Bahrain's International Dialing Code
To call Bahrain from abroad, dial the international access prefix (e.g., 011 from the U.S., 00 from Europe), then +973, followed by the local number.
Format: +973 + [mobile/landline number]
Example: +973 1234 5678
Calling Bahraini Landlines
Most landlines in Bahrain use 8-digit numbers. Drop any leading zero when dialing from abroad.
| City / Region | International Format |
|---|---|
| Manama | +973 17XX XXXX |
| Muharraq | +973 17XX XXXX |
| Riffa | +973 17XX XXXX |
| Other areas | +973 17XX XXXX |
Within Bahrain, dial the full 8-digit number directly.
Calling Bahraini Mobiles
Mobile numbers in Bahrain follow the pattern 3XXX XXXX or 6XXX XXXX. No leading zero is needed when calling internationally.
| Network | Common Prefixes | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Batelco | 36XX, 37XX | +973 36XX XXXX |
| Zain | 33XX, 34XX | +973 33XX XXXX |
| STC (Viva) | 38XX, 39XX | +973 38XX XXXX |
Tip: Save numbers in your contacts with +973 so roaming phones dial correctly.
Buying a SIM or eSIM in Bahrain
| Provider | Where to Buy | Tourist Bundles | ID Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batelco | Bahrain International Airport, Batelco stores | 5–30 GB packages, voice + data | Passport |
| Zain | Bahrain International Airport, Zain shops | Combo bundles with data + local minutes | Passport |
| STC | Selected electronics stores | 4G packages with data | Passport |
- Registration is mandatory—bring your physical passport.
- eSIMs are available for select phones at major carrier stores.
- Mobile payment services can be activated on tourist SIMs for cashless payments.
Network Coverage & Internet
- 4G/LTE: Manama, major cities, and tourist areas.
- 5G: Available in major urban areas.
- 3G: Most regions and highways.
- Wi-Fi: Hotels, cafes, and coworking hubs offer reliable connections, but mobile data is more consistent on road trips.
Recommended setup for travelers:
- Primary line: local SIM for data + local calls.
- Backup: eSIM or roaming line for banking 2FA.
- Portable router if traveling with a group.
Emergency Numbers & Helpful Contacts
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose police / emergency | 999 | Works nationwide; free from any phone. |
| Fire brigade | 999 | Unified emergency number. |
| Medical ambulance | 999 | Government emergency medical service. |
| Tourist info | +973 1729 5555 | Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority. |
Dial these numbers directly inside Bahrain—no need to prefix +973.
Other International Codes for Bahrain
| Code Type | Value |
|---|---|
| ISO Alpha-2 | BH |
| ISO Alpha-3 | BHR |
| Numeric Code | 048 |
| Internet TLD | .bh |
| Currency | BHD (Bahraini dinar) |
| ICAO Country Prefix | OB |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need +973 when calling within Bahrain?
No. Dial the number directly (e.g., 36XX XXXX) for domestic calls.
Can I keep my foreign WhatsApp number?
Yes. Install a local SIM for data/voice but keep WhatsApp tied to your home number for continuity.
Is roaming expensive?
International roaming works but is costly; buying a local SIM or eSIM is far cheaper.
Are there phone booths?
Public booths are rare. Use hotel phones, mobile networks, or VoIP apps.
Can I top up with cash?
Yes. Airtime scratch cards and mobile payment agents are available—look for carrier-branded kiosks.
Do emergency numbers accept English?
Yes. Operators typically speak Arabic and English.
Save these codes before you fly and you'll stay seamlessly connected across Manama, Muharraq, and other destinations in Bahrain.