Bus & Taxi in Bahrain
Taxis
There are plenty of taxis in Bahrain, you can flag them down on the street. The taxicabs are easy to identify, they have orange markings and carry a 'Taxi' sign on the roof.
All taxis should operate with a meter by law. But sometimes it is necessary to kindly remind the driver to turn his meter on.
The standard minimum fare is 800 fils ($2.10). It covers the first three kilometres, after which you pay 100 fils (25 cents) for every subsequent kilometre. At night (from 2200 until 0600), the minimum fare is BD 1.200 ($3.10) for the first three kms and 150 fils for every kilometre after. If you are coming from the airport there is an extra charge of BD1 ($2.60) in addition to the meter fare. This fee applies from the airport only.
You can ask the driver for a printed receipt if you require. Tips are not expected, but most customers offer 100 to 200 fils (25-50 cents).
For your own information, you should get a copy of the booklet Taxi Fares and Tourist Information Guide, which is available free at the tourist office. The booklet contains a complete list of the official taxi rates in both Arabic and English. However, the official fares do increase between midnight and 05:00 am.
Shared Taxis
A cheaper alternative is the 'shared taxi' - these are usually pick-up trucks - which run pre-determined routes and charge about half what you would otherwise pay. You can identify these with the yellow sticker on the door. Since these taxis are 'shared', sometimes up to five passengers are crammed into each vehicle. No tips are expected.
Radio Taxis
Can be ordered over the phone, at any time of day or night. They are very reliable and charge only a little more than regular taxis. Radio taxis are metered and tips are not expected but welcomed.
Buses
As Bahrain is relatively small, it is not a difficult place to get around. There is a good bus system which links most of the towns on the island to both Manama and Muharraq. The fare is normally a flat 50 fils per trip.
Buses run from 5.30 or 6.30 in the morning until about 9.30 in the evening. There is some variation in both trip frequency and beginning and ending of service times. These can be verified at the terminals in either Manama and Muharraq.
Tourist Buses
There are several companies that organise air-conditioned bus tours to popular sight-seeing destinations. It is a comfortable way to view the sights and you will not get lost. You will also learn a great deal about Bahrain's history!
