TimeGMT +3. ElectricityElectrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz except in Awali
where it is 110 volts AC, 60Hz. Bahrain uses UK style 3-pin power
outlets. LanguageArabic is the official language, although English is
widely understood and is used by most businesses. HealthReports have been confirmed of human cases of Swine Flu in
Bahrain. No vaccinations are required for visitors to Bahrain, but
a hepatitis A vaccination is recommended. Medical facilities are
good in the main cities, but health insurance is recommended
because visitors must pay for treatment. There are many
well-stocked pharmacies in the country. Water is deemed clean and
safe by the authorities, but visitors usually prefer to drink
bottled water, which is widely available. TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a service charge of 10-15%
to their bills. However, you may leave a tip at your discretion.
Taxi drivers expect a 10% tip and porters will be happy with about
100 fils per item of baggage. SafetyAlthough the crime rate in Bahrain is relatively low,
visitors should be fully aware that along with other states in the
Gulf region, the country is rated as high risk for indiscriminate
terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda on Western interests. Visitors are
advised to be vigilant at all times particularly in public
places. CustomsAlthough it is a liberal state, Bahrain is an Islamic
country and many locals find scanty clothing and immoderate public
behaviour offensive. Visitors should dress and act respectfully.
Religious and social sensitivities should be observed and
respected, especially during religious festivals. Foreigners are
not expected to fast during the holy month of Ramadan, but it is
considered extremely inconsiderate to eat, drink or smoke in public
during this time. Homosexuality is illegal. BusinessBahrain is generally more liberal than its Arab
neighbours, but businesswomen should nevertheless ensure that they
wear conservative clothing and men are expected to wear smart suits
and ties. Bahrainis prefer to do business with those whom they have
a personal relationship with so a letter of introduction from
someone they know is appreciated. English is used as the language
of business, but expect prolonged small talk and personal enquiries
before sitting down to do business, as building a trustworthy
relationship is important; greetings, using titles, are also
important. Impatience has no place, so plenty of time should be
allowed for decision-making. For meetings, punctuality is important
and business cards are routinely handed out to everyone, using both
hands and preferably with the Arabic translation on the back of the
card face up. It is important to study a received card for a while
before putting it away. Business hours are Sunday to Thursday 7am
to 2pm. Most businesses take a break in the afternoon between 1pm
and 3pm, but are open later in the evening. During the holy month
of Ramadan working hours are reduced. CoummnicationThe international direct dialling code for Bahrain
is +973, and the outgoing code 00 followed by the relevant country
code (eg. 0044 for the United Kingdom). There are no city or area
codes. Public phone booths are easily located, some accepting
freely available phone cards and some coins. The country is covered
by a GSM 900 and 1800 mobile phone network. There are several
Internet service providers and Internet is available at most of the
larger hotels in Manama.
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