Bahrain

Overview

Military strikes and reprisal attacks have occurred in a number of locations in the Middle East, including Bahrain. The situation continues to be unpredictable, and the risk of military conflict remains. If the security situation deteriorates, travel disruptions and airspace closures should be expected. Our travel advice levels could also change at short notice. 

There remains a threat of attacks against United States linked locations, and Israeli communities in the region. Avoid likely targets areas, including military bases, oil infrastructure, critical infrastructure like airports, power plants and sub-stations, telecommunication sites, de-salination plants and US diplomatic facilities like US Embassies, US Consulates and identifiably US businesses.  

New Zealanders in the region should stay vigilant and monitor the media to stay informed about current events in your travel destination. 

 If you are in, or planning to travel to, the Middle East, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including any shelter in place orders. 

You can read more about our advice for what to do during violence or conflict here. 

For further information about the security situation in the Middle East, you can read our news article here. 

There are more significant safety or security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand because of the potential for civil unrest and the threat of terrorism. 

Demonstrations and protests are common and can result in violence. Protests are illegal and should be avoided.

Terrorist threats have included attacks on government buildings, transport, and tourist areas. 

Other things that New Zealanders travelling or living in Bahrain should be aware of are:

• Crime—watch out for petty theft
• Maritime travel—regional tensions make travelling in the Gulf area highly sensitive. There is a curfew in place in the waterways around Bahrain.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Bahrain should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

See below for detailed travel advice. 

Nearest office