Middle East travel guide
Driving in Bahrain with a foreign licence
Bring an IDP
Rental desks and local authorities in Bahrain commonly ask foreign drivers to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. Bahrain drives on the right and enforces zero alcohol behind the wheel; tourists should carry an IDP with their national licence.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDPStrongly recommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1968 Vienna
On the road
Rules of the road in Bahrain
- Zero-tolerance alcohol law while driving.
- Speed cameras widespread.
- Seatbelts mandatory front and rear.
- Phone use while driving heavily fined.
At the rental desk
Manama desks request an IDP for most non-GCC licences.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Bahrain with a foreign licence?
Yes, with your national licence plus an International Driving Permit, which Bahrain requires for foreign drivers.
02
Which side of the road does Bahrain drive on?
Bahrain drives on the right.
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