Bahrain: Authorities impose additional COVID-19 restrictions through at least March 14 /update 22

Event

Bahraini authorities have imposed additional COVID-19 restrictions through at least March 14 to curb the spread of the disease. All social events and gatherings are limited to 30 people. Dining at restaurants and cafes is limited to outdoor seating. Indoor gyms and swimming pools must close during this period. Government agencies must allow up to 70 percent of their employees to work from home.

Starting Feb. 22, travelers arriving in the country have to undergo three polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests over a period of 10 days. In addition to existing directives that incoming travelers take a PCR test on arrival, with those remaining in Bahrain more than 10 days taking another such test on the 10th day of their stay, the new mandate will require travelers to undergo a PCR test after remaining in the country for five days. All tests are at the individual traveler's expense. Travelers must also self-isolate until the individual receives a negative test result. Arrivals must also download the "BeAware Bahrain" application, which includes several tools for contact tracing, scheduling testing appointments, and distributing notifications concerning COVID-19.

Other measures taken by the government include:

• Entry remains restricted to Bahraini citizens, residents, GCC citizens, passengers eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, and passengers with a valid eVisa. For a full list of nationalities eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, click here.

• All passengers must complete the Ministry of Health's "Health Declaration Form" prior to departing for Bahrain.

• International travelers are allowed to transit through Bahrain International Airport (BAH).

• The King Fahad Causeway is open. Those arriving in Bahrain via the causeway are subject to the same procedures as arrivals at BAH. Alternatively, negative PCR certificates acquired from the Saudi Health Ministry taken within 72 hours prior to travel are valid for entry to Bahrain with no requirement for additional testing and quarantine.

• Authorities are accepting applications for and issuing work permits.

• Stringent public health measures are in force, such as the wearing of protective face coverings and social distancing.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Resources

Bahrain International Airport
Gulf Air (GF)
Bahrain's Nationality, Passport & Residence Affairs (NPRA) office
BeAware Bahrain App
World Health Organization (WHO)
Nationalities eligible for Visa on arrival