Bahrain

Population: 600,000

Capital: Manama (pop 175,000)

Head of State: King Hamad bin Isa bin Salman al-Khalifa

Currency: Bahraini dinar (BD), 1BD =1000fils, 1$ = .377 BD

Local Time: GMT + 3 hours

Religion: Muslim (70%), Sunni Muslim (15%), other religions (15%)

Climate
 It can get extremely hot and humid in Bahrain from June to September, with high temperatures averaging 36°C (97°F) during the day and virtually no rain in these months. November to March tends to be much more pleasant, with warm days and cool nights and temperatures remaining around 18ºC (65ºF).

The only island-state in the Arab world, Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands. Bahrain Island, the main island from which the country took its name, is connected to Saudi Arabia by a causeway and lies in the Persian Gulf about halfway between Saudi Arabia (to the west) and Qatar (to the east). Bahrain Island is the largest of the archipelago, around 50km (30miles) north to south and 16km (10miles) east to west and another causeway links Bahrain with Al Muharraq, the second largest island in the group. The main island is fairly flat, with Jabal Ad-Dukhan, the highest point, only 130m (426ft) above sea level. Most development is concentrated on the northern third of the island.

Arabic is the official language of Bahrain. Farsi and Urdu are also spoken and English is widely used in business circles.

Visa Requirements. 
Visitors from GCC countries do not require visas for stays of up to 30 days. Visas can be issued on arrival for most nationalities, and are valid for either 72 hours or one week, with possible extensions. Some nationalities may obtain a multiple-entry visa from a Bahrain embassy/consulate prior to arrival.Employers wishing to employ non-Bahraini workers must apply to the Directorate of Labour. Applications are generally accepted if foreign workers do not compete with the Bahraini workforce and priority is given to citizens of Arab countries. Work permits are generally valid for two years and can be renewed. It should not be assumed however that Bahrain visas will necessarily be issued for the spouse and children of the worker.

Local Laws & Customs
Bahrain is a Muslim state and Islamic customs are observed. Formal clothing should be worn in public places and in general the body should be fully covered. Suits and ties should be worn to business appointments. Swimwear should be worn only at hotel pools and on the beach, and shorts should only be worn when playing sports.

Driving Licenses
Driving Licenses are issued on personal application to the Bahrain Traffic & Licensing Directorate. International Driving Licenses are permitted but should be endorsed by the Directorate before use. Licences issued by UK, USA and other authorities may exclude the applicant from taking another driving test.