How does healthcare work in Bahrain, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

What is the quality of healthcare in Bahrain?

• In Bahrain, you can expect modern and well-organized healthcare. The country has a combination of public and private options, offering many choices.
• Healthcare is strongly supported by the government, and there has been a lot of investment in medical infrastructure.
• Locals receive free care under the National Social Health Insurance Program (Sehati). Expats are sometimes covered by their employer but generally take out their own international health insurance.
• You can easily book medical appointments through Sehati's online system.
• Because the healthcare system is so efficient, you often have an appointment with a specialist within 24-48 hours!
• Also, because Bahrain is a small country, good care is always close by!
• To enter Bahrain, you must undergo two health checks: one in your home country and one in Bahrain.

How does the public healthcare system work in Bahrain?

• Public healthcare in Bahrain is available to all residents, including emigrants, but for a small fee. Government hospitals and clinics provide good care.
• For residents of Bahrain, costs are low. Foreigners pay an annual premium as part of their work visa or can get services at a lower rate at public institutions.
• Public hospitals and clinics are well equipped and meet high medical standards.
• Almost all doctors and nurses speak English, as Bahrain is an international workplace with many expats.
• Also, waiting lists are short, even in public healthcare.
• Even though expats are partially covered by the national health care system, most people choose to have their own private international health insurance so that they can use private facilities and the costs are fully covered.

How does the private healthcare system work in Bahrain?

• Bahrain has a large number of private hospitals and clinics that offer expats prompt and personalized service.
• Private care is more expensive than public care, but rates are relatively lower than in many Western countries. However, many employers offer health insurance that provides access to private care.
• Emigrants often choose private care because of shorter waiting times and access to specialized treatments.

How is the family doctor or general practitioner arranged in Bahrain?

• In Bahrain, you can spend a long time looking for a traditional family doctor. Most people visit a specialist or clinic directly for medical help.
• Thanks to the large supply, however, it is easy to get the right medical care quickly.

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Bahrain?

• Dental care is offered in both public and private institutions.
• It is high quality, with well-equipped practices and experienced dentists!
• Basic treatments are affordable in public institutions, while private dental practices charge higher rates. Not all dental care is covered by standard insurance, so it is important to get insurance with good dental coverage.

How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Bahrain?

• Preventive care during and after your pregnancy can be received at both public and private institutions. You get regular appointments from the beginning of pregnancy, which continue until after the baby is born. Similarly, there is a free vaccination program for babies.
• Most women give birth in the hospital.
• Bahrain has low maternal and infant mortality rates. An indication of a good healthcare system!
• As long as you cover yourself, you can breastfeed anywhere. You can also find breastfeeding rooms in some malls.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Bahrain?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Bahrain?

• Because of tensions in the region, there is potential for escalation/terrorism.
• There are sometimes demonstrations in Bahrain, often around important days. These demonstrations can get out of hand, so it is safer to avoid them.
• There is little crime, but it is still always good to watch your belongings!
• Bahrain is quite liberal compared to surrounding countries.
• Still, it is important to read up on local customs and rules (e.g., dress covered, respect Islam, and know rules of Ramadan) to avoid breaking laws or offending people.
• And it does happen that women traveling alone are harassed. Some women have also been detained who reported sexual assault, because it must be proven that they did not give consent.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Bahrain?

• In Bahrain, it is good to be careful with food and drink, even in luxury accommodations. Tap water is drunk by some but discouraged by others. It is best to always install a filter on your tap. And also be careful, for example, with food from a buffet that has been standing for a long time.
• The extreme heat is also a health risk for people who are not used to it. Especially during the summer months, it is important to drink a lot and protect yourself from the sun.
• Diseases like asthma are worsened for some people by the sand and dust floating around because of the constant construction activities.
• Many expats experience mental problems due to the culture shock - this can lead to stress, depression, and loneliness. This is much less common among locals, so there may be less understanding and concern if you find yourself in such a situation.

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Bahrain?

• The roads are well maintained, but drivers can drive aggressively.
• Road rules are taken very seriously in Bahrain.
• Breaking speed limits or driving with alcohol in your body can result in hefty fines or a total driving disqualification.
• Be aware of cab fraud - always check that the meter is working and that no extra charge is being added. It is illegal for cabs to drive without a meter and officially you do not have to pay anything if the meter is not working, but well... in reality?

What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Bahrain?

• Is the trip to Bahrain and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? 
• Insurance for backpacking and traveling in Bahrain
• Insurance for studying in Bahrain
• Insurance for internships in Bahrain
• Insurance for volunteering in Bahrain
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Bahrain

What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Bahrain?

• It is mandatory to have health insurance if you want to live in Bahrain.
• International health insurance for Bahrain
• International travel insurance for Bahrain
• International life insurance for Bahrain
• International income protection insurance for Bahrain