Bahrain (Kingdom of)

History of Relations | Diplomatic Representation | Travel Info | Health Requirements | Climate Info | Currency Info | Trade Statistics | Visits and Meetings | Agreements | Interest Groups/ Organisations

History of Relations

South Africa and Bahrain concluded diplomatic relations in 1993 and a South African Embassy was opened in Manama in November 1993. With the establishment of a South African Embassy in Saudi Arabia in 1996, the Embassy in Bahrain's responsibilities was taken over by the latter.

South Africa's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia is accredited to Bahrain on a non-resident basis.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Bahrain

There is no South African representation in Bahrain, but the South African Ambassador to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is accredited to Manama on a non-resident basis.

H E Mr C T Rubushe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Bahrain Representation in South Africa

Bahrain has no representation in South Africa.

Travel

Visa requirements for South Africans

Information regarding visas to Bahrain can be found at www.bahrain.gov.bh.

Health Requirements

There are no specific health requirements for travellers from South Africa.

For further information go to Travelers' Health.

Climate Info

Bahrain is very hot and humid during summer with temperatures sometimes in excess of 50C. Winter months from December to March are moderate.

For up-to-date weather information click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Bahraini Dinar, divided into 1,000 Fils. The symbol for the Dinar is BD. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

None

Bilateral Agreements

Trade Info

South Africa's main exports to Bahrain are machinery and mechanical appliances, as well as textiles. Bahrain's main exports to South Africa are base metals and electronic equipment.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bahrain, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

No information

General

The Kingdom of Bahrain offers a fascinating blend of eastern and western culture - it is modern and cosmopolitan with large shopping malls and high rise buildings, but also traditional in some parts where ancient traditions and historical sites are predominant.

As an Islamic country, visitors are reminded to respect the culture and religion accordingly.

Bahrain is also home to a relatively large South African expatriate community.

The Bahraini work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

During summer vacations (June to September), the holy month of Ramadan and Hajj, most government and business activities in Bahrain slow down. Potential business visitors to Bahrain should consult with the South African Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia regarding the most suitable time to plan a visit.