This group of 70 islands (50 natural, 33 manmade) in the Persian Gulf has made the top 10 for disaster preparedness.
The safest cities in Bahrain have neighborhoods that ex-pats normally would settle in.
As far as travel advisories, it’s not as bad in Bahrain as in other countries, in that you can at least still travel here without so many restrictions.
It’s important to know what you’re getting into though.
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10 Safest Cities in Bahrain
I got confused by the reports I read about Bahrain.
It apparently is one of the safest in the world for preparing against natural disasters.
What natural disasters, I don’t know.
I am aware of droughts and dust storms, but only 2% of tropical storms (tsunamis) may happen in 50 years’ time.
Aside from that, the areas you could stay in and feel safe are also the most expensive.
That doesn’t surprise me.
By the way, I didn’t find safety index numbers for some of the smaller communities, but many of them do have secure accommodations in them.
1. Manama
Manama has a safety index of about 54, which is average.
It’s not nearly as high as, say Vancouver, Canada, with 82 to give you an idea of how safe or dangerous it is.
As far as major metro areas, however, Manama is as safe as can be expected.
It’s the largest capital city of Bahrain and has a 2022 population totaling approximately 689,000 people.
One reason to visit here is to see the Dilmun civilization exhibit at the Bahrain National Museum.
You also may want to see the Al Fatah Grand Mosque and view the Beit Al Quran (a museum).
The Beit has ancient Quran manuscripts on its grounds.
2. Hamala
Hamala does have some villas near the Hamala Hills Mall.
As long as you stick to one of these residences, you should be fine.
Of course, they’re pricier than if you were to live in some of the less affluent neighborhoods.
If you decide to spend long periods working in Saudi, you can dwell in Hamala.
This area is not for poor people, not that I know of.
Of course, your number one concern here probably would be making sure you don’t get robbed if you have money.
You’re not necessarily immune to experiencing violent crimes though.
3. Amwaj Islands
I haven’t found any numerical crime data for Amwaj.
All I know is that it’s one more spot recommended to ex-pats who plan to make this a long-term residence.
It’s an expensive place to live but offers high-security dwellings.
It also has waterfront resorts and nearby outdoor recreational activities.
It’s on the eastern shore of Bahrain.
4. Tala Island
Like most gated communities, Tala Island has a level of safety only available to the people who can afford it.
I’m starting to feel a little jealous of people who can pay for this.
Tala Island has luxury apartments and villas on it with boardwalks, tennis and squash courts, and playgrounds.
There are also restaurants and a supermarket nearby.
You should still pay attention to your surroundings, however.
It’s commonplace for tourists visiting for the first time to be taken aback by scams.
Don’t be fooled by crooks when you arrive.
5. SEEF
Seef has more of a business district feel than other safe Bahrain locations.
It contains some of the largest shopping centers in the country.
High-rise hotels seem to be the trend here too.
On the other hand, Seef does have its share of beaches.
One safety issue to beware of is traffic congestion which could cause accidents, especially during rush hour.
6. Juffair
Juffair offers a moderate level of safety, at least for the cost of living here.
It features bars, restaurants, cafes, and several historical sites, such as the Al Fateh Mosque and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs site.
By the way, Juffair is actually a Manama neighborhood, not a city.
It’s worth mentioning in case you’re looking for the safest places to go in this area.
7. Reef Island
If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, you may enjoy Reef Island.
The impression I get is that you can have safety if you’re willing to front the cost of it.
This cosmopolitan city does sometimes have the usual tourist scams though.
If you plan to live here long-term, you might pay high prices for secure apartments.
One area you might feel safe is near the Avenues Mall.
Beware of pickpocketing and other tourist crimes though.
8. Adliya
Adliya, a Manama neighborhood, has an urban atmosphere that may cater to the artistic crowd.
You can enjoy international cuisine and shop at local boutiques, and there are galleries here.
You can walk everywhere you need to go here, but be careful of mugging or pickpocketing.
I don’t know how common crimes are here, by the way.
I say use common sense either way and don’t be naive when talking to strangers.
9. Riffa Views
Any place that has an 18-hole golf course can’t be that bad, can it?
This place has the Royal Golf Club.
I don’t know how safe this area is.
I assume it is as safe as most popular tourist destinations can be.
I haven’t seen any reports of any violent outbreaks in Bahrain as a whole, so you should be fine.
Some of the more secure accommodations or apartments may cost you more if you want to stay protected.
10. Saar
You’ll find Saar in western Bahrain near the King Fahad Causeway (a major roadway).
It’s about 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) from Manama, so you can ideally visit both places on the same day.
Being so near Saudi Arabia, an area of high conflict, you may need to stay extra cautious in Saar.
There’s usually safety in numbers though.
If visiting, sign up for guided tours and beware when walking or talking in unfamiliar areas to people you don’t know.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Bahrain
The safety tips I offer are the same for most places you go to.
Bahrain is not an exception.
It has reports of higher safety ratings though.
It’s at least only a Level 2 “exercise extreme caution” rather than Level 3 or 4 as indicated by the U.S. Department of State.
1. Watch your back.
It doesn’t matter where you go in the world.
Make sure you always watch your back.
Learn about the neighborhoods you enter and avoid suspicious-looking people.
2. Beware of possible terrorism.
You might not have to worry as much in Bahrain as in Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, or another country.
However, terrorism may still occur here.
Unfortunately, places, where terrorist activity occurs the most, are at major transportation hubs, such as bus, train or plane stops.
3. Follow the tour guide’s instructions.
Tour guide instructions may not always pertain to violence.
Sometimes old buildings collapse, for instance.
If you’re told to “keep out” or “don’t touch,” then don’t do it.
You could injure yourself and others if you don’t follow instructions.
4. There’s no need to show off your money.
Especially in a day and age with all the different ways to pay, you don’t need to flash wads of cash out in public.
On the other hand, be careful when you pay with your mobile phone.
If you have an expensive phone, someone may follow you just to steal it.
I don’t want you to feel paranoid, but you never know. Just stay safe.
Contrary to popular belief, social distancing doesn’t just prevent infectious diseases.
It also makes you less susceptible to violent attacks.
In this case, avoid eye contact with people who might stare at you too long.
Bahrain Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Bahrain Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: HIGH
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
Are taxis safe in Bahrain?
You should only take taxis you know are properly registered.
If in doubt, don’t use this mode of transportation, especially not alone.
Can you walk around in Bahrain?
The safety index is higher here than in some other Middle Eastern, African and Asian countries.
Don’t take that for granted, however.
Stay on guard, particularly against petty theft, and don’t go anywhere alone at night if you don’t have to.
What areas should you avoid in Bahrain?
Watch for reports by the U.S. Embassy to help you find out where not to go.
It’s also important to find out the latest in Covid-19 updates, or for any potentially contagious disease for that matter.
The Embassy offers several links on its website with safety information.
Having lived in one of the cities listed as the safest in Bahrain, I can attest to the accuracy of the ranking. The sense of security is palpable, with well-lit streets, visible law enforcement, and a generally peaceful atmosphere. It’s a reassuring feeling for residents and visitors alike.
After spending a considerable amount of time in Bahrain, I can vouch for the credibility of the list highlighting the safest cities. The low crime rates and the proactive measures taken by local authorities contribute to a secure environment, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life without constant safety concerns.