Bahrain has a rich cultural history the can be traced back to 2000 B.C, with two historic UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the iconic Manama market which houses some of the first goldsmith and pearl shops in the country.
Bahrain is considered one of the healthiest countries in the Gulf with one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the region. There is more medical staff per person in Bahrain than any other country in the G.C.C. The country’s healthcare system includes 4 state-sponsored hospitals, 14 private institutions, and a large number of clinics and maternity hospitals.
Ahlia’s campus does not include dormitories. It is therefore highly advised that you start looking for accommodation before arriving in Bahrain. To ease your transition into the country, university staff will help you find suitable accommodation upon arrival. There are also several real estate agencies that can help you find a place to stay. Sharing an apartment with a fellow international student can help reduce costs while ensuring companionship during your free time.
Note: do not pay in advance for any accommodation until you have inspected it in person.
The cost of living in Bahrain is quite low when compared to other countries in the region. For instance, when you first arrive in Bahrain, a taxi trip from the airport to the capital Manama will cost you around 6BD, while travelling around the country using the extensive bus system will cost only around 0.250 BD per trip. A fast-food meal from an international franchise such as McDonald’s will cost just around 1.5BD, while food from local cafeterias can be even cheaper. Enjoying a night at the theatre with friends will cost you around 3 BD.
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Accommodation | 200-300BD/Month |
| Utilities & Internet Bills | 40BD/Month |
| Public Transportation (Monthly Pass) | 14BD/Month |
| Food | 150BD/Month |
| Amusement & Recreation | 50BD/Month |
| Total | BD. 454 – BD. 545/Month |
Fast Facts: Bahrain
Official name: The Kingdom of Bahrain
Geography: island located in the Arabian Gulf between the Qatar Peninsula and northeastern coast of Saudi Arabia
Capital: Manama
Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD) – the second-highest valued currency in the world with an exchange rate of 1BHD=2.65USD
Population: over 1,400,000 (2017)
Languages: Arabic is the official language and English is commonly spoken outside work and in all retail stores and services along with Urdu
“The 2016 Expat Explorer Survey, commissioned by the HSBC Expat,
ranked Bahrain the 9th best place in the world to be an expatriate.”
