When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Bahrain?
For racing fans, the Bahrain Grand Prix takes place in April. Bahrain also has an interesting arts scene; the kingdom hosts the Art Bahrain, a famous international art fair, in October. Temperatures can be extremely high in the summer months of May to September, but from October to March, the Gulf winter temperatures are much more pleasant. It’s possible to find cheap return flights to Bahrain all year, though August, November and December are the most expensive times to visit Bahrain.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Bahrain?
It’s best to book at least five weeks before your departure date to find the lowest prices on return flights to Bahrain. If you’re travelling for a specific event, you should book even earlier, ideally two or three months in advance. Many major airlines fly to Bahrain, and since it’s a popular business route, too, it’s possible to find cheap fares and last-minute deals all year. While direct flights are convenient, it’s worth considering indirect routes as having a stopover could save you money.
Flying to Bahrain International Airport BAH
Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is on Muharraq Island, located seven miles (12 kilometres) from the capital city of Manama. BAH is a major airport for the Middle East, operating and connecting international flights worldwide as well as within the region. Furthermore, it serves as the hub airport of Gulf Air.
British Airways and Gulf Air both operate direct flights to Bahrain from London Heathrow. You can also fly to Bahrain from most major UK airports, including London Stansted, Newcastle and Manchester. Emirates, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, Jet Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, Oman Air, Pegasus Airlines, Qantas Airways and Turkish Airlines also operate indirect flights to Bahrain with connections in places like Dubai and Istanbul.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Bahrain International Airport has two levels. Customs and transit areas are on Level 2, while cafes, shops and baggage reclaim can be found on Level 1. The airport offers plenty of amenities and services to travellers: Wi-Fi, baby care rooms, prayer rooms and a wide range of shops and restaurants. It also has business and first-class lounges.
Getting to the City from Bahrain International Airport BAH
Bahrain Airport is connected by a causeway to the main island. You can either hire a car or take a taxi to the city when you arrive. Car hire companies are located in the arrivals hall on Level 1, while taxis can be found just outside the exit on the right-hand side as you leave the building. Taxis charge by the meter in Bahrain, and a ride to the city should take around 20 minutes.
Why Visit Bahrain?
From ancient temples and burial grounds to a world-class racing circuit and glossy shopping malls, Bahrain is an alluring destination for British travellers on business or leisure. Bahrain’s history as a crossroads for trade dates back to ancient times, and you can visit a number of important archaeological sites, including Qalat al-Bahrain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the fort for the former capital of Dilmun. For a glimpse of the kingdom’s artistic life, head to some of Bahrain’s traditional houses, such as the Ibrahim Al Arrayad House for Poetry or Kurar House, devoted to the unique Bahraini art of gold-thread embroidery.
For a day out of the city, try pearl diving. Bahrain’s waters are home to highly prized natural pearls, so take a scuba tour if you want to hunt for your own. Finally, get behind the wheel at Bahrain’s state-of-the-art Formula 1 racetrack if you dare; choose from go-karting, dragster racing or taking a Land Rover off-road and into the desert.
Bahrain Visa Requirements
Before you fly, check the latest entry requirements with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain. British nationals can get a visa on arrival, but to ensure a smooth arrival, it’s best to get one in advance. You can apply for a visa online or from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the UK. You should also check that your passport will be valid for a minimum of six months from your date of arrival. The local currency is the Bahraini dinar.
