Bahrain Kingdom of firsts: it was the capital of Dilmun, the first civilization in the Arabian peninsula, from 2500 bc - 539 bc; Legend recounts that almost 5000 years earlier, Gilgamesh, the epic hero, landed here in search of paradise, where he is said to have found the flower of eternity – the pearl – along the shores of ancient Dilmun, now modern Bahrain! It is not enough simply to imagine the beauty of our beloved Bahrain, the Land of Immortality. The first steps you take will fascinate you as you learn about its history stretching more than 5,000 years ago, when Bahrain was known as Dilmun, Tylos and Awal among ancient civilizations. Oil, also referred to as black gold, was discovered in Bahrain in 1932. This led to Bahrain becoming the first Gulf country to evolve from a transitional hub to a more modern economy. For 40 years, the oil industry made Bahrain a prominent entity, both regionally and internationally, while it also developed a robust, diversified economy. The modern era of Bahrain began in 1783, following the conquering by “Ahmed Al Fateh.” It has been ruled by the Al Khalifa family since that time. Bahrain was declared independent from the United Kingdom on August 15, 1971, and from the British protectorate on December 16 of the same year. Bahrain issued its first constitution in 1973, and the country entered into a trade hub as a modern state, leading merchants and businessmen from all around the world to get involved. Recognize Bahrain’s great leap toward establishing its own constitutional monarchy in 2002 in line with the National Action Charter, designed to achieve constant reformative steps for the prosperity of the country and its people. Make sure to visit Bahrain, “the Great Paradise,” known for its freshwater springs and palm tree fields.

During the summer months, which run from April to October, temperatures range around 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) and can reach 48 degrees Celsius (118.4 degrees Fahrenheit) in June and July. In winter, from November to March, temperatures range between 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) and 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). Discover the appeal of experiencing both times of year in this unique and distinctive destination. With high heat and humidity in summer, Bahrainis, residents and visitors often travel to the beaches in search of cooler breezes and watersports. Winter months are much more moderate, though the humidity can often rise above 90 percent. A strong breeze known as the Shamal wind may blow over Bahrain, while rainy days can be refreshing and relaxing.

Ranked third among Arab states and 55th internationally as the best global destination, Bahrain is a multicultural, multi-ethnic and multi-denominational society, making it a perfect choice for families and individuals who are traveling for business or pleasure. The liberal lifestyle of Bahrain creates an attractive atmosphere as you enjoy its historic monuments and rich history. Begin with a route that takes you to Bahrain’s oldest mosque (Al Khamis Mosque), which dates back to 692 A.D. Then, move from land to water to experience seafaring activities such as sailing, watching dolphins, fishing, scuba diving and kitesurfing. Boost your adrenaline at the most modern Formula One racetrack in the world at the Bahrain International Circuit, home of Formula One. In 2004, Bahrain was the first Middle Eastern country to host a Grand Prix, followed by hosting the opening round of the 2010 season. Bahrain’s geographic location and access to ocean travel have given it broad exposure to international cultures, so it has traditionally been home to a cosmopolitan population that is ethnically and religiously diverse. Your ticket to this country gives you the privilege of experiencing this oasis of mutual tolerance and peaceful coexistence; one that has set a wonderful example among other cultures and religions. Trust us! You don’t want to miss the friendliness and geniality of the Bahraini community.

How do you get to our Bahrain? You will need the proper visa for your visit. Our government has made it easier to visit Bahrain by issuing a new visa policy which states that visitors from 69 countries will be able to receive visas upon arrival in Bahrain. We have also eased the travel experience for you. You can apply for your visa electronically ahead of your arrival in the Kingdom. A total of 209 countries can benefit from E-Visa service and can obtain their visas ahead of traveling through a simple online application process via http://www.evisa.gov.bh/. Check it now! Your country could be there too! You need to know the different types of visas, so you can choose the best one that suits your purpose of visiting Bahrain. Both business visitors and tourists can spend longer periods of time in the Kingdom, as the new policy dictates that visas will be valid for a month and can be renewed for up to three months. Multiple entry visas can also be issued. GCC residents of any nationality will be eligible to receive visas on arrival providing their residency has been valid for three months, making it easier for expats living in the region to travel to Bahrain. The process is so easy that it makes Bahrain an effortless attraction for everyone. Grab your visa and schedule your trip! Extra point! If you want to live and legally work in Bahrain, you will need to apply for different visas and permits provided with all necessary documents to the Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) prior to arrival. The visas are as follows: Work Visa, Residency Permit (Family Visa) and CPR Card (Identification Card) issued by the Central Informatics Organization. Not complicated at all! Apply and spin the wheel of fortune.

Our social convention is similar to any Arab Muslim country, yet we are distinctive in our tolerant attitudes, low cost of living and abundance of educational and health facilities and services. Traditionally, Gulf communities are very welcoming and hospitable. As Bahrainis, we are famous for our special greeting of serving Arabic coffee – poured from a highly decorated pot into a small cup – which is a very important part of the welcoming ritual for any visitor. As a conservative, yet modern country, we proudly embrace our Arabic language, customs and traditions, merging them with Western modernization and reaching out to other wel combined societies from all parts of the world. Keeping our traditions alive, we still practice the pursuits of falconry, horse racing and camel racing, along with modern sports such as basketball, football, wrestling and more. Despite that fact that Arabic is our dominant language, the Bahraini people, residents and visitors also speak and understand many other languages. English is the main business language that is used in governmental and non-governmental entities and is also commonly spoken in retail stores and in many other services. The dress code of Bahrain follows religious and traditional customs, as men tend to wear the white dress “thoub” and a piece of cloth covering the head called “ghitra.” Women usually wear the traditional black garment called “abaya” with a head scarf called “hijab.” You can easily spot this once you reach Bahrain, but you are welcome to wear anything that makes you comfortable and is in compliance with our country’s traditions.