Your Guide to Traveling from Qatar to Bahrain by Road

If you’re considering a road trip to Bahrain from Qatar, there’s a wealth of information you need to navigate your journey smoothly. Traveling from Qatar to Bahrain, you’ll traverse through Saudi Arabia, as there is no direct border. Here’s what you need to know.

The Journey

Route Overview

1. Exiting Qatar: Start your journey by crossing the Abu Samra border to enter Saudi Arabia.
2. King Fahd Causeway: After clearing Saudi immigration, you will drive across the King Fahd Causeway, a stunning 25 km bridge that connects Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

Visa Requirements

Bahrain Visa

Before hitting the road, ensure your visa arrangements are complete. For those travelling to Bahrain, here are the essential details:

• Eligibility: GCC residents can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online unless classified as a ‘labourer.’
• Online Application: Use the e-visa portal to determine eligibility and submit your application.
• Visa Requirements:
  • Passport copy
  • GCC resident permit (valid for three months)
  • Hotel reservation or ID copy of the host
• Cost: The two-week e-visa costs approximately QR 87 (BD 9), covering both application and visa fees.

Saudi Arabia Visa

To enter Saudi Arabia from Qatar, you will need a visa. Here are your options:

• Online Application: Apply through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or at the Tasheer visa center in Doha.
• Transit Visa: Valid for 96 hours, but not recommended for regular travel.
• Cost: The e-visa will be QR 290.59 (SAR 300), excluding medical insurance.

Medical and Vehicle Insurance

Medical Insurance

• Saudi Arabia: Mandatory for entry. Starts at QR 36.5 ($10) but varies among providers.
• Bahrain: Not mandatory, but it’s wise to have coverage.

Vehicle Insurance

Both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain require vehicle insurance:

• Saudi Arabia: Available at the Abu Samra border or via the ‘Najm Manafith’ app.
• Bahrain: Purchase online or at entry points; costs start at QR 26.08 (BD 2.7) for one week.

Step-by-Step Travel Process

1. Crossing the Abu Samra Border

• Complete the necessary checks at Qatar immigration to leave the country.
• After crossing, you will enter Saudi Arabia; be prepared to validate documents at Saudi immigration.

2. Reaching the King Fahd Causeway

• After completing the Saudi entry procedures, you’ll drive to the King Fahd Causeway.
• Pay the toll fee (starting at QR 24.27) using a debit or credit card—cash is not accepted.

3. Arriving in Bahrain

• Upon entering Bahrain, provide personal and vehicle documents at the immigration office.
• First-time entrants will complete biometrics, while return travelers may skip this step.

Exiting Bahrain and Returning to Qatar

When you’re ready to return:

• Stop at the toll gate on the Bahrain side before crossing back via the Causeway.
• Provide personal documents at the Bahrain customs, followed by a vehicle check.

Route Back to Qatar

Options for Returning: Multiple routes exist, including the newly opened Al Uqayr-Salwa coastal road, which allows for faster travel back to Qatar.

Practical Travel Tips

• Total Journey Time: Expect around 5 to 7 hours based on traffic and immigration times.
• Fuel Stops: Make sure to refuel at adequate stations, with options available before the Abu Samra border and throughout Saudi Arabia.

Important Contacts

• Qatar Abu Samra Border Customs: +974 4471 4639
• Bahrain Immigration Services: +973 1713 9292
• King Fahd Causeway Authority: +966 13 853 8237 (Saudi) | +973 1779 6300 (Bahrain)

Conclusion

Navigating the road from Qatar to Bahrain can be an adventurous experience. With the right preparation and understanding of the requirements, your trip can be pleasant and hassle-free. Happy travels!