Exchange Opportunities for International Students
About Bahrain
| One sentence info | If we should share a single piece of information about Bahrain, it would be that it consistently ranks among the top 10 countries in the world for expatriate quality of life! |
| Rich History | Bahrain is a home to a cultural legacy dating back to 2000 B.C., Bahrain features three UNESCO World Heritage sites. |
| Strategic Sweet Spot | Conveniently positioned between Europe and Asia, and at the very heart of the Gulf, Bahrain offers easy access to key regional markets and a mix of natural beauty, modern attractions, and major events like Formula One. |
| Economic Diversity | Bahrain’s economy spans oil, aluminum, telecom, and finance, with strategic growth in tech, tourism, and digital innovation. |
| Timeless Blend | The Kingdom blends Arab traditions with modern living, combining vibrant souqs and handicraft markets with contemporary attractions and state-of-the-art architecture. |
| Speak English, Learn Arabic | Bahrain is fully bilingual. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, easing adaptation for international students. At the same time, students are encouraged to learn Arabic, a language of great beauty spoken by over 400 million people worldwide. |
| Safety & Healthcare | The country is known for its exceptional safety and welcoming atmosphere. Also, the country has the most advanced healthcare system in the GCC. |
| Welcoming & Diverse | Bahrain is widely recognised for its welcoming, tolerant society and diverse population, making it one of the most popular and well-regarded countries among expatriates and international residents. |
| Arts & Entertainment | Bahrain’s cultural scene thrives, with the National Theatre hosting international performers and museums spanning ancient to contemporary art. The kingdom’s warm climate allows for year-round events, from Formula 1 races to open-air concerts and cultural festivals. |
Entering the Country
To enter Bahrain, you will need a valid passport and may need to apply for a visa in advance, depending on your nationality. To check if you require a pre-issued visa and to confirm specific entry requirements, contact the Bahraini embassy in your country or the nearest embassy handling your nationality.
Ahlia University provides an official invitation letter to exchange and visiting students, which is required for obtaining the initial visit visa.
Student Visa
Once you receive a letter of acceptance and confirm your arrival, Ahlia will assist you in obtaining the Student Visa. Fees for the visa total approximately 65 BD per semester (150 EUR).
Arriving (Meet & Greet)
Upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport, students are welcomed by Ahlia University staff through a “meet and greet” service, typically available to international students from partner institutions. To arrange this service, please provide the following details as soon as they are available:
- airline name
- flight number
- departure and arrival dates and times
Please fill out this form to provide the necessary information: link to the form.
Accommodation
Ahlia University does not have on-campus dormitories, so it is strongly recommended to begin your housing search before arriving in Bahrain. University staff will assist you upon arrival, and several real estate agencies can support your search.
One popular property portal is www.propertyfinder.bh. Upon request, we can also suggest landlords and housing options that previous exchange students have used and recommended.
Sharing an apartment with a fellow international student can significantly reduce costs and provide companionship during your free time.
Note: Do not pay in advance for any accommodation until you have inspected it in person.
Accommodation Type | Cost |
Studio (Fully Furnished) | 180-300 BD |
Apartment (Fully Furnished, Single Occupancy) | 220-450 BD |
Apartment (Fully Furnished, 2-4 Persons) | 350-750 BD |
Money
Before securing permanent accommodation, you will need to budget for food and book a hotel stay. Almost every shop in Bahrain accepts credit cards. Ensure that your bank is aware of your travels to avoid any issues while using it abroad. Note that most Bahraini banks limit daily cash withdrawals to 500 BD.
The Bahraini dinar (BHD/BD) is the second highest-valued currency unit (after the Kuwaiti dinar), valued at 2.65 US dollars per unit. It is divided into 1000 fils, with common coins being 10, 50, and 100 fils. Banknotes used in Bahrain include 1/2, 1, 5, 10, and 20 dinars.
For accurate and up-to-date exchange rates for 1 EUR, 1 USD or another currency, please consult the official website of the Central Bank of Bahrain.
Numerous major foreign currencies can be exchanged at all banks and numerous authorized exchange offices throughout Bahrain.
Costs of Living
The cost of living in Bahrain is relatively lower compared to many other countries in the region. Monthly expenses can range from 450 to 550 BHD (approximately 1200 to 1400 EUR) per person, depending on individual lifestyle and spending habits.
Here are some approximate prices:
- Airport to Manama: 6 BD
- Public transportation: 0.250 – 0.500 BD per ride or 14 BD for a monthly pass
- Rent a car monthly: 150 BD (Economy Class)
- Taxi/Uber per ride: 1.8 BD – 5.5 BD (for most distances in the urban area)
- Housing: 180 – 350 BD
- Utilities & Internet Bills: 40 BD/month
- Monthly Allowance: 200 BD
- A night at the theatre: 3 BD
- Amusement & Recreation: 50 BD/month
Monthly expenses, depending on your lifestyle, are estimated to range from 450 to 550 BHD per person (approximately 1200 to 1400 EUR).
Health Insurance, Healthcare and Wellbeing
Health Insurance is strongly recommended for all incoming students and staff.
Ahlia University is proudly recognized by the World Health Organization as a Healthy University. In alignment with Bahrain’s commitment to UN SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being, Ahlia University established the Student Counseling & Advising Department to support all enrolled students and empower them to achieve their full potential. The department offers student-centered counseling services, focusing on prevention, intervention, and student development needs.
Cultural Observations
Bahrain is known for its openness and tolerance. Bahraini men and women freely socialise in public spaces, and expatriates regularly interact with locals across a range of social settings. Visitors from across the Gulf come to Bahrain to enjoy its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Women are free to dress as they choose, though modest attire is recommended in public out of cultural respect. Public displays of affection and inappropriate behaviour should be avoided.
While most Muslim Bahrainis do not consume pork or alcohol, pork is available in supermarkets, and alcohol can be purchased in licensed stores, hotels, and restaurants.
Bahrain is considered very safe, with a low crime rate and rare incidents of violent crime. It also upholds religious freedom, with places of worship for various faiths, reflecting its diverse and inclusive society.
Language
The official language of Bahrain is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in business, education, and daily interactions. Most Bahrainis are fluent in both languages, and English is commonly used in signage, public institutions, official documents, and media. With a large expatriate community, other international languages are also frequently heard. This bilingual and multilingual environment helps expatriates and international students adapt more easily to life in Bahrain.
Other Useful Information
- Climate: Bahrain has an arid climate, characterized by hot summers and mild, pleasant winters, with minimal rainfall.
- Time: Bahrain operates on Arabia Standard Time (AST), which is UTC+3, and does not observe daylight saving time.
- Electricity: Voltage: 230 V, Frequency: 50 Hz
Primary socket type: Type G (UK-style electrical socket, used for currents up to 13 A)
- Emergency Numbers:
Police Hotline: 80008008
Directorate of Criminal Information: 992
Fire Department: 997
Emergency: 999
- Important Government Websites:
National Portal – Bahrain.bh
Information & eGovernment Authority
- Instagram Accounts for Updates:
Ahlia University: @ahliauniversitybh
Ministry of Education Bahrain: @moebahrain
Higher Education Council: @hec.bah
News of Bahrain: @newsofbahrain
Local Bahrain: @localbh
Experience Bahrain: @experiencebahrain.bh
Bahrain This Month: @bahrainthismonth
Culture Bahrain: @culturebah
Spring of Culture: @springofculture
Al Riwaq Art Space: @alriwaq
Al Riwaq Art Cafe: @alriwaqcafe
- Campus Location: You can find the GOSI campus location on Google Maps.
- Downloads: For more detailed information and downloads, please visit Ahlia University Downloads.
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Connect With Us
Directorate of International Relations
- +973 17 29 8999 Ext. 8900
- [email protected]
- GOSI Complex 1st Floor, Office 1F-11
- Sunday to Thursday - 10 AM to 5 PM
Ahlia University
- +973 17 29 8999
- [email protected]
- Bld 41, Rd 18, Al-Hoora 310 Gosi Complex, Exhibition Road
- Sunday to Thursday - 8 AM to 5 PM
