Manama - Post Report Question and Answers
Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
I am pretty sure U.S. Embassy personnel weren't allowed to take the buses, regardless, the buses don't go anywhere, and are impossible to figure out (were only used by third country migrant workers). Taxis are safe, but not super cheap - and they had recently started an Uber service, however there were frequently no cars available. - Apr 2017
Taxis are safe and clean, and Uber is used here by expats with no issues - Sep 2016
There really isn't local transport. You can hire a taxi, but they are quite pricey. You are better off to definitely bring your car and get ready for some defensive driving. - Nov 2015
No trains, buses are off limits. Taxis are plentiful but very very expensive. A 20-minute cab ride to the airport will cost about US$45. - Aug 2014
No trains or buses. Taxis are safe but not super cheap. You really need a car to get around. - Sep 2012
No trains (it's an island!). Avoid the buses. Taxis are safe but VERY expensive -- particularly if you pick one up in the souk and don't confirm that he's using the meter. Talk to the sailors, they'll tell you. - Apr 2010
Buses are not recommended, but taxis are fine -- and not too pricey. - Jun 2009
Public transportation is limited but there are plans on improving it. Taxis are overpriced, buses are scarce, everyone tries to get a car, even if its just a old dusted model. - Dec 2008
No. No. No. There is NO public transportation for an expat or Bahraini. There are cars called taxis but I'm not sure what they do because if you call one they tell you that they have a car available in a few days. If you contract a limo company, they might come. You can find taxis at hotels, but a taxi ride anywhere will cost about US$15.00. That is a ripoff considering that gasoline is less than US$1.00 per gallon. - Aug 2008
