How is living in Bahrain as an American?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Bahrain Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Bahrain Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

SANDS OF WEALTH

A team specialized in real estate investing in MENA countries (Morocco, UAE, Oman, etc.)

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Bahrain. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At Sands of Wealth, we explore the Bahraini real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Manama, Muharraq, and Riffa. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

How many Americans currently live in Bahrain?

As of September 2025, several thousand Americans live in Bahrain, though precise official numbers are not publicly reported by either government.

This American community includes professionals working in finance and oil sectors, military personnel stationed at the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters, expatriate families, and business professionals. Americans represent a small but notable portion of Bahrain's substantial expatriate population, which comprises over half of the country's total 1.7 million residents.

The American presence is particularly concentrated in areas like Juffair, Adliya, and Amwaj Islands, where many expatriate families choose to live due to proximity to international schools and Western amenities. Military families often reside in designated housing areas near the naval base.

Unlike some neighboring Gulf countries, Bahrain has maintained strong diplomatic and economic ties with the United States, making it an attractive destination for American expatriates and contributing to the steady American population there.

Why do Americans usually move to Bahrain?

Americans typically relocate to Bahrain for lucrative career opportunities, particularly in finance, oil and gas, and education sectors.

The primary financial incentive is Bahrain's zero personal income tax policy, which can result in 40-60% higher net income compared to equivalent positions in the United States. Many American professionals receive comprehensive expatriate packages that include housing allowances, education subsidies for children, and relocation assistance.

Military postings represent another significant reason, as Bahrain hosts the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters, bringing hundreds of American military families to the country. These assignments typically last 2-3 years and include full military benefits and housing.

Business opportunities in Bahrain's growing financial sector also attract American entrepreneurs and executives, as the country serves as a regional hub for banking and investment services. The combination of tax-free income, modern infrastructure, and strategic location makes Bahrain particularly appealing for Americans seeking international career advancement.

It's something we develop in our Bahrain property pack.

Is English widely spoken, or will I need to learn Arabic?

English is widely spoken throughout Bahrain and serves as the primary business and working language, making daily life comfortable for Americans without Arabic skills.

Approximately 60% of Bahrain's residents speak English, with this percentage rising to 80% among younger populations. Most shops, restaurants, banks, and government services provide English-language options, and road signs throughout the country are bilingual in Arabic and English.

In professional settings, English dominates in international companies, banks, and business meetings. Healthcare facilities, particularly private hospitals and clinics frequented by expatriates, operate primarily in English with English-speaking medical staff.

While learning basic Arabic phrases is appreciated by locals and can enhance cultural experiences, it's not necessary for daily functioning. Most expatriates living in Bahrain successfully navigate all aspects of life using only English, from shopping and banking to dealing with utility companies and government paperwork.

What is daily life like in Bahrain compared to the United States?

Daily life in Bahrain for Americans centers around modern, secure accommodations with extensive amenities, typically in gated expatriate communities or upscale districts of Manama.

Housing arrangements often include access to swimming pools, fitness centers, and security services, with many Americans living in villa compounds or luxury apartment complexes. Domestic help, including housekeepers and drivers, is affordable and commonly employed by expatriate families.

Professional routines follow international business standards, with most offices operating Sunday through Thursday. American families typically send children to international schools following American or British curricula, with school buses and after-school activities readily available.

Social activities adapt to the climate, with outdoor pursuits concentrated in early morning or evening hours during the extremely hot summer months from May through September. Indoor entertainment, including shopping malls, restaurants, and cultural venues, operates year-round with extensive air conditioning.

Healthcare access through private facilities provides high-quality medical care with English-speaking staff, though Americans often maintain international health insurance for comprehensive coverage.

What are the biggest cultural differences I should expect?

The most significant cultural adjustment involves adapting to Islamic practices and customs that shape daily life and social interactions in Bahrain.

Religious observances like daily prayer calls from mosques, Ramadan fasting periods, and Friday being the primary day for family gatherings and mosque attendance will become part of your routine awareness. During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited, though private spaces and designated areas remain available.

Dress codes lean more conservative than typical American standards, particularly in traditional neighborhoods and government buildings. While Western attire is common in expatriate areas and business districts, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appreciated and sometimes required.

Social interactions emphasize formal courtesy and respect, with handshakes and polite greetings being standard. Family relationships take precedence in Bahraini culture, and personal connections often influence business and social arrangements more than in American culture.

Gender roles may appear more traditional, though Bahrain is considered liberal by Gulf standards, with women actively participating in business and professional life.

What things might feel better in Bahrain than back home?

The financial advantages of living in Bahrain often provide Americans with a significantly higher standard of living than they experienced in the United States.

1. **Tax-free income** boosts disposable income by 40-60%, allowing for increased savings and lifestyle improvements2. **Lower overall living costs** for housing, food, transportation, and domestic services compared to major American cities3. **Enhanced personal safety** with extremely low crime rates and strong security presence throughout the country4. **Affordable domestic help** enabling housekeeping, childcare, and driver services that would be prohibitively expensive in the U.S.5. **Multicultural environment** with over 50% expatriate population creating easy social connections and familiar international amenities6. **Strategic location** for travel throughout the Middle East, Asia, and Europe with excellent airline connections7. **High-quality private healthcare** at lower costs than American private medical care8. **International school options** often superior to public school alternatives in many U.S. locations

What are the downsides or challenges compared to living in the U.S.?

The extreme summer climate presents the most significant ongoing challenge, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) and high humidity from May through September.

Educational costs become substantial as public schools teach in Arabic, requiring expatriate families to budget for private international schools that can cost $15,000-25,000 annually per child. Air quality issues, particularly during sandstorms and due to urban pollution, may affect those with respiratory sensitivities.

Transportation infrastructure requires car ownership or rental for practical mobility, as public transportation options remain limited compared to major American cities. Bureaucratic processes for visas, residency permits, and business licenses can be slower and less transparent than Americans typically expect.

Social restrictions around alcohol consumption, public displays of affection, and certain behavioral norms require ongoing awareness and adjustment. Healthcare, while high quality, often requires private insurance or direct payment for the best facilities and specialists.

Housing costs in prime expatriate areas can be expensive, potentially offsetting some cost-of-living advantages, particularly for luxury accommodations in areas like Amwaj Islands or central Manama.

How expensive is it to live in Bahrain overall?

Living costs in Bahrain are typically 36-50% lower than the United States, though housing in premium expatriate areas can be expensive.

Category	Monthly Cost (USD)	Comparison to U.S.
Single Person (excluding rent)	$1,800	40-50% lower
Family of Four (excluding rent)	$3,700	35-45% lower
One-bedroom apartment (city center)	$800-1,200	Varies by location
Three-bedroom apartment (expat area)	$1,500-2,500	Often lower than U.S. cities
Utilities (electricity, water, internet)	$150-250	30-40% lower
Domestic helper (part-time)	$300-500	80% lower than U.S.
International school (annual)	$15,000-25,000	Comparable to U.S. private schools

Groceries and dining out cost significantly less than American equivalents, while imported luxury goods and specialty items may be more expensive. Transportation costs, including car rental and fuel, remain very affordable compared to U.S. standards.

What is the lifestyle like in terms of food, entertainment, and social life?

Bahrain's lifestyle offers a vibrant mix of international cuisine, active nightlife, and diverse entertainment options that cater well to American preferences.

The dining scene features extensive international restaurants serving American, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, alongside popular global chains familiar to Americans. Local specialties like machbous (spiced rice with meat), samboosas, and shawarma provide authentic cultural experiences, while coffee shop culture thrives with numerous cafes offering social gathering spaces.

Entertainment options include licensed bars, clubs, and music venues, particularly in expatriate-friendly areas like Adliya and Juffair, where alcohol is readily available. Shopping malls provide air-conditioned entertainment with cinemas, bowling alleys, and international retail brands.

The expatriate community organizes extensive social activities including sports clubs, networking events, cultural societies, and community service organizations. Americans typically find easy integration into social circles through workplace connections, children's school activities, and expatriate organizations.

Outdoor activities shift seasonally, with beach clubs, water sports, and desert excursions popular during cooler months from October through April, while summer social life moves indoors to air-conditioned venues.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Bahrain versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Can foreigners, especially Americans, buy property in Bahrain, and if so, how?

Americans can purchase property with full ownership rights in government-designated freehold zones throughout Bahrain, including popular areas like Amwaj Islands, Juffair, Seef, Diyar Al Muharraq, and Reef Island.

The ownership structure grants 100% freehold ownership of both property and land, with complete rights to sell, rent out, and transfer ownership to heirs. No local partner or sponsor is required for property purchase, and there are no capital gains taxes or rental income taxes on property investments.

The purchasing process typically takes 4-8 weeks and requires specific documentation including passport copies, salary certificates, and bank statements. Property buyers often qualify for renewable residency visas, making real estate investment an attractive path to long-term residency.

Americans can finance property purchases through local banks, though most opt for cash transactions due to competitive property prices and favorable exchange rates. Legal assistance is recommended to navigate documentation requirements and ensure proper title transfer.

It's something we develop in our Bahrain property pack.

What practical challenges should I be ready for as an American moving there?

Visa and residency documentation processes can be complex and time-consuming, requiring patience with bureaucratic procedures that may be less efficient than American standards.

1. **Legal documentation** requires multiple certificates, attestations, and translations that must be completed before arrival2. **Banking setup** may take several weeks due to compliance requirements and background checks3. **Utility connections** for electricity, water, and internet often involve separate applications and deposits4. **Driving license conversion** requires testing and documentation, though some U.S. licenses are recognized5. **Import regulations** for household goods and vehicles include specific documentation and potential duties6. **Cultural adaptation** to Islamic holidays, prayer times, and social customs requires ongoing awareness7. **Climate adjustment** to extreme heat necessitates lifestyle changes and increased indoor time during summer months

Professional relocation services and expatriate networks provide valuable assistance in navigating these challenges, with many American companies offering comprehensive relocation support for their transferred employees.

Are there any unique considerations about Bahrain that Americans should know before relocating?

Bahrain's unique position as a relatively liberal Gulf state with strong American ties creates a distinctive living environment that differs from other Middle Eastern countries.

The country's social tolerance and diversity levels exceed most regional neighbors, yet it remains fundamentally conservative with Islamic social codes that require respectful adherence. Understanding and respecting local customs, particularly during religious periods like Ramadan, helps ensure smooth cultural integration.

Bahrain's small size (about three times smaller than Rhode Island) means that community connections and networking become particularly important for both professional success and social satisfaction. The expatriate community is highly supportive and often essential for newcomers seeking practical advice and social connections.

Political awareness is advised, as regional tensions occasionally affect daily life and travel plans. Americans should stay informed about security recommendations from the U.S. Embassy and maintain appropriate travel insurance and documentation.

Long-term planning should consider that expatriate life in Bahrain often involves eventual return to the home country, making financial planning and investment decisions important for maximizing the tax-free income benefits while abroad.

It's something we develop in our Bahrain property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Sands of Wealth - Living in Bahrain as an American
2. World Atlas - Languages Spoken in Bahrain
3. North American Van Lines - Living in Bahrain
4. Numbeo - Cost of Living Comparison
5. Expatistan - Bahrain Cost of Living
6. PI Startup - Buying Property in Bahrain
7. Sands of Wealth - Moving to Bahrain to Buy Property
8. Four Winds - Things to Know Before Moving to Bahrain