We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Bahrain at this time due to the uncertain security situation and the threat of terrorist attack. Following a number of small bombings across Bahrainin which people have been killed and injured, Bahraini authorities advised residents and visitors to Bahrain to avoid all suspicious objects. Further such bombings could occur.

Recent incidents include:

• On 14 April 2013, gas cylinders were used to cause a vehicle explosion in the Financial Harbour district of Manama.
• On 14 February 2013, a small bomb exploded at a shopping centre and a larger bomb found on the Bahraini side of the King Fahd Causeway, which links Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, was defused.
• On 1 February 2013, a bomb exploded in the Jidhafs region, injuring three policemen.
• On 27 November 2012, an explosive device detonated in a trash container in the vicinity of the Indian Embassy in Adliya in Manama.
• On 5 November 2012, five home-made bombs exploded in two separate locations in Manama (Adliya and Qadaibiya districts, close to the CBD). Two people were killed, and a third critically injured. Bahraini authorities have advised residents and visitors to Bahrain to avoid all suspicious objects.
• On 27 June 2012, Bahraini authorities announced the seizure of over 100 kilograms of materials used to make explosives. Authorities said that the materials were intended for use in a mass casualty attack.
• On 4 December 2011, an explosion outside the British Embassy in Manama was caused by a device placed underneath a vehicle parked close to the Embassy.
• On 12 November 2011, the Bahraini Interior Ministry announced the arrest of five Bahraini citizens for allegedly planning terrorist attacks on individuals and targets including the King Fahad Causeway, Interior Ministry and Saudi Embassy.

Statements by international terrorists groups have called for attacks against Western interests in the Gulf region, including residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests. Commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners are possible terrorist targets. Attacks could occur at any time and could be directed against any locations known to be frequented by foreigners. Further attacks in the Arabian Peninsula, including Bahrain, cannot be ruled out.

Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers .

We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Bahrain due to the uncertain security situation.

Since February 2011, there have been an increasing number of violent clashes surrounding protests and funerals throughout Bahrain, including in Manama and in Shia villages. Demonstrations and disruptions are expected to continue. You should avoid all public gatherings and protests as they may turn violent. You should monitor local and international media for information on current political developments and regional tensions affecting your safety and security and follow the advice of local authorities.

Security forces have responded violently to some demonstrations. If you are in an area where a protest is occurring you should either leave the area, if it is safe to do so, or remain indoors and away from windows.

On 14 February 2013, there were violent protests in Bahrain, during which protestor was shot dead and a policeman was killed.

On 30 October 2012, Bahraini authorities announced the banning of all public rallies and gatherings. According to the authorities, any participants in illegal rallies or gatherings will face legal action. Australians should be aware that bystanders could get caught up in demonstrations and consequently could face arrest.

There continues to be a visible security presence in Bahrain, particularly around the city centre and Shia villages. You should follow the instructions of local authorities and security forces.

You should take particular care in the period surrounding Friday prayers and at night-time due to the potential for civil disturbances. Shia-majority areas, including the Sanabis area, Hamad town, Saar, Budaiya and the Sitra area, may continue to experience unrest. Visitors to Bahrain should reconsider their need to travel outside the central business area after nightfall and should restrict their movement to major routes at all times.

The Causeway to Saudi Arabia is open but may be subject to intermittent closure without notice should the security situation in Bahrain deteriorate further.

We are aware of reports of unauthorised roadblocks being formed in some communities.

Petty crime including pick pocketing and bag snatching does occur, particularly in the old market areas (souks).

Before you go, organise a variety of ways of accessing your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques and US dollars cash. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas.

Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

While travelling, don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.

As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority .

Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.

Please refer to our Air travel page for information about Aviation Safety and Security.

There are conservative standards of dress and behaviour in Bahrain. Any displays of disrespect for Islam will cause great offence. Men and women should dress modestly, with clothing that covers their elbows and knees, and take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Australians travelling to Muslim countries and countries with significant Muslim communities should take great care to respect religious and cultural sensitivities, rules and customs. Ramadan and Shia religious festivals are particularly sensitive times.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset is forbidden for Muslims. You should exercise discretion when eating during this period.

Hotels may refuse accommodation to couples unable to provide proof of marriage.

Public displays of affection may offend.

The Bahraini weekend is Friday - Saturday.

Bahrain does not recognise dual nationality. This may limit the ability of the Australian Government to provide consular assistance to Australian/Bahraini dual nationals who are arrested or detained.

Our Dual Nationals brochure provides further information for dual nationals.

Bahrain often experiences extremely high temperatures. During the hottest months of the year, the temperature can exceed 50?C.

Sand and dust storms occur regularly.

Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service . If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Australians are advised to respect wildlife laws and to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice.

For general information and tips on travelling with children see our Travelling with Children brochure.

If you are planning on placing your children in schools or child care facilities overseas we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or child care facilities in Australia.

Ideas on how to select child care providers are available from the smartraveller Children's Issues page , Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council .