Bahrain

You’re subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you’re arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can’t get you out of trouble or out of jail.

The nearest Australian Embassy is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It doesn’t have direct access to police, jails, hospitals and other services. Flights between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have been temporarily suspended due to the outbreak of COVID-19. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Bahrain may be limited. 

The Australian Embassy has to formally ask for access through the Bahraini Embassy in Riyadh. Authorities approve this on a case-by-case basis, so there may be a delay. 

Behaviour in Australia that you might consider offensive or anti-social, but not criminal, could be illegal. Anyone breaking Bahraini law, even without knowing, may be subject to severe punishment.

Bahraini law applies to you even if you’re transiting and don’t leave the airport.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences, including possession, are severe and include the death penalty and life sentences.

More information:

Commercial and family law

Bahrain’s laws differ from Australia’s in several areas, including:

• commercial matters
• divorce
• child custody
• child support

If you have family or commercial interests in Bahrain, get professional advice on your legal rights and responsibilities.

Authorities might stop you from leaving Bahrain if you have a commercial or labour dispute, legal proceedings or unpaid debts. See Travel

Supporting Qatar

There are no diplomatic ties between Bahrain and Qatar.

In Bahrain, it’s illegal to support Qatar. You can’t speak or write against the Bahraini Government’s policy on Qatar, including on social media. If you break these laws, you may face jail time and a large fine.

Other laws

You may face the death penalty for serious crimes, such as murder and drug offences.

You may face lashing for some offences, including stealing.

Always carry photo ID or authorities may fine you.

If you drive under the influence of alcohol, authorities may detain, fine and ban you from driving.

It’s illegal to:

• try to convert a Muslim to another religion
• make offensive remarks about or insult Bahrain, the royal family, the local government or officials
• swear or abuse people, or make rude gestures in public or on social media
• join protests and demonstrations
• possess pornography
• have sex outside marriage

Ask for permission before photographing people. Don’t take photos of locals, especially women and children, without permission.

In some cases it is illegal to take photos of government buildings, official motorcades and sensitive infrastructure, including oil fields.

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government