Kingdom of Bahrain - UAE Relationships

The United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain share longstanding and deeply rooted historical and fraternal ties, founded on close family bonds, shared interests, and the distinguished relations between the two countries’ leaderships and peoples, as well as their common perspectives and positions on a wide range of regional and international issues. These foundations have contributed to consolidating a strong partnership based on continuous coordination and consultation, and on enhancing cooperation across various fields.

UAE–Bahrain relations are of particular importance in view of the two countries’ strategic geographical positions and their active roles in the region, as well as their shared commitment to promoting security, stability, and development within the framework of the Gulf Cooperation Council, alongside broader Arab, Islamic, and international frameworks.

Bilateral relations have witnessed significant progress across various levels and fields, supported by the attention and commitment of the two countries’ leaderships, their shared visions and interests, and their mutual determination to strengthen cooperation and coordination and elevate bilateral relations to broader horizons.

The United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain maintain strong and well-established economic and investment relations, reflected in the steady growth of bilateral trade and mutual investments across a range of vital sectors.

Non-oil trade between the UAE and Bahrain recorded significant growth in 2024, increasing by 23% to reach AED 33.9 billion. Between 2015 and 2024, non-oil bilateral trade grew at an average rate of approximately 11%, the highest growth rate among the UAE’s trading partners in the Gulf. The UAE has also maintained its position as Bahrain’s second-largest trading partner, accounting for approximately 10.4% of the Kingdom’s total trade with the world.

The UAE is also Bahrain’s third-largest foreign investor globally, accounting for nearly 10% of the Kingdom’s cumulative foreign direct investment stock. Furthermore, the UAE–Bahrain Agreement on the Promotion and Protection of Investments entered into force in May 2025, further strengthening the investment environment, supporting the growth of reciprocal investments, deepening economic integration, and creating broader opportunities for the private sectors of both countries.

Cultural relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain are rooted in a long and shared history and a vibrant cultural exchange, reflecting the two countries’ common heritage, historical ties, and strong social bonds. Cultural cooperation between the two sides has developed significantly since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cultural cooperation during the eighth session of the Joint Higher Committee, held in Manama in 2018. This was complemented by an MoU between the Sheikh Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research and the UAE Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, which supported heritage preservation projects in Bahrain, including the restoration of the “Nuzul Al Salam” and “Green Corner” in Muharraq Governorate.

The two countries continue to strengthen cultural cooperation and exchange expertise and initiatives, driven by their shared commitment to preserving their cultural and historical heritage. This cooperation reflects the longstanding historical ties between the UAE and Bahrain and their peoples.

No Data 

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
• Traveler should always carry a copy of the passport or ID card.
• Please make sure to have all required documents and funds required for travelling.
• We kindly advise you to contact your bank prior to your trip to ensure the functionality and authorization of your bank cards for seamless usage during your travels.
• Please sign up for Twajudi Service.
• In Case of inquiries related to laws and guidelines, please contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates.
• Make sure you make all necessary arrangements early on and inquire about the requirements to issue a visa for domestic workers ahead of travel time.
• Follow traffic laws and regulations to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
• It is important to review all required health procedures before traveling to the intended destination.

• It is advised to obtain valid international health insurance before traveling to cover any medical or healthcare needs that may arise during the trip.

• Taking photos of military areas and police officers is illegal.
• Please comply with applicable laws and instructions of the host country.
• Link to Customs law & instructions: https://www.bahraincustoms.gov.bh 
• Passengers must declare cash amounts, precious metals or valuable stones, that exceeds the permitted limit based on the customs laws applied in countries they’ll be visiting.
• Vehicle entry procedures require either an officially certified power of attorney from the vehicle owner, or an official permit approved and issued by the Traffic Department in the United Arab Emirates.

• Health Care is available
• Hospitals and clinics in big cities are fully equipped.

Please follow the instructions received from the official authorities, abide by the regulations and safety procedures. And always have the emergency, ambulance and hospital numbers, and request assistance from the UAE mission in emergency cases.

In case of any disaster:

• Collect essential items and belongings such as identification documents, money, valuable assets and first aid box.
• Please don’t leave your residential location until assistance is available.
• Avoid travelling to countries known as regions of active natural disasters, or volatile security, unless it is necessary. 
• It is strongly recommended to exercise caution and refrain from driving through areas impacted by water accumulation in order to mitigate the risk associated with potential flooding hazards.
• In case of strong winds, take care and resort to the nearest secure place to protect yourself.
• In case of earthquakes, you should get out of buildings to open and safe areas.

Emergency numbers in the Kingdom of Bahrain:

• Police 999
• Ambulance 998
• Civil Defense 997
• Traffic 199

• There are several religious occasions and official events in the host country throughout the year.
• The traveler must respect the prevailing values, customs, traditions and culture in the country.

Official Public Holidays

• 1 January – New Year’s Day
• 1 May – Labour Day
• 1 June – Covenant and Loyalty Day
• 16–17 December – National Day

Religious Occasions

• 1 Muharram – Islamic New Year
• 9–10 Muharram – Ashura Holiday
• 12 Rabi’ al-Awwal – Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
• 1 Shawwal – Eid Al-Fitr
• 9 Dhul Hijjah – Arafat Day
• 10 Dhul Hijjah – Eid Al-Adha

• Note: Some of the dates listed are tentative and may vary based on official announcements.

“Markhoos” is a service provided by the UAE Ministry of Interior to facilitate the smooth travel and movement of UAE nationals abroad, whether for short visits or long-term residence in various countries around the world.

Recognition: It is possible to drive with an Emirati license without the need for a practical or theoretical test for the purpose of tourism or visit.

Replacement: The driver's license can be exchanged for a long-term resident's license

Notes:

• Please follow the laws, procedures and instructions in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

UAE Embassy - Manama

The Ambassador

FAHAD MOHAMMED SALEM Bin KARDOUS ALAMERI

Phone

+97317748333

Address

Villa 270 Street 2510 Block 325, Manama - Kingdom of Bahrain (UAE Embassy)

Email Address

ManamaEMB@mofa.gov.ae

Website

Mission Website