Bahrain's economy took a knock following the pandemic but it is recovering and growing gradually once again. It is heavily reliant on petroleum and aluminium production and remains one of the most important centres for Islamic banking in the Middle East. Expats relocating here can look forward to dealing with banking services that are efficient and reliable.


Money in Bahrain

The currency used in Bahrain is the Bahraini dinar (BHD), which is divided into 1,000 fils.

  • Notes: ½ BHD, 1 BHD, 5 BHD, 10 BHD and 20 BHD

  • Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 fils


Banking in Bahrain

With a strong and sophisticated banking industry, there are a number of good options for expats looking for a local bank in Bahrain. For those who prefer to bank internationally, there are also a host of foreign and multinational banks with branches in Bahrain.

Banks that are popular with expats in Bahrain include Arab Bank, HSBC Bahrain, Ahli United Bank, Citibank and Bank of Bahrain & Kuwait (BBK). Many expats find it easier and more convenient to open a bank account with the bank their employer uses.

Opening hours for banks in Bahrain conform to Islamic culture and are generally between 7.30am and 2.30pm, from Sunday to Thursday.

Opening a bank account in Bahrain

Expats are likely to find that opening a bank account in Bahrain is a bit more of a hassle than in other Gulf countries, as the process is stringently administered and requires a lot of paperwork.

Expats looking to open a bank account in Bahrain must appear at the prospective bank in person, and present a number of documents. The exact requirements vary from bank to bank, but a passport, work and/or residence permit, and proof of residence (such as a utility bill or rental agreement) will usually be required.

ATMs and credit cards in Bahrain

There are plenty of ATMs in Bahrain and expats won't need to look too hard to find one. The majority of ATMs offer 24-hour service, and expats withdrawing cash using a bank card issued by any Bahraini bank will incur no charges at the machines.

Although Bahrain has been a predominantly cash-based society in the past, they are moving away from this. Expats will be able to pay with a debit or credit card almost anywhere now, with many establishments also allowing the use of online payment apps. 


Taxes in Bahrain

One of the great incentives for expats moving to Bahrain is that there is either extremely little personal or income tax levied against their salary each month, or none at all.

Before getting too excited, expats are strongly advised to research whether a double-taxation avoidance agreement exists between Bahrain and their country of origin though. If not, expats will have to pay tax in their country of origin on the money they earn in Bahrain.

Expat Health Insurance

Cigna Health Insurance -

Cigna Global Health Insurance - 10% off any plans bought in November and December 2023

With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider. Cigna is currently offering a 10% discount for seniors (over 60) on their Silver package.

Get a quote from Cigna Global

Moving Internationally?

Sirelo logo

International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.

Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.

Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!