Bahrain - Travel Report

Bahrain is a modern and developed country. It is a hereditary kingdom governed by the Al-Khalifa family and a council of ministers. In 2002, the country became a monarchy with a constitution that reinstated a legislative body, one of whose chambers is elected. The average GDP of Bahrain is $11.38 billion (2003 est). Petroleum production and processing accounts for 30% of the GDP. The primary markets for Bahraini products are India, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea. The predominant religion in Bahrain is Shi’a Muslim, therefore a majority of the population observes traditional Shi’a Muslim customs and holidays. Currency can be exchanged at the airports, most hotels, banks and bureaux de change. Credit cards are generally accepted, although you should inquire with your financial institution for acceptability. There are no restrictions on importation or exportation of local or foreign currency.