Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands in the Persian (Arabian) Gulf, off the coast of Saudi Arabia and extending to the Qatar Peninsula. The capital city of Manama is on the largest island from which the nation takes its name. The King Fahd Causeway spans the 25-km (15-mile) distance between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, the only overland route on the Arab Peninsula.
For centuries, Bahrain was renowned for its pearl cultivation; today it is one of the world's major oil producers and is a key member of OPEC. It is a modern nation with skyscrapers and one of the more liberal Arab countries, with nightclubs and alcoholic drinks. Old world charm can still be found in the souk in the center of old town.
The weather in summer is very hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 44 C (111 F) and higher. Annual rainfall is less than 100 millimeters (four inches) a year, most of which falls during the winter. Average temperature between December and April is 10-20 C (50-68 F).
Arabic is the official language, though English is widely spoken, especially in the business community and in the hotels throughout Bahrain. The country has a very high percentage of expatriate workers (more than 40 percent) from Asia, Iran and other Arab nations. It is not uncommon to hear a variety of languages spoken on the streets.
Islam is the predominant religion accounting for 85 percent of the population. Other religions include Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism and Zoroastrianism.
On Feb. 14, 2002, the Amir of Bahrain proclaimed Bahrain a kingdom and himself king. He announced the restoration of parliament and the establishment of a constitutional court. Prior to this, Bahrain was a traditional Arab monarchy (hereditary emirate). The Al-Khalifa dynasty is the ruling family.
Telecommunications systems in Bahrain are state of the art. Coin-operated and card-operated public phones are prevalent. The main telecommunications center in Manama offers fax and international calling, as do most major hotels. A GSM 900 cellular communications network offers blanket coverage of Bahrain.
Taxis are a convenient means of transport from the international airport in Muharraq to hotels. For short trips, make sure the taxi meter is on, otherwise you may end up paying an extraordinary fare. Most hotels offer shuttle service from the airport. Limousine service is available from the airport for BHD 5. You can also negotiate to hire a taxi by the hour or day. Car rental is also available, but be sure to have an International Driving Permit. Urban roads are well maintained; rural areas are narrow and twisting. Numerous airlines offer flights to and from the region with direct flights from most western capitals.
Violent crime in Bahrain is rare and the overall crime rate is low. Crime directed at foreigners is usually limited to petty theft and pickpocketing. Travel to the old market (souk) warrants extra caution against petty crime. Anti-Western sentiment throughout the Middle East requires Westerners to be aware of surroundings at all times.
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