How to Go from Bahrain Airport to Manama

Bahrain International Airport is the main gateway to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and it sits surprisingly close to the capital, Manama, just a short journey across the causeway. Getting from the airport into the city is quick and easy, with reliable taxis, ride-hailing apps, private transfers, and even public buses running throughout the day. Whether you’re heading straight to a hotel in Manama, exploring the souqs, or travelling onward across the island, the route is simple, and the options are straightforward. For a variety of reasons, we’ve done this route a few times now, and with a little planning, you can be out of the airport and into the city with zero stress.  Here’s my guide on going from Bahrain Airport to Manama, the main place you’ll stay for a short visit to Bahrain.

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The arrival experience for us was both smooth and fast.  We found immigration to be super quick, even with our visa on arrival, which is all done at the desk where your passport is stamped!  Our baggage was there waiting for us, and the whole airport was an oasis of calm. Once you’ve gone through arrivals and customs, it’s obvious where to buy a SIM card; there’s easy availability of cash with ATMs and currency exchanges, and the transport options are well-signed once you exit the arrivals hall. The biggest factor that will affect your journey time into Manama is traffic, especially around the Diplomatic Area and the Financial Harbor during peak hours. Otherwise, it’s an easy journey, and picking how you’ll make it depends on your budget, how much luggage you’re carrying, and whether you want the convenience of door-to-door travel or the cheaper—yet perfectly workable—public bus.  There’s also the consideration of course, of the time of your arrival, and the day of the week, as schedules and costs are different on Fridays.

Where is Manama Compared to the Airport?

Bahrain International Airport is located on Muharraq Island, just northeast of Manama. Muharraq was the original capital of Bahrain, and Manama is the current capital city.  The distance to the city centre is roughly 8 to 10 kilometers (around 5 to 6 miles), depending on where exactly you’re staying. Most car journeys from the airport into Manama take between 15 and 25 minutes, but this can be longer during rush hour or if you’re heading to busy areas like the Diplomatic Area or Juffair. The route itself is straightforward: leave Muharraq Island, cross the causeway, and you’re in the heart of the capital. It’s one of the easier airport-to-city transfers in the Gulf, which makes arriving in Bahrain pleasantly hassle-free.

How to Go from Bahrain Airport to Manama

There are five main ways to travel from Bahrain Airport to Manama: private transfers, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and public buses. I have included renting a car, because it’s relatively cheap, but if you’re just here for a short amount of time, then it’s probably more hassle than it’s worth.  Private transfers and taxis to Manama from the airport are the quickest and most convenient, especially if you’re arriving late at night or just want the easiest way in. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are also widely used and can sometimes work out cheaper than airport taxis, depending on demand.  There are even signs at the airport directing you to the right pickup location.

The public bus system is reliable and easy to use, with routes connecting the airport directly to key parts of the city. The schedules and routes are accurate on Google Maps (and the Google Maps app is way easier to use than the Bahrain transport website.  They do have an app, but honestly, you don’t need it.

Each transport option has its pros and cons, but they are all simple, safe, easy to use, and suitable for first-time visitors.

Transport Comparison: Bahrain Airport to Manama

Here’s a quick look at how the main transport options stack up when you’re choosing the best way into Manama.

• Taxis and private transfers are best for convenience and speed — they’ll get you straight to your hotel with zero fuss.
• Ride-hailing apps are usually slightly cheaper, especially outside peak times, and they’re handy if you prefer to track your driver through the app, or are worried that you don’t have any cash.
• Buses are by far the most budget-friendly option, but they take longer and aren’t ideal if you’re carrying lots of luggage or arriving either late at night or during rush hour, when they tend to be fuller.
• Travel times are mostly between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on where you’re headed, the time of day, and what mode of transport you use.

Taking a Private Transfer from Bahrain Airport to Manama

A private transfer is the easiest way to get from Bahrain Airport into Manama, especially if you want a guaranteed price, a driver waiting for you at arrivals, and zero stress after a long flight. You simply book ahead, and your driver tracks your landing time so there’s no panic if immigration or baggage takes a little longer. The ride into Manama usually takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic, and you’ll be dropped directly at your hotel or apartment. It’s a smooth, door-to-door option that works well for late-night arrivals, families, or anyone who just wants to get into the city without worrying about queues or payment methods. Most services also offer free cancellation, which adds some welcome flexibility to your travel plans.

Bahrain Airport to Manama Taxi

Taxis line right outside the arrivals hall, at the taxi rank – just follow the signs for taxis – making them one of the quickest ways to get into Manama. The airport uses a regulated taxi system with meters, and fares depend on distance, time of day, day of the week, and traffic.

The airport even publishes a list of rates that you can expect to pay to certain parts of Bahrain (for Manama is 6BD), but – there’s always a but – ask for the meter to be turned on, and expect some surcharges (included in that 6BD) that include:

• There’s a 1BD starting charge if you’re traveling from 06:00 – 22:00, this becomes 1.25 BD if you’re traveling from 22:000 until 06:00
• There’ a 2 BD charge specifically for leaving from the airport
• Rates are charged at 0.5 BD per kilometer
• If you’re coming back to the airport, then there’s a 1 BD charge for waiting at a hotel rank
• There’s an additional charge at weekends – remember Friday is the weekend here – and it’s 1.25 BD.  This charge also applies on public holidays
• There’s a 1 BD extra charge for Hijiri public holidays.

A tip of at least 10% for taxi drivers is expected in Bahrain.

Drivers generally prefer cash, though some cars accept card payments. Taxis run by Arabian taxis and Wasel tend to accept cards, but it’s always best to ask before getting in a car.  If you don’t have cash (and it needs to be Bahrain Dinar), then there are ATMs at the airport, and most ATM providers do NOT charge a fee here, or you can use a ride-hailing app, or prebook a transfer.

Using Ride-Hailing Apps at Bahrain Airport

Ride-hailing apps are widely used in Bahrain, and both Uber and Careem operate at Bahrain International Airport. There’s even a dedicated pickup area, and it is signposted.  The rate you pay will depend on demand and the time of day, but each time we‘ve looked at prices, it’s cheaper than the taxis.  Careem edges Uber on price, but it’s by less than 0.5 BD each time.

There’s also free WiFi at the airport, so even if you haven’t got yourself a SIM card or eSIM for Bahrain (which I recommend), you’ll be able to hail an Uber or a Careem.  The WiFi connection was still available to me while standing outside, right by the airport bus stop!

Bahrain ride-hailing apps are usually a little cheaper than taking an airport taxi, and you’ll know your fare before you even get in the car. After exiting arrivals, you’ll find clearly marked pickup zones where drivers meet passengers, and the apps will guide you to the correct spot. Waiting times are usually short, though they can stretch a bit during peak hours or late at night. It’s an easy, app-based option that works well if you prefer cashless payment, want to track your driver, or simply like knowing the exact route and cost ahead of time.

Taking the Bus from Bahrain Airport to Manama

If you want the cheapest way into Manama, the public bus is the best option. Bahrain’s bus network is modern and easy to use, and several routes connect the airport with key areas of the city — including the A1 bus, which runs to Manama Bus Terminal. Services are frequent throughout the day, and the journey typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Bus lines A1, A2, 10, and 11 all serve the airport in Bahrain, and it’s the A1 that goes to Manama.

Tickets are cheap, and you can pay using cash or the GO Card, Bahrain’s rechargeable transport card. Buses are air-conditioned and comfortable. For late-night flights or travellers with lots of luggage, taxis and ride-hailing apps are usually the easier choice.  The first buses run at 04:41 and the last at 23:17 – BUT check the timetable on Google, as it differs on Fridays and public holidays.

Our driver, the first time we went from the airport to the city, was the jerkiest, “accelerate, then brake sharply” bus driver we’ve ever had.  But then so was the second…

The timetable on Google is accurate, as are the stops.

Tickets on the bus from the airport cost 300 Fils (there are 1000 Fils in a Bahrain Dinar).  You can ONLY buy tickets on the bus at the airport from the driver and in cash.  Luckily, there are two ATMs (both dispensing Bahrain Dinar with no charges) between arrivals and Exit 4, which is where you pick up the bus.

The A1 bus, which goes to Manama bus terminal, leaves approximately every 20 minutes between 04:34 and 23:17 (depending on the day, check here).  It takes about 25 minutes to go from the airport to the Manama bus terminal.  When we took it at 12:45, there were only three of us on it; it did fill up a little more as we made other stops in towards the city.  There are only two specific spaces for luggage (near the driver), but there’s a standing space in the middle of the bus where bigger bags can go.

Buying tickets on the airport bus in Bahrain

1. Unless you have a Go Card (which you CANNOT buy at the airport), you will have to pay cash. 
2. Tickets cost 300 fils per person.  BD only.  The driver will have to change.
3. Your paper ticket is valid for that ride only.
4. If you’re getting off at any stop other than the Manama bus terminal, then press the bell, and the bus will stop.

There’s no display showing the next stop on these buses at this time, so have Google Maps open, or ask the driver (ours might have been a bad driver, but he was helpful), and the passengers were incredibly helpful too – and would NOT let us stand, and helped us find the next bus stop for our next bus.  It was a GREAT intro to Bahrain.

If, like us, you’re making a change and catching another bus, then you’ll need to buy a new paper ticket when you get on the next bus.  It’s a flat rate of 300 fils per person per ride.  If you’re planning on using the bus services, then you’d be wise to get yourself a GO card or a day pass, but you can only buy these from the ticket offices in the bus terminals in Manama, Isa Town, and Muharraq bus terminals.  There are also ticket vending machines in Manama, Isa Town, and Muharraq bus terminals, and at the University of Bahrain.

The GO card will cost you 1 BD, but it means that each ride you take costs 0.275 BD, and you’ll pay a maximum of 0.7 BD per day.  Again, you need to buy the card from one of the designated locations.

Car Rental at Bahrain Airport

Renting a car at Bahrain Airport is straightforward, with all the major international brands — plus a few local companies — operating directly from the arrivals hall. If you’re planning to explore more of the island or want full flexibility, hiring a car can be a good option. It’s the standard requirements: a valid driving licence, a passport, a credit card, and a deposit. Cars are typically in good condition, and you’ll find everything from compact vehicles to SUVs. Driving in Bahrain is relatively easy, although don’t expect other drivers to indicate or let you out if you do.  Parking is tough in the center of Manama, and you should check all posted signage for paid parking areas.

Arriving or Departing Bahrain Airport on a Friday

Fridays in Bahrain work a little differently, and it’s worth planning ahead if your flight lands early or you need to be at the airport before mid-morning. Public transport runs on a reduced schedule, and while the airport buses do run, they are less frequent.

Ride-hailing apps and taxis are your safest bet on Friday mornings, as they operate normally. Traffic is usually lighter earlier in the day and heavier around midday, so you’ll need to factor that into timing for arriving at the airport.  If you’re flying out early on a Friday, book a taxi or private transfer in advance to avoid waiting around.

You should also be aware that during events like the Bahrain Grand Prix, the traffic is particularly heavy and often at a standstill for hours at a time.  Also that when dignitaries are visiting, roads may be closed at short notice.

The Quickest Way to Get from Bahrain Airport to Manama

A private transfer is the quickest way to go from Bahrain airport to the city. It’s fast, direct, and you avoid any queues at the taxi stand. Your driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight across the causeway into the city, making it the most reliable choice.

The Easiest Way to Go to Manama from Bahrain Airport

Once again, a pre-booked private transfer is the simplest option. With a fixed price, no negotiation, and no need to handle cash after a flight, it gives you a smooth, door-to-door ride into Manama without any stress.

The Cheapest Way to Go from Bahrain Airport to Manama

The public bus is the best option for the least money. The A1 bus connects the airport to Manama for just 0.3 BD (US$0.80), making it an easy budget choice. It’s slower than taxis and not ideal with big bags, but don’t forget that if you need to connect to another bus, you’ll need to pay again.

Final Words on Getting from Bahrain Airport to Manama

Bahrain is one of the easiest destinations in the Gulf when it comes to airport transfers, thanks to short distances, reliable taxis, widely used ride-hailing apps, and a good bus network for cheap transport. Getting into Manama from Bahrain Airport is simple, stress-free, and close.  The transport system here is easy to navigate, people are helpful, and no matter how you travel from the airport to Manama, it’s a great experience.

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