Manama Car Rental

Where to drive

• Drive to the historic Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain), a UNESCO World Heritage site, just a 15-minute drive (approx. 10 km) from central Manama, offering a glimpse into ancient Dilmun civilization.
• Visit the Al-Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve, approximately 40 minutes (around 30 km) southwest of Manama, to see local and exotic wildlife in a protected environment.
• Explore the Bahrain International Circuit, home to the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix, located about 35 minutes (approx. 30 km) south of Manama, offering track experiences and tours.
• Take a scenic coastal drive to Al Dar Islands, roughly 25 minutes (around 20 km) from Manama, where you can then take a short boat trip for beach relaxation and watersports.
• Journey to Riffa, one of Bahrain's largest cities, about 20 minutes (approx. 15 km) south of Manama, known for its fort, golf course, and traditional markets.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Bahrain, you typically need a valid passport, a national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some rental agencies may accept certain national licenses without an IDP for short stays, but it is always safer to have one. The minimum age for car rental is generally 21 years, with some companies requiring drivers to be 25 years old for certain vehicle categories or applying a young driver surcharge for those under 25. Drivers usually need to have held their license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Manama vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 USD per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 50-100 USD or more daily. Prices tend to increase during the cooler winter months and major events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix, with summer often seeing lower rates due to the extreme heat.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Bahrain, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 60-80 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads, and up to 120 km/h on highways, but always check local signage. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is zero tolerance. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are required for children up to four years old or under 135 cm in height. Headlights should be used in poor visibility conditions.

Parking

Parking in Manama varies. Major shopping malls and hotels offer ample free parking. In city centers and popular areas, you will find both paid street parking (often metered) and paid multi-story car parks. Payment for street parking is typically via parking meters that accept coins or sometimes cards, or through mobile apps. Free parking can be found in residential areas, but availability may be limited.

Fuel stations

Fuel is widely available across Manama and Bahrain. Petrol stations are common and generally operate from early morning until late at night, with many open 24/7. Fuel prices are relatively low compared to many other countries, usually paid in Bahraini Dinars (BHD) with cash or credit/debit cards accepted. Self-service is common, but attendants are often available to assist.

Which car to choose

For navigating Manama's urban roads and short trips, an economy or compact car is often sufficient and easy to park. If you plan to explore further afield, such as the desert areas or for more comfort on longer drives, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would be more suitable. Automatic transmission is highly recommended as it is the most common type and makes driving in traffic much easier.

Frequently asked questions