidents

Football is popular in Bahrain, with the national team participating in regional and international competitions. Notable incidents include:
2004 AFC Asian Cup: Bahrain reached the semi-finals, marking a significant achievement in their football history.
Controversies: There have been various management issues and controversies surrounding the national league.
Understanding local football culture can foster conversations with business partners. 

​​Natural Disasters

Bahrain is relatively safe from major natural disasters, Occasional dust storms or high summer temperatures may affect travel plans but rarely disrupt operations.  

​​Emergency Response

In an emergency, you can dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services. Familiarize yourself with the contact information for your hotel and local authorities. 
Emergency services are responsive, and most staff speak English.  

​​Medical Services

Healthcare in Bahrain is of high quality, with both public and private hospitals available. It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. 

​​Pharmacies

Pharmacies are widely available and generally carry a range of medications. For prescription medications, bring necessary items and a doctor’s note if required. 

​​Culture & Foods

​Culture: Bahrain has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various civilizations. Hospitality is a significant part of local culture. 

​​Foods:
Try local specialties such as:
- Machboos: A spiced rice dish typically served with meat or fish.
- Saffron Rice: Often accompanied by grilled meats.
- Bahraini Falafel: Fried chickpea balls, commonly served in sandwiches.
- Halwa: A sweet dessert made from sugar, cornstarch, and various flavors, often enjoyed with coffee.

​​​Others

By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your business trip to Bahrain. Safe travels! 
Time Zone: GMT +3 
Transport: Extensive road network; taxis and ride-hailing services common; no national rail system.
Climate: Hot and humid in summer (May–September); mild in winter.