Bahrain Airport Manama: Your Gateway to the Kingdom

Axel Donovan

July 22, 2025

Flying to Bahrain? Begin your adventure at Bahrain Airport Manama, the country’s main aviation hub and the landing point for millions of travelers every year. Located on Muharraq Island and just seven kilometers from the heart of Manama, it offers all the comforts and conveniences a traveler needs—from smooth arrivals to quick journeys into the vibrant capital. This guide gives you up-to-date info, easy directions, and expert tips for an effortless start to your trip.

Bahrain Airport Manama

What Makes Bahrain Airport Manama Exceptional?

Travelers love Bahrain Airport for its:

Strategic location near Manama and top hotels
Modern passenger terminal opened in 2021
Efficient check-in, security, and baggage systems (22 e-gates, 8 reclaim belts)
Friendly staff, clear signs in English and Arabic
Clean, safe, and comfortable transport connections

Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, arriving at Bahrain Airport Manama means you’re close to the city action within minutes.

Table: Bahrain Airport Manama at a Glance

Feature	Details	Traveler Tip
Location	Muharraq Island, ~7 km from Manama	15-20 min taxi to city center
Passenger Terminal	Capacity 14 million/year, modern design	Arrive early to enjoy amenities
Airlines	30+ including Gulf Air, Emirates, British Airways	Check your airline & gate
Bus & Taxi Access	Direct, budget-friendly	Buses run every 15–30 min
Facilities	Duty-free, lounges, restaurants	Try local Bahraini snacks

Manama Bahrain International Airport: An Introduction

Manama Bahrain International Airport (IATA: BAH) is Bahrain’s only commercial airport and one of the oldest in the region. It handles all international flights to the Kingdom and serves as the hub for Gulf Air, connecting Bahrain with Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Gulf.

Features include:

Modern arrival and departure halls
24 gates for quick boarding
Spacious duty-free and shopping zones
Free Wi-Fi and family-friendly lounges
24/7 operations for all flight times

The entire airport is easy to navigate, with helpful staff and multilingual assistance available as soon as you arrive.

Manama Bahrain International Airport - international and domestic flights

Arrival and Facilities at Bahrain Airport

After landing, you’ll find:

44 immigration counters for fast entry
Air-conditioned waiting areas & prayer rooms
Currency exchange, ATMs, and clinics
On-site cafes, shops, and restaurants
A car rental area near the exit

Tip: The airport is compact and well-signed, so even with a connecting flight you can transfer quickly between gates.

Getting into Manama: Bus from Bahrain Airport to Manama

Traveling from Bahrain Airport Manama to downtown is easy, with several options. The cheapest and most authentic is the local bus.

Public Bus Service

Bus Lines: A1, A2, 10, and 11 connect directly to Manama
Departure: Buses depart from Exit 4, zone 4A on the Arrivals level
Frequency: A1 about every 15–20 minutes; others up to every 30–60 minutes depending on route/time
Journey Time: Around 20–30 minutes to city center, depending on traffic
Fare: 0.300 BHD single; 0.275 BHD with GO Card; daily cap 0.700 BHD
Where to Buy: Buy from the bus driver (single ticket) or use a GO Card; GO Card costs 0.500 BHD and can be topped up at stations

Bus from Bahrain Airport to Manama

Taxi and Rideshare

Taxis are plentiful and take about 15–20 minutes to central Manama
Cost: Commonly 7–14 BHD depending on destination and traffic
Book at official taxi stand or pre-arrange with your hotel

Table: Bahrain Airport to Manama Transport Options

Mode	Time to City	Cost (BHD)	Best For
Bus (A1/A2)	20–30 minutes	0.275–0.300	Budget, local experience
Taxi	15–20 minutes	7–14	Quick, direct rides
Rental Car	15–20 minutes+	Varies	Longer trips, flexible

Tip: Traveling light? The bus is easy and offers free Wi‑Fi on board. Traveling with extra luggage or in a hurry? Choose a taxi for door-to-door convenience.

Step-by-Step: Taking the Bus from Bahrain Airport to Manama

Arrivals Level: After luggage, exit through customs and follow signs to Exit 4, zone 4A for the bus stop.
Buy Ticket/Go Card: Purchase a single ticket from the driver or use a GO Card (0.500 BHD to buy; discounted fares).
Board Your Bus: Line A1 runs most frequently (about every 15–20 minutes); A2 and 10/11 are typically 30–60 minutes.
Destination: Buses serve Manama Bus Terminal/Bab Al Bahrain and major stops in central Manama.
Enjoy the Ride: Safe, air‑conditioned buses with free Wi‑Fi.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Arriving Early: Enjoy duty-free shopping or local snacks.
For Families or Groups: Book a taxi or rideshare for maximum comfort.
Language: English widely spoken in airport and on transport.
Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD). ATMs and exchange counters onsite.
Wi‑Fi: Free throughout the terminal and on airport buses.

FAQs: Bahrain Airport Manama for Travellers

How far is Bahrain Airport from Manama city center?

About 7 km (4 miles); typically 15–20 minutes by bus or taxi depending on traffic.

What’s the cheapest way to get from Bahrain Airport to Manama?

The city bus (A1/A2/10/11) costs 0.300 BHD single, or 0.275 BHD with a GO Card and a 0.700 BHD daily cap.

Are there facilities for late-night or early morning arrivals?

Yes. The airport operates 24/7, and taxis are always available; bus frequencies vary by route and time of day.

Can I get Bahraini Dinar at the airport?

Yes, use one of the currency exchange desks or ATMs after arrivals.

Is Bahraini public transport easy for foreigners?

Yes. Signs are in English and Arabic, and staff are helpful and friendly.

Table: Bahrain Airport Manama Quick Facts

Facility or Service	What You’ll Find	Local Advice
Duty-Free	Perfumes, snacks, electronics	Buy before passing customs
Transportation	Regular buses, 24/7 taxis	Ask for official taxi rank
Currency	ATMs, bank exchange counters	Withdraw small bills
Wi‑Fi	Free everywhere	Useful for ride apps
Food & Coffee	Local & international options	Try Bahraini sweets

Sample Arrival Itinerary

09:00 AM: Land at Bahrain Airport Manama
09:20 AM: Clear immigration and collect bags
09:30 AM: Buy bus ticket/Go Card, check city bus schedules
09:40 AM: Ride to Manama on A1, A2, 10, or 11 bus line
10:15 AM: Arrive at Bab Al Bahrain ready to explore souqs and museums

Final Tips for an Effortless Arrival

Book hotel pickup or check if your hotel offers a shuttle.
Download offline maps before you fly.
Carry some local cash.
Beat the heat: Bahrain’s climate is hot—use airport lounges or air‑conditioned buses.
Relax! Navigating between airport and city is straightforward and stress‑free.

Bahrain Airport Manama: Visa Tips (GVC Special)

Traveling to Bahrain? Make your trip worry-free by handling your visa before you land at Bahrain Airport Manama. GVC’s online platform helps you apply quickly, check on your application’s status, and budget with full price transparency.

Start planning and apply for your Bahrain visa with GVC for an easy arrival right at the airport.
Already submitted your e-visa? Track your application’s progress with GVC so your entry into Bahrain is seamless.
Want to know more about the costs? See current visa pricing from GVC to plan your Bahrain journey with confidence.

By taking care of your visa early, your arrival at Bahrain Airport Manama will be smooth and stress-free—leaving you more time to explore Manama’s sights, flavors, and local hospitality right from your first steps in the Kingdom. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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