Bahrain
is an archipelago of 33 Islands, with the total
land area of excess 700 sq.kms. The Country
has one of the lowest allevations in the world;
its highest point reaches a mere a 130m. Its
name is derived from the two arabic words "thnain
Bahr" meaning "two seas" and
refers to the phenomenon of sweet water springs
under the sea which mingle with the salty water.
This phenomenon is believed to be responsible
for the unusual luster of Bahrain's natural
pearls, the country's major economy before the
advent of oil. Bahrain is sometime refred to
as the Switzerland of Middle East,because of
its many banks and financial centers.
The
Kingdom of Bahrain now a constitutional monarchy
has a democratically elected parliament and
a Shura council with legislative powers equal
to those of parliament.
Bahrain, while maintaining its traditional values
has long been reputed for its relatively liberal
and modern policies making it a strong favourite
with travelers in and to the region. With a
diversified economy, Bahrain the financial capital
of the Arabian Gulf also prides itself to be
the best in the region in education, health
systems, public services, telecommunications
and aviation.
Bahrain with its prominent location in the Arabian
Gulf has the best of air connections to and
from major world destinations served by a wide
variety of regional and international airlines.
With a harmonious blend of nationalities and
cultures along with the most friendliest, helpful
and approachable nationals in the region, Bahrain
fittingly is ‘The Island Of Golden Smiles”.
| Land
area |
 |
716
sq. km. |
| Population |
|
677,886
(2004 est.) ( 63% Bahraini, 37% Expatriate
incl GCC) |
| Religion |
|
85%
of Bahraini society practice Islam. Other
religions and
indigenous beliefs are openly practiced.
|
| Lauguage |
|
Arabic
is the official language, however English
is the
business language, widely spoken and understood. |
| Head
of State |
|
King
Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa |
| Head
of Government |
|
Prime
Minister – Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman
Al Khalifa |
| Major
Industries |
|
Petroleum
processing and refining, aluminum smelting,
offshore banking, tourism. |
Traveler Information
Shopping
hours
Normally Staurday to Thursday 08:30 –
12:30 and 15:30 to 19:30 hours. Major malls
are open from 10:00 to 22:00 hours, all days
of the week. Some shops remain open on Fridays
and work extended hours. It is not sot surprising
to find some supermarkets and cold stores open
round the clock.
Climate
Between November and March the climate is pleasant
with temperatures ranging between 20 and 30
degrees centigrade. Most rainfall occurs during
the month of December, February and March. High
humidity is present in Bahrain throughout the
year. June, July and August temperatures can
reach as high as 44 degrees centigrade in the
middle of the day with humidity as high as 98
percent.
Smoking
No widespread restrictions however, some government
offices, public places and restaurants may restrict.
Smoking in all public areas is strictly prohibited
during the holy fasting month of Ramadan.
Eating and drinking
Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited
from consumption in open public areas. During
the holy fasting month of Ramadan, eating and
drinking in public areas is strictly prohibited.
Driving
under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited
and Penalties range from jail and/or fine of
BHD 500 upwards.
Currency
Bahrain Dinar (BHD)
BHD 1 = 1000 fils
BHD 1 = approx US$ 2.65
Currency can be changed at the airport, hotels,
banks and money exchange houses.
Exchange rates may vary but generally rates
at money exchange houses are better.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, American
Express, Diner’s Club) are widely accepted
in hotels, department stores, shops and restaurants.
Car Rental : Renting a hired car is the best
way of getting around Bahrain. A full range
of car models are offered by numerous hire companies
in Bahrain.
Local Taxis
Taxis driven by local nationals are readily
available in Manama, but may be less frequent
outside Manama. All local taxis in Bahrain have
meters, but you may find drivers reluctant to
use them. Always agree on a price for any journey
and never allow the price to be changed or re-negotiated.
Fares are 800 fils for the first 1.5 km and
then 100 fils for every additional km. Between
22:00 and 06:00 hours, fares are BHD 1.200 for
the first km and 150 fils for every additional
km there after. There is an additional charge
of BHD 1.000 if you are hiring a taxi from the
airport. Taxis flagged down outside a hotel
will be more expensive that if you were to flag
it down in the street.
Radio Taxis :
Radio taxis are available by pre-booking and
strictly go by the meter, though little higher
than normal local taxis, they are a hassle free
way to travel. Fare Receipts can also be obtained
on request. Speedy Motors : 17682999; Bahrain
Limo : 80001999 (toll free in Bahrain)
Visa Regulations :
All visitors to Bahrain must hold a valid passport
without endorsement or restrictions for the
country.
Visas are not required
: Citizens of Kuwait, Qatar, Oman,
Saudi Arabia and UAE.
Visas required:
Citizens of all countries not mentioned
above. Visas may be obtained through Bahrain
overseas embassies.
Transit visas:
72 hours/7 days visas can be obtained at the
Bahrain International Airport on arrival for
non-restricted countries.
Please click on Bahrain Immigration in USEFUL
LINKS for detailed information on visa eligibility
and requirements.
|
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