The Kingdom of Bahrain may be a small country, but each area of the island has its own very distinctive character. The entire country covers an area of only 706 sq km. Bahrain is home to more than 600,000 people, about 30% non-Bahraini immigrants. Manama, Bahrain's capital, is an extremely cosmopolitan city. Although Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken.

Climate

Weather from June to September is hot and humid (36°C - 45°C) and from October to May is mild and cool (10°C - 25°C). Humidity is high all the year round. Can get rather chilly and windy towards the end of the year - then, sweaters are recommended.

Time

The Kingdom of Bahrain is three hours ahead of Greenwich time. There is no change of time in the summer.

Electricity

The supply is 230 volts, 50 cycles, using three-pin, and UK-style plugs.

Currency

The Bahrain Dinar is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of US$1 = BD 0.378.

Departure Tax

When you leave Bahrain, a departure tax of BD3, known as "passenger service fee" is payable at the airport.

Tourist Attractions

Bahrain National Museum, Currency Museum, Bait Al Qur'an, Qala'at Arad (Fort), Bahrain Fort, Jebel Al Dukhan, The Tree of Life, and Al-Areen Wildlife Park.