Government

Constitutional hereditary monarchy, of 12 municipalities all administered from the capital, Manama. Independence from the UK on 15 August 1971. Chief of State is King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa (since 6 March 1999); Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 1971). The Monarchy is hereditary and the Prime Minister appointed by the Monarch

Culture

Although great emphasis is naturally placed on the development of its own citizens, due to its large expatriate population Bahrain has a marvelous multi-national mix of nationalities, all living harmoniously together in a completely unique mix of cultures. English is widely spoken, but traditional Arab courtesy and hospitality are still the hallmark of a friendly and peaceful Bahrain.

Infrastructure

With its highly developed communication and transport facilities, Bahrain is home to numerous multinational firms with business in the Gulf.

Communications

Excellent international communication run by Batelco. Telephone, mobile and internet services are readily available.

Currency

Bahraini Dinar (BD), constituted of 1000 fils. Fixed against the US dollar at 1US$ = BD0.3768. Bank notes: 500 fils, 1, 5, 10 and 20 Dinar, Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50,100 and 500 fils

Business Hours

Government offices are open 7am to 2.15pm, Saturday to Tuesday, 7am to 2pm on Wednesday. Banks open 7.30am to 12pm Saturday to Thursday, with selected branches also open a few hours some afternoons. Central Post Office (Manama, near Bab Al Bahrain) is open 7am to 7.30pm Saturday to Thursday. Shop hours vary, but typically 8.30am to 12.30pm and 4pm to 8pm Saturday to Thursday. Many shops open half or full day on Friday as well.

Airport

Bahrain International Airport saw over 5 million passengers in 2004 and the air cargo sector showed dramatic expansion. Bahrain International Airport emerged during 2004 as the most dynamic regional air cargo gateway in the Gulf as a number of major cargo airlines commenced services and others increased frequency. It is an easy 15 minute drive from Manama.

Tax Free Shopping

Bahrain Duty Free is located in Bahrain International Airport. (http://www.bdutyfree.com/index.cgi).

Transport

With over 2,500 kms of paved road networks, traveling by car in Bahrain is easy. The Ministry of Transportation have developed public transport which now covers most areas of the Kingdom by bus. Car rental agencies are generally located within hotels in Manama and you will need to get an International Driving Permit before entering the country if you wish to drive. Taxi cabs are in abundance and are metered.

Accommodation

Options range from 5 star deluxe hotels to studios and apartments to simple rooms/budget.

Amenities

Bahrain has good quality modern medical facilities. Treatment by the Kingdom medical services is available to citizens and residents free, or at a nominal cost. There are also several private hospitals. Well stock pharmacies exist all over the Kingdom.