Travel chaos prevails as theconflict in the Middle East continues, with the international airport in Bahrain still shut and British nationals in the region told to limit movements to essential journeys only.
Holidaymakers who have trips booked in the region are advised to follow the advice of the UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) on what to do if they are heading to or are currently in a country in the Middle East.
Here is the latest advice for those who want to travel within Bahrain or leave the island, plus what to do if you are staying in the country.
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Is it safe to travel to Bahrain?
The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Bahrain as of 28 February, still current as of 16 March.
What is the UK government’s advice if you are already there?
The FCDO is asking British nationals to let the UK government know they are in Bahrain by registering their presence there.
Once you have registered, the FCDO will send you important updates to our travel advice.
The FCDO says that “regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption”.
It continues: “Iran continues to strike civilian infrastructure across the region such as hotels, roads, bridges, energy facilities, oil production sites, water systems, and airports.”
It advises British nationals to read its “If you’re affected by a crisis abroad” guidance, which includes what emergency supplies you may need.
It also says to follow the advice of local authorities, sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, and monitor local and international media for the latest information.
The FCDO also says to stay away from areas around security or military facilities and US government facilities.
If you decide to stay in Bahrain, follow the instructions of the local authorities. If you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. You should not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects.
“We advise British nationals, wherever possible, to stay inside and limit movements to essential journeys only. Always let friends or family know where you are and when you are travelling and keep your mobile phone with you and charged,” the FCDO adds.
How can I get home?
The FCDO says that if your presence in Bahrain is not essential, you may wish to consider departing if you judge you can access these options safely.
If you plan to travel by road, read the travel advice for Saudi Arabia for the latest information, which includes entry requirements and what paperwork you will need.
British nationals who are trying to leave Bahrain via Saudi Arabia and who are travelling on British Emergency Travel Documents, Emergency Passports, or passports with less than 6 months remaining validity, should call the helplines for British Embassy Riyadh +966 (0) 11481 9100 or British Consulate Jeddah +966 (0)126225550 for advice.
If travelling by car, the vehicle must be wholly owned and registered in your name. If using commercial options to depart, check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator, as well as the instructions of local authorities and the status of any border crossings before you travel. Make sure you have access to emergency supplies and essential medication.
The FCDO says “travel within or out of Bahrain is at your own risk”.
It adds that people should keep their departure plans under review and ensure their travel documents are up to date, including any visas required for onward travel.
Bahrain International Airport (BIA) said: “Flight operations at BIA remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Bahrain airspace, as mandated by the Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs.
“This measure is in place to ensure the highest level of safety for our passengers and employees.”
Can I cancel my holiday?
Should you decide to cancel a flight ticket, holiday, tour or excursion to Bahrain, speak to your travel provider. As the FCDO advises all but essential travel – urgent family or business commitments – to Bahrain, you may be able to cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund. Package holidays must follow the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, with refunds issued if there has been a “significant change at your destination” before you travel. Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the FCDO.
