About Bahrain
| 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 has a rich cultural history that can be traced back to 2000 B.C., with three historic UNESCO World Heritage sites. |
| Strategic Sweet Spot | Bahrain is located between Europe and Asia, at the center of the Arabian Gulf. Its proximity to regional economic powerhouses makes it an ideal entry point into the GCC. Bahrain boasts beautiful landscapes, a Formula One circuit, shopping centers, and stunning sunsets. |
| Economic Diversity | Bahrain’s economy is driven by diverse industries, including oil and gas, aluminum production, telecommunications, and financial services. The kingdom continues to expand its economic base, with significant investments in technology, tourism, and digital transformation. |
| Timeless Blend | Bahrain offers a unique fusion of Arab traditions and modern lifestyles. The kingdom seamlessly combines traditional souqs, handicraft markets, and cultural experiences with contemporary attractions and state-of-the-art infrastructure. |
| Speak English, Learn Arabic | English is widely spoken in Bahrain, making it easier for international students to adapt. At the same time, students can learn Arabic, a widely spoken language of great beauty. Immersing yourself in Bahraini culture is a fantastic way to learn Arabic! |
| Safety & Healthcare | Bahrain is known for its safety, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere for international students. The country also boasts one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the region, ensuring students have access to quality medical care. Bahrain has more medical staff per person than any other country in the GCC. Its healthcare system includes 4 state-sponsored hospitals, 14 private institutions, and many clinics and maternity hospitals. |
| Welcoming & Diverse | Bahrain offers a welcoming atmosphere with a low crime rate, making it an attractive destination for international students. The country also boasts one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the region, ensuring access to quality medical care. |
| 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 the Kingdom, you will need a valid passport and may require a pre-issued visa (as opposed to a visa on arrival). To determine whether your nationality requires a pre-application for a Bahraini visa and to learn about the specific requirements, please contact the Bahraini embassy in your country or the nearest embassy responsible for your nationality.
Ahlia University issues an invitation letter to exchange and visiting students, which is necessary for applying for an initial visit visa.
Student Visa
These are the documents required to enter and stay in Bahrain as a student.
Once you arrive, Ahlia will assist you in obtaining the following mandatory documents:
- NOC (No Objection Certificate)
- Student Visa
- Residency Permit
- National ID
Application fees for these documents total approximately 150 BD, payable before the end of the first month of study.
Arriving (Meet & Greet)
Upon arrival at Bahrain National Airport, students are welcomed by university staff with a “meet and greet” service, typically available for international students arriving through partner institutions. To avail of this service, students must provide the university with the following details when 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’s campus does not include dormitories, so it is highly advised that you begin searching for accommodation before arriving in Bahrain. University staff will assist you in finding suitable housing upon your arrival, and several real estate agencies can also help.
One of the most popular real estate portals is www.propertyfinder.bh. If you prefer living near the current campus, it is located in Hoora on Exhibition Road. The new campus, which will open in January 2026, is located on Salman City Island.
Sharing an apartment with a fellow international student can 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. Off-campus accommodations, ranging from studio apartments to villas, are available near the university and throughout Bahrain.
| Accommodation Options | 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 opening a bank-account and securing permanent accommodation, you will need to budget for food and book a hotel stay. Almost every shop in Bahrain accepts credit cards, and financial applications such as Benefit Pay are also popular. However, ensure that your bank is aware of your travel plans to avoid any issues while using your card abroad. Note that most Bahraini banks limit daily cash withdrawals to 500 BD.
The Bahraini dinar (BHD) is the second highest-valued currency unit, valued at 2.65 US dollars per unit (after the Kuwaiti dinar). 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 rides: 1.8 BD – 5.5 BD (for most distances in the urban area)
- Rent: 180 – 350 BD
- Utilities & Internet Bills: 40 BD/month
- Monthly Allowance: 200 BD
- McDonald’s Meal: 1.5 BD (food from local cafeterias can be even cheaper)
- Shawarma: 0.300 BD
- Food: 150 BD/month
- A night at the theatre: 3 BDA night at the theatre: 3 BD
- Amusement & Recreation: 50 BD/month
Total: 450 to 550 BD. The overall monthly living expenses depend on personal choices and lifestyle but typically fall within this range.
Health Insurance, Healthcare and Wellbeing
We provide health insurance for all exchange students, both on and off campus.
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 Counseling 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 within the Gulf region. Bahraini men and women socialize freely at local cafes and restaurants, and expatriates interact with Bahrainis across various social settings. People from all over the Gulf visit Bahrain to relax and enjoy its welcoming atmosphere. While women are free to dress as they wish, it is polite to dress modestly in public and respect local cultural norms, including avoiding public displays of intimacy and other inappropriate behavior. Although Muslim Bahrainis generally do not consume pork or alcohol, pork is sold in supermarkets, and alcohol can be purchased from licensed stores and is available in hotels and restaurants. Bahrain is a very safe country, with an extremely low crime rate and rare instances of violent crime.
Bahrain also offers religious freedom, with places of worship available for various faiths, reflecting the country’s diverse and inclusive environment.
Language
The official language of Bahrain is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in business, education, and daily interactions. Many Bahrainis are fluent in both languages, and English is often used in signs, official documents, and media. Due to the large expatriate community, other international languages are also commonly heard. This bilingual and multilingual environment makes it easier for expatriates and international students to adapt 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:
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
Expat Bahrain: @expatbh
Experience Bahrain: @experiencebahrain.bh
Bahrain This Month: @bahrainthismonth
Culture Bahrain: @culturebah
Spring of Culture: @springofculture
Emanuels art center
- Campus Location: You can find the GOSI campus location on Google Maps.
Downloads: For more detailed information and downloads, please visit Ahlia University Downloads.
Table of Contents
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
