Manama - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Generally widely accepted, but it depends on what type of business you are dealing with. A nice restaurant, Starbucks, or a store inside the malls - then of course they take credit cards. Local places inside the "souq," or cheaper South Asian restaurants - then definitely not. ATMs are safe as far as I know, however I had my American debit card rejected by many of the Middle Eastern banks. Best to save yourself hassle and look for an international bank like Standard Chartered, HSBC, or Citibank. - Apr 2017
We use our credit card everywhere and have never had a problem. - Nov 2015
Most places take credit cards. I would not use an ATM due to high costs. You can cash checks at the Embassy. - Aug 2014
We use both without problem. Beware of foreign transaction fees. - Sep 2012
It's safe. I've been here a year and have had no problems. - Apr 2010
Safe, I use both. - Jun 2009
Just like the U.S. and other places, safe and secure because eventually they are managed by the same firms. Plus credit card fraud less of an issue here than in the U.S. - Dec 2008
I always hold my breath when I use my cards. Geant somehow swiped my card 5 times and managed to freeze my card. I'd carry cash, but everything is so expensive that you'd end up carrying over US$500 in you wallet. - Aug 2008
