Bahrain Export Enhancement Program

Any American military contractors ever work in Bahrain?

I am likely going to accept a job in Bahrain very soon. Is there anything fun to do in the Manama area? Is it safe enough to raise a family there (remember I'm a regular old white American guy). Any tips or suggestions about living in Bahrain would be greatly appreciated. I've already worked & lived in Afghanistan for a year, so I know more than most about living abroad.....I just want suggestions about Bahrain specifically.

Public Comments

1. Safe. Not much to do. Worry about sea snakes if kids swim. South end of island is mostly desert. Power used to be unpredictable. Good wishes.
2. I worked for a Kuwaiti company in Iraq they used to fly us there for R&R. Bahrain is nice. It's a multi cultural place. If you are taking your family there they will be fine. If you have kids make sure your employer will pay for private school. I am not sure what public school is like there? There are a lot of western resturants there Shopping malls, ect.... After a while you will meet other people and make friends just like any where.
3. i live in bahrain...im not a military contractor....but i cud help.. it is really safe..not ur typical islamic country..the people are friendly and we have people residing here from all around d world so theres lots of different cultures... theres not much to do apart from shopping, drinking and golf... you could find out more from bahrainthismonth.com or even gulf-daily-news.com.
4. There are alot of Americans in Manama area as it is 5/10Min's from the Base there. Safe - absolutely, women just need to be wise about how they dress - respectful of the Islamic traditions ie. I wouldn't wear shorts or sleeveless T's but regular T's are fine. Advise your family not to be overly friendly with the locals unless they know them real well - they may take it the wrong way (generally their opinion of western women is that we all "hand it out, regularly"). If you have young family members it might be more fun to live in a gated community as they have swimming pools etc that the kids can enjoy (no one used the beaches when we were there). Great shopping facilities both British, American and local street markets. Tonnes of American restaurants most sell alcohol (if they have a license). Good luck, I am sure you will all enjoy your stay - our family had a great time.