Bahrain – Health Issues

What are the most common health issues and diseases in Bahrain?

A 2020 joint report by the Bahrain Ministry of Health, the United Nations, and associated partners found that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for roughly 75% of all deaths in Bahrain, equating to approximately 2,000 fatalities each year. This pattern closely mirrors the experience of other prosperous Gulf states and higher-income nations across Western Europe and North America, where conditions rooted in lifestyle choices have long surpassed infectious diseases as the principal drivers of ill health and premature death.

Cardiovascular disease stands as Bahrain’s single most prominent killer, accounting for around 49% of all NCD-related deaths. Cancer and diabetes also carry substantial weight, contributing 18% and 3% of deaths respectively. Notably, heart disease has occupied the top position among causes of death in Bahrain since the 1970s — a ranking that has remained stubbornly unchanged for decades.

Conditions affecting the heart and circulatory system are regarded as among the most consequential health challenges the country faces, with hypertension, elevated blood lipids, diabetes, tobacco use, and obesity all identified as major contributory factors. Estimates suggest that roughly one-third of the population is hypertensive and approximately 15% are living with diabetes.

Bahrain holds the dubious distinction of having one of the world’s highest rates of diabetes, placing fifth globally, with upwards of 15% of Bahrainis affected by the disease — a condition that accounts for around 5% of deaths nationally. Complications including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetes-related heart conditions are all well documented within the population.

Close to one in every five adults in Bahrain dies from a non-communicable disease before reaching the age of 70. In contrast, HIV and AIDS rates remain relatively contained compared to many regional neighbours, while malaria and tuberculosis present no significant threat, as neither condition is endemic to the country.

Is Bahrain considered a healthy country? How do health outcomes compare internationally?

By most measures, Bahrain delivers a high standard of living and healthcare to those who reside there, placing it firmly among the better-performing nations in the region. Key indicators align broadly with those of upper-middle-income European countries in terms of overall longevity, even as lifestyle diseases continue to exert considerable pressure on the healthcare system.

Life expectancy in Bahrain is estimated at 81.6 years, compared with a global average of 73.7 years based on the most recent United Nations data. Between 2000 and 2015, life expectancy across all sexes climbed from 72.9 to 77.2 years — a meaningful improvement attributable to investment in healthcare infrastructure and broader access to services. Readers are encouraged to consult the WHO Bahrain country profile or the Bahrain Ministry of Health for the most current figures, as these statistics are subject to periodic revision.

The crude mortality rate per 1,000 people declined from 3 in 2000 to 2.1 by 2015. The neonatal mortality rate stood at 3.6 per 1,000 live births in 2017, and the under-five mortality rate fell from 11.4 in 2000 to 7.9 in 2017 — figures that compare favourably with most regional counterparts.

A number of Bahraini cities have received the “Healthy City” designation from the WHO; Um Alhassam achieved this recognition in 2018, followed by the capital Manama, both acknowledged for meaningful progress in public health policy and healthcare delivery.

The maternal mortality rate — recorded at 14.6 per 100,000 live births in 2017 — ranks among the lowest worldwide, with the vast majority of births taking place in either public or private hospital settings. Nevertheless, Bahrain’s impressive demographic achievements exist alongside a substantial NCD burden, meaning that while residents tend to enjoy long lives, a significant share of those years may involve managing ongoing chronic conditions. Always verify the most recent data through the WHO or Bahrain’s national statistics office.

What infectious diseases or environmental health risks should expats be aware of in Bahrain?

Relative to many countries in the region, HIV and AIDS prevalence in Bahrain is contained, and neither malaria nor tuberculosis represents a meaningful threat, as both are non-endemic to the country. That said, several specific infectious disease and environmental health considerations warrant close attention from anyone planning an extended stay.

Bahrain enforces strict regulations concerning individuals residing in the country who are living with HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis B or C. Treatment for these conditions may not be locally available, and expatriates risk deportation or expulsion if medical authorities identify their status — even where the condition is well managed through medication or does not currently require treatment. Any individual with one of these diagnoses should obtain specific legal and medical counsel before making the decision to relocate.

Hepatitis B is considered to have intermediate to high prevalence in Bahrain. The virus spreads through blood, semen, and vaginal fluids — most commonly via sexual contact or blood-to-blood transmission, including through inadequately sterilised instruments during medical, dental, tattooing, or piercing procedures. Vaccination is strongly recommended for all long-term residents.

Hepatitis A, a viral illness transmitted through contaminated food or water or through close contact with an infected individual, tends to produce mild or absent symptoms in young children but can become considerably more serious in older adults. Vaccination is advised for those whose activities or lifestyle place them at heightened risk, including those who plan to live with or regularly visit local communities.

Yellow fever poses no transmission risk within Bahrain itself; however, travellers older than nine months arriving from countries where yellow fever transmission is a recognised risk are required to present proof of vaccination upon entry.

Rabies cannot be ruled out in Bahrain, and bats in the country may carry rabies-related viruses. Residents and visitors alike should avoid any contact with wild animals, and anyone who sustains a bite or scratch from an animal should seek immediate medical attention without delay.

From an environmental health perspective, air quality is a notable concern. Pollution can reach problematic levels, and NASA’s AI-based Air Quality Forecast tool offers three-day projections of anticipated air quality across Bahrain. The country’s climate is intensely hot, with temperatures frequently climbing above 49°C (120°F) throughout much of the year — conditions that can aggravate existing health problems and make outdoor activity impractical for extended periods. Dust storms, known locally as the “shamal,” periodically devastate air quality and can be particularly troublesome for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Expats should consult their home country’s official travel health authority before relocating — such as the UK’s NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro or the US CDC’s Travelers’ Health pages — and review the Bahrain Ministry of Health website for the most up-to-date immunisation guidance. Vaccination recommendations may shift over time, so always seek current advice from a qualified health professional.

Is smoking common in Bahrain, and what are the laws around it?

Over the past decade, Bahrain has progressively tightened its tobacco control legislation. Given that coronary disease has been identified as a primary health concern affecting the population, lawmakers have pursued regulatory measures aimed at improving national health outcomes. The framework that has emerged is broadly comparable to smoking legislation operating in much of Europe and Australia, combining sweeping bans in public spaces with restrictions on tobacco promotion.

The centrepiece of this regulatory framework is a prohibition on smoking or using any tobacco product in public spaces, encompassing all forms of public transport, educational institutions from schools to universities, entertainment venues, lifts, and places of worship. Venue managers carry a legal obligation to display visible no-smoking signage and are expected to actively enforce compliance with the ban.

Alongside restrictions on public smoking, Bahrain prohibits the advertising and promotion of all tobacco products — a category that extends beyond conventional cigarettes and cigars to include electronic cigarettes, hookahs, and chewing tobacco. Promoting any such product through billboards, commercial spots, or other advertising channels is a legal offence.

A dedicated provision also bans smoking in the presence of a child, particularly within an enclosed vehicle, as a specific measure to protect younger members of the population from passive exposure. Violations of these laws carry the risk of financial penalties and potential legal consequences.

Hookahs and water pipes retain cultural popularity in Bahrain, and research has indicated that even medical professionals smoke water pipes more frequently than cigarettes — despite the equally serious health risks associated with their use. Expats who have lived under strict indoor smoking bans in countries such as those across the European Union or in Australia will find Bahrain’s legislative framework broadly equivalent, though practical enforcement in informal social settings can be more inconsistent.

WHO survey data indicates that the prevalence of daily tobacco smoking has declined — falling by approximately 2% in the total number of adults who smoke daily since 2009. Among students, opposition to smoking is evident, with 75.5% expressing support for banning indoor smoking in public spaces.

Is obesity or poor diet a significant health concern in Bahrain?

Obesity represents one of the most urgent public health challenges confronting Bahrain today. A 2024 study published in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal recorded an overall obesity prevalence of 41.4% among the adult population examined. Unhealthy eating habits, combined with the finding that approximately 72.4% of individuals are either overweight or obese, have significantly compounded the development of chronic disease across the country. For perspective, the global average for adult obesity sits at roughly 13% according to WHO figures — making Bahrain’s rates strikingly elevated by international standards.

Widespread consumption of fast food, combined with broadly sedentary lifestyles, underlies much of this burden. These trends are reinforced from an early age: school canteens commonly stock high-fat, high-carbohydrate options, and children frequently gravitate between meals towards items such as chips, chocolate, and fizzy drinks that are low in micronutrients and dietary fibre.

Physical inactivity compounds the problem further, with just over half of the population reporting activity levels that fall short of recommended guidelines. The country’s extreme climate — with temperatures exceeding 49°C for a large portion of the year — makes sustained outdoor exercise genuinely difficult, creating a challenging environment for those who would ordinarily rely on walking, cycling, or other outdoor pursuits to remain physically active.

Despite growing public acknowledgement of obesity as a serious health concern, 46.4% of those surveyed in one study did not regard it as a medical condition, and most individuals who had made weight-loss attempts viewed obesity as a matter of personal lifestyle rather than clinical illness. With an adult obesity rate of 41.4%, there is a clear and recognised need for targeted national campaigns to build understanding — across all age groups — of the health consequences of excess weight.

The government has put in place programmes and initiatives to encourage healthier living and reduce tobacco use, among other interventions. The Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes campaign, for example, was launched to help communities identify and prevent diabetes, having reached more than six million people across Gulf states by 2015. Expats should be mindful that fast food outlets are widespread and easily accessible throughout Bahrain, and that maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet will likely require deliberate and consistent effort.

What are the mental health attitudes and services like in Bahrain?

Mental health is gaining recognition as an important area of concern in Bahrain, yet stigma remains a significant barrier. Awareness of the value of seeking professional support is growing, but many individuals still hold back out of fear of social judgement or discrimination. While the government has made strides in expanding mental health services, meaningful work remains to dismantle the cultural hesitancy that surrounds this area of healthcare.

Unlike nations with universal healthcare frameworks — such as France’s Sécurité Sociale or the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, which integrate mental health provision within freely accessible public services — Bahrain’s system places greater reliance on insurance coverage, employer support, or out-of-pocket payments, particularly for expatriates seeking care.

The Bahrain Mental Health Society is a non-profit body dedicated to raising mental health awareness and providing support to those experiencing difficulties. It offers counselling and therapeutic services, as well as peer support groups. The Bahrain Medical Society, a national organisation representing the country’s medical professionals, maintains a directory of members — many of whom deliver mental health services in various settings.

The Ministry of Health provides a range of publicly accessible mental health services, including counselling, therapy, and group support. A number of private clinics and therapy centres also operate across the country, offering sessions in multiple languages to accommodate the diverse expatriate population. Several non-profit bodies and community health clinics supplement these provisions.

Expats who have previously accessed seamlessly integrated public mental health systems may find that navigating Bahrain’s services requires greater individual initiative. It is advisable to confirm the extent of mental health coverage offered under your employer’s insurance policy or your own private plan prior to arrival, and to identify relevant private providers in your intended area of residence in advance.

Are there any health risks specific to expats living in Bahrain?

Expats moving to Bahrain encounter a range of health adjustments that extend well beyond the concerns typically associated with short-term travel. The intersection of intense heat, unfamiliar dietary environments, a culture built around car use, and separation from established support networks can all take a toll on both physical and psychological wellbeing.

The climate presents an immediate challenge, with temperatures routinely climbing above 49°C for much of the year. These conditions aggravate pre-existing health conditions and make outdoor exercise impractical for extended periods. Newcomers are especially susceptible to heat exhaustion and dehydration during their first summer. Staying consistently hydrated, steering clear of outdoor exertion during the hottest part of the day — generally May through September — and allowing adequate time to acclimatise are all essential precautions.

Air quality constitutes a further concern. Dust storms, airborne sand particles, and industrial emissions can adversely affect individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. Monitoring daily air quality forecasts — available through tools such as NASA’s Air Quality Forecast system — is particularly advisable for those with underlying lung conditions.

Bahrain maintains strict policies regarding individuals living with HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis B or C, and expatriates face the risk of deportation or expulsion should medical authorities identify their status — including in cases where the condition is well controlled through treatment. Anyone managing one of these diagnoses must take detailed legal and medical advice before committing to a relocation to Bahrain.

Under the National Social Health Insurance Programme (Sehati), Bahraini nationals and domestic workers receive government-funded health coverage, while other expatriate workers are typically covered through employer-provided schemes. Expats should examine their employment health insurance policy carefully to understand its scope, and should consider arranging supplementary private coverage for services not included. Registering with a local primary health centre promptly after arrival is strongly advisable.

Dietary transition can present its own challenges: Bahrain’s food environment is heavily skewed towards fast food chains and large shopping centre restaurants. Those accustomed to diets rich in fresh produce and lower in refined carbohydrates may need to make a deliberate and sustained effort to source and prepare more nutritious meals, especially in the early period of settling in.

Where can expats find reliable health information and services in Bahrain?

The foremost official resource for health information in Bahrain is the Bahrain Ministry of Health, which publishes guidance on chronic disease management, vaccination schedules, public health campaigns, and the locations of health centres across the country. The Ministry’s website is accessible in both Arabic and English, making it straightforward for English-speaking expats to navigate.

Residents can book medical appointments online for general practice consultations at health centres — an accessible and practical route into primary care for newly arrived expats seeking to register with local services.

For health planning ahead of departure, your home country’s official travel health authority is the appropriate starting point. The UK’s NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro offers comprehensive, regularly refreshed guidance on recommended vaccinations, disease risks, and health precautions specific to Bahrain. Those from other countries should refer to their equivalent national body — such as the US CDC’s Travelers’ Health pages or the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control — for advice calibrated to their personal immunisation history.

The WHO Bahrain country profile provides internationally comparable data on life expectancy, mortality rates, and disease burden, serving as a credible reference for population health statistics. The WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) additionally publishes country-specific public health research and policy updates relating to Bahrain.

The Bahrain Mental Health Society offers counselling, therapeutic services, and support groups for those navigating mental health challenges. Private healthcare institutions such as Bahrain Specialist Hospital operate specialist clinics covering infectious diseases, travel health, and the management of chronic conditions.

Health guidance, vaccination requirements, insurance regulations, and disease notifications are all subject to change. Expats are strongly encouraged to verify current information through official channels both prior to relocating and at regular intervals after settling in. The Bahrain Ministry of Health and the WHO’s disease outbreak news portal represent the most authoritative references for country-specific health alerts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Issues in Bahrain

Is the tap water safe to drink in Bahrain?

Tap water in Bahrain undergoes treatment and technically satisfies safety standards, yet the majority of residents — both nationals and expatriates — opt for bottled or filtered water due to concerns about desalination by-products and the condition of older pipe infrastructure. Drinking bottled water and using it when brushing teeth is a widely adopted precaution, particularly during the initial period after arrival.

Do I need any vaccinations before moving to Bahrain?

There is no risk of yellow fever within Bahrain itself; however, travellers arriving from countries where yellow fever transmission is a recognised risk are required to present valid proof of vaccination. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for individuals whose activities or circumstances place them at elevated risk, and Hepatitis B vaccination is similarly advisable given the country’s intermediate-to-high prevalence of the virus. Always consult a qualified travel health professional and review the latest guidance from your home country’s official travel health authority before departure.

How does the heat in Bahrain affect health?

Bahrain’s climate is extremely hot, with temperatures routinely exceeding 49°C for a significant portion of the year — conditions that exacerbate pre-existing health problems and make sustained outdoor activity very difficult. Newly arrived residents should approach heat acclimatisation seriously: drink fluids consistently, refrain from outdoor exercise during peak afternoon temperatures in summer, and choose loose, breathable clothing. People living with cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions, or diabetes face particular vulnerability.

What is the biggest health risk for expats in Bahrain?

For the majority of expats, the most significant long-term health risk is not an infectious disease but rather a lifestyle-related one. Low levels of physical activity and unhealthy eating habits — set against a backdrop of high rates of overweight and obesity — have driven chronic disease prevalence upward across the country. Committing to regular physical activity (preferably in an indoor setting during summer), following a nutritionally balanced diet, attending routine health screenings, and actively managing stress represent the most impactful steps expats can take to protect their long-term wellbeing.

Are mental health services available in multiple languages?

Several private counselling and therapy practices in Bahrain provide mental health services in multiple languages. Given the large and culturally varied expatriate community in the country, many private clinics employ practitioners fluent in Arabic, English, and a range of other languages. It is advisable to contact individual providers directly to confirm language options before making an appointment.

Is Bahrain’s healthcare system accessible to expats?

Under the National Social Health Insurance Programme (Sehati), expatriate workers are generally covered by their employer’s scheme, granting most working expats access to healthcare through their company’s policy. However, the extent and quality of coverage varies considerably between employers and policy types. Expats who are self-employed or whose employment does not include health coverage will need to arrange independent private health insurance. Reviewing your policy in detail before you require medical attention is strongly recommended.

How does diabetes prevalence in Bahrain compare to other countries?

Bahrain ranks fifth globally for diabetes prevalence, with more than 15% of the Bahraini population affected by the disease — placing it among the most heavily impacted countries in the world. By way of comparison, the global average for adult diabetes prevalence stands at approximately 10.5% as of 2021, according to the International Diabetes Federation. Expats with a family history of diabetes or who have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes should make regular blood glucose monitoring a priority after relocating.

Where can I get up-to-date health advice about living in Bahrain?

The most authoritative and reliable sources are the Bahrain Ministry of Health, the WHO Bahrain country profile, and your home country’s designated travel health authority. For accessing day-to-day healthcare services after arriving in Bahrain, your employer’s health insurer and local health centres provide the most practical starting points. Health guidance, vaccination requirements, and disease alerts are all subject to change, so consulting these sources on a regular basis is advised.