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Living in Bahrain

Ahlia University

With a multi-cultural society, low cost of living, excellent education facilities, and high-quality healthcare, Bahrain is an attractive destination for international students and expatriates. This is evident by the many international expat surveys in which Bahrain has consistently ranked amongst the top 10 best countries in the World for expatriate quality of life.

The Kingdom is a holiday destination on your doorstep, boasting an archipelago of 33 natural islands, a cosmopolitan capital city, an attractive liberal lifestyle, and a rich history and culture: from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilisation, dating back to 2300 BC, at the Bahrain Fort, to one of the most modern Formula One racetracks in the world at the Bahrain International Circuit.

At sea, you can sail, dolphin watch, fish, scuba dive, or kite surf. On land, there are gyms, horse riding stables, and sports clubs, including rugby, tennis, soccer, cricket, and basketball clubs.

AU welcomes students from all parts of the world with our first-class educational facilities! With a warm and sunny climate, hundreds of cafes and restaurants, fantastic shopping centres, and some of the friendliest people in the world, Bahrain welcomes you too!

Cultural Attractions

With a multi-cultural society, low cost of living, excellent education facilities, and high-quality healthcare, Bahrain is an attractive destination for international students and expatriates. Bahrain has a rich cultural history that can be traced back to 2,000 BC, so you will have no shortage of historical sites to visit! This is evident by the many international expat surveys in which Bahrain has consistently ranked amongst the top 10 best countries in the World for expatriate quality of life.

The island is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities

The Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities has a great website for you to get acquainted with Bahrain, its history and culture. The website includes a “Top Ten Must-Dos” list, to get acquainted with the country.

Bahrain National Museum

A good place to start is the National Museum, which gives an overview of the history of Bahrain, and is the perfect way to learn about the island’s heritage. The museum is located within walking distance (approximately 10 minutes on foot) from the university campus.

Bahrain Fort

One of Bahrain’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Bahrain Fort is the largest of several forts located around the island. Archeological excavations at the fort have uncovered historical pieces that date back to 3,000 years ago and include artifacts from the Persians, Portuguese, and other settlers. Make sure you visit the Bahrain Fort Museum located nearby to make most of the trip. The location is also a great place to enjoy the pleasant winter weather.

Beit Al Quran

The museum is one of the most renowned Islamic museums in the world, with an extensive collection of Islamic manuscripts from all around the world, ranging from the Far East to Southern Europe. Beit Al Quran is an extremely short walk away (approximately 5 minutes) from the university campus, and offers a great introduction to Bahrain’s Islamic history.

Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain is the entrance to Bahrain’s traditional market (souq) and is a national landmark. The Manama market houses some of the first goldsmith and pearl jewelry shops in Bahrain, which was a thriving industry historically because of the country’s strategic location. The market is your best bet if you are in search of souvenirs to take back home.

Bahrain International Circuit - Bahrain Grand Prix

The Bahrain Grand Prix is usually held in the month of April, and is an important national and international event that is anticipated globally. If you have never seen a motorsport event, this is surely your opportunity to take part in an unforgettable experience. The BIC also has a karting track for you to try out your racing skills.

Visit bahrain.com for more information.

Accomodation

Bahrain has a lot to offer in the way of accommodation options. Whether you are looking to live in a skyscraper, or rent a villa in an expat compound away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the choice is plentiful, and the choice is yours.

The price of a fully furnished apartment with two bedrooms and bathrooms will typically range from BD 300-700. A studio apartment for a single person may cost as little as BD 250. These accommodation options usually include building security and utilities, and may contain a common swimming pool and gym.

Telecommunications

Bahrain has a sophisticated mobile telecommunications industry. Mobile lines in Bahrain are relatively cheap. According to a recent study commissioned by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Bahrain enjoys some of the lowest telecom prices in the region. A wide variety of options are available, catering to every need.

Health & Fiteness

Bahrain is considered one of the healthiest countries in the Gulf, with one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the wider region. There is more medical staff (doctors, nurses and dentists) per person in Bahrain than any other country in the GCC. The country’s healthcare system includes four state-sponsored hospitals, more than 12 private institutions and a large number of clinics and maternity hospitals. Expatriates may access Bahrain’s public healthcare system, for emergency services and specialist procedures, with a Population Registration Card (CPR) at a nominal fee or charge.

Fitness

Body building is a popular activity in Bahrain. You will be spoiled for options when looking for gyms, and other similar health clubs. One of Bahrain’s most popular gyms, Al Gosaibi Gym, is located down the road from the campus, with several smaller gyms in the area as well. Fitness First is another international chain which is located within walking distance of the university campus, approximately 15-minutes away on foot. Make sure you consider your needs from a gym before registering in one, to avoid unnecessary costs. There are several CrossFit circuits and many martial arts institutions if you wish train in one.

Places of Worship

Being a Muslim country, Muslim students will easily find a mosque in their area of residence. There are prayer-rooms located in the university campus by the Theatre.

Bahrain has a large number of registered Christian churches of different denominations. Services are celebrated a number of times during the week, and are conducted in different languages including Arabic, English, French, and Hindi. Most of these churches are located in the Capital District in Manama, making them conveniently close to the university campus. The most prominent churches are:

 

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