Bahrain International Airport

Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is not merely a gateway to the Kingdom, but an ultra-modern and stylish aviation hub that sets new standards for comfort in the region. Following the opening of its new terminal in 2021, the airport has transformed into an elegant space where modern technology meets Bahrain's cultural heritage. It serves as the primary base for the national carrier, Gulf Air, and connects the island nation with dozens of cities worldwide.

The airport's main pride is its new passenger terminal, which is four times larger than the old facility. The space is designed with a focus on aesthetics and convenience: here you will find spacious waiting lounges, numerous shops and restaurants, as well as unique design elements reflecting the country's culture. Travellers are impressed by the undulating ceiling, art installations by Bahraini artists, and even its own museum space, the Cultural Heritage Galleries, where you can explore the history and traditions of the Kingdom. The airport also boasts high efficiency: 104 check-in counters and 36 passport control counters minimise waiting times, making the journey as comfortable as possible.

To contact representatives of Bahrain International Airport (BAH), you can use the following details. It is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information, as phone numbers and addresses may change.

• Official Website: www.bahrainairport.bh — here you will find the most complete and current information about flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Help Desk Phone: +973 8000 7777 — a unified contact centre for general enquiries, flight information, and services.
• Airport Address: Road 2404, Muharraq 224, Kingdom of Bahrain.
• Email: For most enquiries, the airport suggests using the dedicated contact form available on the official website under the "Contact Us" section.
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on popular social networks where you can also follow the news. Search for "Bahrain International Airport" on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you should first contact your airline's representative. For items left or lost within the terminal, please contact the airport's Lost and Found service.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance directly at the airport, please approach the information desks. For remote support, you can use the main help desk phone number.

Getting to Bahrain International Airport from any point in the country's capital, Manama, is quite simple thanks to the well-developed transport infrastructure. Regardless of your budget and preferences, you will easily find a suitable way to reach the terminal. The journey from the city centre usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes, although this time may increase during peak hours.

The most economical option is public transport. Modern, air-conditioned buses operate on several routes connecting the airport with key districts of Manama and other locations on the island. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers and those wishing to experience the local atmosphere. Routes and schedules can be checked on the official Bahrain Public Transport Company website.

The most popular and convenient method is taxi or ride-sharing services (such as Uber or Careem). Official taxis are easy to find throughout the city and operate on a meter. A trip from central Manama will cost more than the bus but ensures comfort and quick delivery directly to the terminal. This is the ideal choice if you are travelling with heavy luggage or in a group.

For those who value independence and plan to actively travel around Bahrain, the optimal solution is car rental. Offices of many international and local rental companies are present at the airport. You can book a car in advance online or do so upon arrival. The airport features a convenient car park system with zones for short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you are arriving in your own or a rented vehicle.

Travellers arriving at or departing from Bahrain International Airport (BAH) need not worry about complex navigation. All passenger operations — from check-in to boarding — are concentrated in a single modern terminal launched in 2021. Such an organisation makes the airport one of the most convenient and intuitive for passengers, as there is absolutely no need to transfer between different buildings.

The terminal's structure is thoughtfully designed to ensure maximum comfort. The Departures Hall is located on the upper floor, allowing passengers to proceed directly to security screening and boarding gates after check-in and baggage drop. The Arrivals Hall, with passport control and baggage reclaim belts, is located on the lower level, logically separating the flows of arriving and departing travellers. Moving between zones is easy thanks to escalators and lifts, while numerous signs in Arabic and English help you orient yourself quickly.

The new terminal impresses not only with its efficiency but also with its design. Spacious halls, an abundance of natural light, and decor elements inspired by the rich culture of Bahrain create a pleasant and calm atmosphere. Passengers have access to a wide selection of shops, diverse restaurants and cafes, as well as cosy lounges for relaxing before a flight. The airport staff are friendly and always ready to assist with any queries.

Although the airport is designed for swift processing of all formalities, it is recommended to arrive early. For international flights, it is optimal to arrive 3 hours before the departure time indicated on your ticket. This buffer will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through passport control and pre-flight security without rushing, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons.

The history of Bahrain International Airport is closely tied to the development of aviation in the Middle East. Although the first aircraft landed here as early as 1927, the official starting point for commercial aviation is considered to be 1932. It was then that the British airline Imperial Airways made the airport on Muharraq Island, near the capital Manama, a strategic stop on its route from London to India. This transformed a small airstrip into an important transit hub.

Over the decades, the airport has continuously developed. In 1961, the first full-fledged passenger terminal was opened, capable of serving the growing number of travellers. Later, in 1971, the airport was expanded to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747, strengthening its status as a major regional aviation centre. During this period, the national airline Gulf Air was established, with the airport becoming its main base.

One of the most significant moments in the airport's history occurred on 21 January 1976. It was to Bahrain that the world's first commercial Concorde flight by British Airways was made. This historic flight forever inscribed the airport into the annals of global aviation and became a symbol of its advanced capabilities for that time.

The airport's recent history has been marked by massive modernisation. In 2021, a completely new, state-of-the-art passenger terminal was opened. This project increased the airport's capacity several times over, offering passengers the highest level of comfort and service. Today, Bahrain International Airport is not just a point on a map, but a modern, high-tech complex that continues to play a key role in connecting East and West.

Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is a modern and comfortable complex offering travellers a full range of services for a pleasant wait before their flight. The airport infrastructure is thought out to the smallest detail to ensure every passenger feels comfortable.

Within the terminal, there is a wide selection of restaurants and cafes: from establishments serving authentic Arabic cuisine to popular global fast-food chains. For those planning to shop, a large Duty Free zone is available. Here you can purchase perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, tobacco products, and local souvenirs at attractive prices.

For those who appreciate enhanced comfort, several VIP lounges are open, such as The Pearl Lounge. Guests are offered snacks and beverages, comfortable relaxation areas, showers, and business corners. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous power outlets and USB ports are provided for charging gadgets.

The airport building houses bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange bureaus operating around the clock. If necessary, passengers can visit the medical centre, where first aid and consultations are provided. The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: assistance services are available, wheelchairs are provided, and special lifts and restrooms are equipped.

Families with children will appreciate the play areas and mother-and-child rooms, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres are provided. And if you have a long layover or an early flight, the Bahrain Airport Hotel is located directly in the transit area, offering comfortable rooms for rest.

At Bahrain International Airport (BAH), travellers will find a wide selection of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick coffee before departure or a full dinner, you will easily find a suitable option. Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the Departures zone (airside), after passport control and security, but there are several excellent establishments in the public zone (landside), accessible to all visitors.

For those wanting a quick snack, world-famous coffee chains such as Starbucks and Costa Coffee, as well as fast-food outlets, operate in the airport. They are perfect for grabbing a sandwich, pastry, or refreshing drink on the go. If you have time to enjoy a meal in a relaxed setting, consider the full-service restaurants. Here you can order international and Asian dishes, as well as try local delicacies.

Being in Bahrain, it is worth taking the opportunity to experience Arabic cuisine. Some airport restaurants serve traditional dishes, such as aromatic rice with chicken or meat (machboos). This is a great chance to enjoy the local flavour without leaving the transit zone. Also, do not miss the opportunity to have a cup of authentic Arabic coffee with sweets.

The airport caters to the needs of diverse passengers. Halal options are widely available and are the standard for most establishments. Many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. If you have stricter dietary restrictions, such as a gluten-free diet, it is best to check the ingredients with the staff. The price range varies: from affordable prices in food courts to higher rates in a la carte restaurants. Given the airport's 24-hour operation, many key establishments are open 24/7, which is particularly convenient for passengers on night flights.

To ensure your journey through Bahrain International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, follow these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before the departure of international flights, especially during peak periods such as weekends and holidays. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing.

To save time, take advantage of online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters if you are travelling with hand luggage only. Security checkpoints in Manama's airport are modern and efficient, but be prepared in advance: keep your boarding pass and passport handy, and pack liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) in a transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for scanning.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer you breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the cityscapes of Manama during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily. Regarding hand luggage, standard rules prohibit carrying liquids over 100 ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances. Always check the specific baggage allowance on your airline's website, as they may differ slightly.

If you have a layover in Bahrain, follow the "Transfers" signs to avoid exiting into the general arrivals area. You will not need to pass through passport and customs control if you remain in the transit zone. The airport offers many amenities for transit passengers, including rest rooms, shops, cafes, and free Wi-Fi, to make the wait for your next flight more pleasant.

Upon arrival in Manama, you will need to pass through customs control. Declare all goods subject to duty. The import of certain goods, such as alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, is limited, and some items are prohibited entirely. To avoid issues, familiarise yourself with the current customs regulations of Bahrain in advance on official websites. To save money, avoid exchanging currency at the airport, where the rate is usually less favourable. It is better to withdraw a small amount from an ATM or exchange money once in the city.

In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (e.g., vouchers for food or drinks). Stay calm and use the time productively: explore the Duty Free shops, have a snack in one of the restaurants, or use a business lounge if you have access.