Road Trip From Kuwait To Bahrain Via Saudi: Travel Guide

A few years ago, a family friend moved from Kuwait to Bahrain, and with Saudi Arabia easing visa restrictions for GCC expats, we thought the Eid holidays were the perfect time to visit him.

What You Need to Check Before Traveling to Bahrain

Eligibility and Document Requirements

Who Can Travel?

GCC Nationals: Citizens of GCC countries, including Kuwaitis, do not require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia or Bahrain.

Expatriates in GCC: Expatriates residing in GCC countries need to ensure their civil ID and passport are valid for at least 3 and 6 months respectively.

Getting Saudi Visa by Saudi visa portal 

Expatriate with an Indian passport looking to obtain a Saudi visa quickly and conveniently. Look no further than the official Saudi visa portal at https://visa.visitsaudi.com/. Here's what you need to do:

• Provide a passport photo against a white background.

• Submit copies of your passport's front and last pages, ensuring a validity of at least 6 months.

• Include a copy of your civil ID with a minimum validity of 3 months.

With these documents, you can secure your Saudi visa in as little as 30 minutes! Opt for a one-year multiple entry visa for maximum flexibility, costing approximately 32 KD. This visa allows you to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times, with a maximum stay of 90 days .

Alternatively, you can enlist the services of an agent for the same cost of 38 KD. Whether you choose the online portal or an agent, obtaining your Saudi visa has never been easier or more efficient.

Saudi eVisa Information:

• eVisa Price: SAR 300 (approximately USD 80).

• Application Fee: SAR 39.44 (around USD 10.50).

• Medical Insurance Fees: Not included in the visa cost, its cost varies depending on the provider.

• Entry Options: Multiple entry or single entry determined by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

• Validity: The multiple entry visa remains valid for one year from the date of issue, permitting stays of up to 90 days each.

Key Requirements to Apply for a Saudi eVisa: 

• Residency Visa: Ensure you hold a residency visa from any GCC country with a validity of at least three months beyond your intended entry into Saudi Arabia.

• Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months beyond your planned entry date into Saudi Arabia.

• Under 18 Travelers: If you're under 18, your parent or guardian must apply for the eVisa on your behalf.

When you are applying for Saudi eVisa, follow these straightforward steps:

Select :

• Visa Type = Tourism Visit

• Current Nationality = India

• Country of Residence = Kuwait

• Nearest Saudi Mission = Kuwait

• Number of Entries = Multiple

• Visa Validity = 365 Days

• Duration Of Stay = 90

Select: A “valid” residence for no less than three months in the GCC countries. Fill the remaining details correctly.

Upload Documents: After completing the application, upload scanned copies of your passport and either your permanent residency card or visa copy.

Things to Check Before Traveling

1. Passports and IDs: Make sure you have your passports, civil IDs, dafter and copies of your Saudi visa.

2. Clear All Pending Payments: Check for any pending payments such as electricity bills, phone bills, or traffic fines. Clear these before you travel to avoid being stopped at the border.

3. Biometric Verification: Ensure your biometrics are done; otherwise, you might have to complete this at the border.

4. Internet Connection: Having a reliable internet connection is essential, especially for emergencies. Here are some options to stay connected:

• Ooredoo: Consider Ooredoo's Passport Lite plan, offering 15 GB of high-speed data and 10 roaming minutes, valid for 10 days across all countries. which would cost 10 KD

• STC: With an STC SIM, you can access 2 GB of daily roaming data for one week at just 7 KD, usable in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

• Airalo eSIM (https://ref.airalo.com/6BP6 @airalocom): Explore the convenience of eSIMs from Airalo. If your phone supports eSIMs, you can enjoy seamless connectivity with their data packs.

5. Financial Preparations: Carry cash in Saudi Riyals and Bahraini Dinars. In some places, cards aren't accepted, and you might face high conversion charges. One major oversight during my trip was forgetting to bring any cash with me. This became a problem when I needed to transfer 300 KD to my friend's Bahraini account using Almulla Exchange. Despite completing the transfer, my friend didn't receive the funds even after a week had passed.

Petrol and Stops

Alfa Petrol Station: Fill your tank to the brim here, as it should comfortably last your journey all the way to Bahrain and possibly beyond.

On your return trip to Kuwait, remember to refuel your tank in Bahrain rather than in Saudi Arabia. Bahrain's petrol tends to be slightly cheaper, offering better value for your money.

Last Stop Before the Border: Before reaching the border, make sure to make a pit stop for coffee or food at the McDonald's located on Road 40. It's a convenient spot to refuel yourself before continuing your journey.

Border Procedures

Upon reaching the Kuwait border, you'll encounter three arches: Entrance, Customs, and Passport.

• Pass through the entrance arch and proceed to Customs. Here, officials will inspect your documents, including your daftar and civil ID. They'll provide you with a paper, so keep it handy.

• If your biometric data hasn't been recorded yet, stop your car on the left after passing through Customs to complete the process. It's a quick procedure.

• Afterward, head to Kuwait immigration. Officers will verify your passport, civil IDs, and ensure there are no outstanding payments. Depending on the number of travelers in your group, they'll issue slips that you'll need to present at the exit.

At Saudi Border Entrance

When you arrive at the Saudi border entrance, you'll need to go through Saudi immigration. If it's your first time traveling, after leaving Kuwait, you'll see a tent on the right side. Stop there. Everyone in your group will have their fingerprints and photos taken. They'll also check your visas and passports. This can take a while. And remember, kids who are 5 years or older have to give their fingerprints too.

Saudi Insurance

Once you've cleared Saudi customs, the next step is getting Saudi insurance. It's a requirement based on your length of stay. You can conveniently purchase it online through the provided link: https://manafith.najm.sa/. The prices vary depending on the duration:

• One week: 120 Riyals

• Two weeks: 200 SAR

• One month: 250 SAR

• Three months: 400 SAR

• Six months: 900 SAR

• Twelve months: 1200 SAR

Please note that the prices listed above don't include VAT.

Once you're in Saudi, keep an eye out for a mosque on your right. Nearby, you'll find the washrooms.

Saudi Border to Saudi Exit 

The drive from the Saudi border to the exit takes about 3 hours. Your next washroom break should be at the Saudi-Bahrain border. Along the way, there might not be many good washroom options, so it's best to plan accordingly. In case of emergency, you can stop at petrol pumps where you can find food and washrooms.

Also, if you're using WhatsApp, it works in Saudi Arabia using either an eSIM or STC roaming data. However, if you're using a local Saudi SIM card, WhatsApp calling might be blocked.

Also, be aware that there are no lights on Saudi roads. Ensure both your car lights are in good working condition for safety.

When you're nearing the Saudi-Bahrain border, remember:

If you're traveling from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, you must have vehicle insurance. The price of Bahrain insurance depends on how long you're staying: 2.7 BD for 3 days, and 8.5 BD for 10 days, with rates varying for longer stays.

Bahrain Visa

When you arrive in Bahrain, you can get a visa upon arrival without any charge. They'll stamp your visa in your passport and provide slips for each person in your group.

Remember, there's a causeway fee you'll need to pay for each direction of travel. It's 25 Saudi Riyals or 2.5 Bahrain Dinars.

During our trip, we explored:

• LPOD Water Park, a thrilling destination priced at approximately 25 KD for adults and 12 KD for kids. (For a more budget-friendly option, consider Bay Zero in Kuwait for 6 KD.)

• Marissa Aquarium, where admission is 5.5 BD per person. (Alternatively, the Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre in Kuwait offers a richer experience at 3 KD.)

• Enjoyed an Indian movie that hadn't been released in Kuwait, without any cuts, for 3.5 BD, which is the same price as in Kuwait.

• Tree Of Life: In the middle of the desert, there's a really special tree called the Tree of Life. It's super old, like 441 years old, and it's really rare. People say it's amazing to be near it because it feels so good. There's a story that if you give some water to the tree and make a wish, it might come true. If it does, you're supposed to come back and say thank you to the tree. So, it's like a special place where wishes might come true!

Liquor Shopping

When traveling by means other than flight, like driving into Bahrain, duty-free shopping isn't an option. That's why many people's first stop in Bahrain is at wine shops!

For your liquor shopping needs, check out these popular spots:

• BMMI Shops - Link to map 

• A&E Shop (African and Eastern) - Link to map 

Nightlife in Bahrain

Bahrain boasts a vibrant and eclectic nightlife scene, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. From chic lounges and rooftop bars to lively nightclubs and beachfront venues, there's something for everyone to enjoy after dark. 

List of Pubs and Clubs in Bahrain with GPS Location and Contact Numbers:

1. Ibrida:   Location | Instagram | Call: +97336897378

2. Club Wrangler:   Location | Call: +97332324900

3. Cigar Lounge:   Location | Call: +97316000000

4. W Club Lounge:   Location | Call: +97337747748

5. Apollo Club Bahrain:   Address: Building 670, Road 2411, Block 324, Alsafir Hotel & Tower, Juffair, Bahrain | Call: +97335345434

6. Klub 360:   Location | Call: +97338111360

7. Stage Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97377900777

8. Elements Pool & Lounge InterContinental Regency Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317227777

9. Camelot:   Location | Call: +97339977540

10. Blue Moon Lounge:   Location | Call: +97317115046

11. JJ's Irish Restaurant:   Location | Call: +97333843005

12. Tarino:   Location | Call: +97335608392

13. McGettigan’s Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317000415

14. Gallery 21 Rooftop Bar:   Location | Call: +97317711600

15. Calexico Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317666644

16. The Burlington Club Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317586453

17. LNT Gastro Pub Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317246777

18. Grand Yard House Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97333412510

19. Meisei Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317007770

20. Downtown Bar Bahrain:   Location | Call: +97317227777

Final Tips

• Ensure your vehicle’s lights are in good condition, as some roads in Saudi do not have street lighting.

• Keep in mind that while WhatsApp calls are typically blocked in Saudi, they work with certain data plans.

• This trip not only allowed us to reconnect with a dear friend but also helped us explore the beautiful landscapes and cultural offerings of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Whether you’re visiting family, performing Umrah, or just sightseeing, this route offers a rich travel experience.

FAQ

1. Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa in Saudi Arabia?

Ans: Any type of visa will allow travelers to perform Umrah. Don’t forget to book your Umrah appointment through Nusuk platform.

Traveling by road from Kuwait to Bahrain via Saudi Arabia involves crossing international borders, which can raise several common questions among travelers:

2. What documents do I need for the journey?

Ans: You'll need a valid passport, a visa for Saudi Arabia, and potentially for Bahrain if your nationality requires it. Ensure your vehicle's registration and insurance are valid and cover international travel in these countries.

3. Is my driving license valid in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain?

Ans: A Kuwaiti driving license is usually accepted in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain but carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended as it facilitates dealings with local authorities.

4. What are the road conditions like?

Ans: The roads between these countries are generally in good condition, especially the major highways like the King Fahd Causeway that connects Saudi Arabia to Bahrain.

5. What are the customs and immigration procedures?

Ans: At each border, you will need to clear customs and immigration. This may involve vehicle inspections and showing travel documents. Be aware of what you can and cannot bring into each country, especially regarding alcohol, medications, and religious materials.

6. How long does the border crossing take?

Ans: The duration can vary based on the time of day, week, and year. Expect longer waits during holidays and religious events like Hajj season.

7. What should I know about driving laws in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain?

Ans: Adhere strictly to local driving laws. Speed limits and other traffic regulations are enforced rigorously. Note that Saudi Arabia, in particular, has stringent penalties for traffic violations.

8. Is it safe to travel by road?

Ans: Yes, but it's best to travel during daylight hours and stay informed about regional security conditions. Road safety standards can differ, so remain cautious and alert, especially at night.

9. What emergency numbers should I have?

Ans: Keep handy the emergency numbers for police, medical assistance, and roadside help for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, as well as contact details for your embassy.

10. What cultural norms should I respect?

Ans: Both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are conservative countries. Dress modestly, especially when exiting the vehicle in public and border areas and be respectful of Islamic customs and local traditions.

11. Are there any specific routes I should follow or avoid?

The most straightforward route involves the King Fahd Causeway directly from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain. Stay updated on travel advisories that may suggest route changes due to construction or security issues.

Before setting off on your journey, it's a good idea to check the latest travel advisories, road conditions, and specific entry requirements for each country to ensure a smooth trip.

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