Cost of Living in Bahrain 2024

Considering moving to Bahrain? Then it can’t be that you aren’t thinking about the cost of living in Bahrain – yes, the country is known for its rich cultural heritage and modern amenities, but it’s still the living and studying expenses that matter for every student, including you. And the good news is that Bahrain is one of the most affordable countries in Saudi Arabia. 

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manama is around INR 50,000. However, you can find similar accommodations in smaller towns for about INR 30,000.

Needless to say, affordability has made Bahrain a hub for international students.

You might also be glad to know that 78% of Bahrain residents find it easy to live in this island country without speaking the local language – this means, you’ll find it easy to study in Bahrain even if you are not fluent in Arabic.

This accessibility, coupled with Bahrain’s high-quality education system and vibrant expat community, makes it an attractive destination for students worldwide.

On the other hand, dining out can cost between INR 1,500 to INR 2,500 for a mid-range meal, and a monthly transportation pass in major cities averages INR 3,000.

Feeling confident about your decision to study in Bahrain? This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth into Bahrain’s cost of living for Indian students. Dive in to ensure you’re well-prepared for your move.

Key Highlights

Here’s everything you will learn in this guide on cost of living in Bahrain. 

Topic	Average Cost in INR
Average Cost of Living in Bahrain for Indian Students	INR 70,000 – INR 1L monthly, including rent, utilities, food, and transportation.
Cost of Living in Manama	Estimated monthly cost: INR 90,000 – INR 1.2L
Cost of Living in Smaller Cities	Estimated monthly cost: INR 50,000 – INR 70,000
University Accommodation	INR 20,000 – INR 30,000 per month
Public University Fees	INR 2L – INR 6L per year
Utility Costs	INR 11,500 – INR 22,000 per month
Transportation Costs	INR 3,000 – INR 6,000 per month
Dining Out Costs	INR 1,500 – INR 2,500 per meal
Grocery Costs	INR 80 – INR 1,000 per item

Average Cost of Living in Bahrain

Understanding the average monthly expenses is essential for effective budgeting when planning a move to Bahrain. Outskirts of Bahrain offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to the city centres. For instance, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of Manama is around INR 72,000, while outside the city centre, it drops to approximately INR 51,000​.

Additionally, Bahrain ranks first in the Middle East and North Africa for ease of accommodation and quality of life, making it an attractive destination for expatriates​​. 

Here’s a breakdown of the typical Bahrain living expenses on a monthly basis to give you a clearer idea.

Expense	Cost Range (in INR)
Rent (1BR apartment)	INR 30,000 – INR 50,000
Utilities	INR 7,500 – INR 15,000
Groceries	INR 20,000 – INR 30,000
Transportation	INR 3,000 – INR 6,000
Miscellaneous	INR 5,000 – INR 10,000

*Also note that dining out costs around INR 1,500 – INR 2,500 per meal.

Cost of Living in Bahrain – Accommodation Costs

One primary factor to consider when thinking about the cost of living in Bahrain is the cost of accommodation. A one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Manama Outside Center costs approximately INR 50,000 per month.

Moreover, Bahrain is known for its competitive cost of living, being 26% lower than in the United States​​. This affordability and Bahrain’s reputation for high quality of life make it an attractive destination for expatriates. Understanding these housing costs will help you effectively plan your budget for a comfortable living experience in Bahrain.

Here’s a closer look at the rental costs in various cities.

City	Average Monthly Rent for 1BR Apartment (in INR)
Manama (City Center)	INR 60,000 – INR 1L
Manama (Outside Center)	INR 40,000 – INR 74,000
Smaller Cities	INR 56,000 – INR 1.3L

The cost of living in Bahrain for an Indian family and the cost of a three-bedroom apartment in Manama can range from INR 70,000 to INR 1L per month, depending on the location and amenities.

University-provided accommodation can significantly reduce the cost of living in Bahrain for students. The average cost for a room in a student residence is approximately INR 25,000 per month. These residences often come with added benefits like proximity to campus and included utilities making them an attractive option. It will also help in reducing Bahrain’s cost of living for Indians.

Finding Affordable Accommodation

Finding affordable accommodation in Bahrain can be easier if you consider a few strategic approaches. One effective method is to look for housing outside the city centre. Suburban areas often offer lower rental prices and a quieter living environment. Additionally, sharing an apartment with roommates can further reduce the cost of living in Bahrain.

To find affordable accommodation, you can use several online resources listed below:

1. Property Finder Bahrain: A comprehensive website for finding apartments, villas, and townhouses across various price ranges.
2. OLX Bahrain: A popular classified site where you can find listings for shared apartments and affordable rentals.
3. Expatriates.com: This site caters specifically to expatriates and offers a variety of rental listings, including shared accommodations.
4. Bahrain Property World: Another great platform for finding rentals that suit your budget.

Cost of Living in Bahrain – Utility Expenses

When planning your budget for living in Bahrain, it’s important to account for utility expenses. On average, the monthly cost for basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services for an 85-square-metre apartment, is approximately INR 9,400​. 

Additionally, internet services with speeds of 60 Mbps or more typically cost between approximately INR 2,100 and INR 5,300 per month​​.

Popular internet and phone companies in Bahrain include:

• Batelco: Known for reliable internet and mobile services.
• Zain Bahrain: Offers competitive packages for mobile and internet services.
• Viva Bahrain: Provides a range of internet and phone plans suitable for various needs.

 Here’s a breakdown of typical utility expenses.

Utility	Bahrain Living Expenses Per Month (in INR)
Electricity	INR 5,000 – INR 10,000
Water and Cooling	INR 2,500 – INR 5,000
Internet	INR 2,500 – INR 4,000
Mobile Phone Plan	INR 1,500 – INR 3,000

How to Manage Utility Bill to Reduce the Cost of Living in Bahrain? 

Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances to reduce electricity consumption. This can significantly lower your monthly utility bills, especially during the hot summer when air conditioning is frequently used.

Here are some other helpful tips to manage your utility bills:

1. Opt for Suitable Mobile Plans: Choose from popular providers like Batelco, Zain Bahrain, or Viva Bahrain that offer adequate data and call benefits. This helps avoid high bills and ensures you have the needed services without overspending.
2. Monitor Utility Usage Regularly: Keep track of your utility usage to avoid unexpected high costs. Many providers offer online tools or apps that allow you to monitor your consumption in real time, helping you stay within your budget.

Cost of Living in Bahrain – Transportation Costs

Understanding transportation costs is crucial when budgeting for life in Bahrain. Public transportation in Bahrain is quite affordable. For example, a one-way ticket on local transport costs around INR 60, and a monthly pass is approximately INR 2,500. 

Taxis are also reasonably priced, with the starting fare typically being INR 400 and costing about INR 650 per mile​​.

For those who prefer renting a vehicle, fuel costs are low compared to many countries, with gasoline priced at around INR 110 per gallon​​. Whether you choose public transport, taxis, or driving, understanding these costs will help you manage your transportation budget effectively for Bahrain’s cost of living per month.

Here’s a look at typical transportation costs.

Transportation	Monthly Cost (in INR)
One-way Ticket	INR 100 – INR 200
Monthly Pass	INR 3,000 – INR 6,000
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)	INR 300 – INR 500
Gasoline (1 litre)	INR 80 – INR 100

How to manage your transportation costs in Bahrain?

The public transport system in Bahrain includes buses that cover most areas of the country. Monthly passes are available and can save frequent travellers money. For those who prefer driving, gasoline is relatively affordable, and renting a car is manageable.

Tips for Saving on Transportation:

• Use public transportation whenever possible to save on fuel and maintenance costs.
• Carpool with friends or colleagues to share expenses.
• Take advantage of ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem for occasional travel needs.

Cost of Living in Bahrain – Food and Dining Expenses

When planning your budget for living in Bahrain, it’s essential to consider food and dining expenses, especially for students. Bahrain offers a diverse and vibrant food scene, combining traditional Middle Eastern cuisine with international flavours.

For instance, dining out can be quite affordable. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around approximately INR 550, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages about INR 4,000​​.

Popular student-friendly eateries include:

• Saffron by Jena: Known for its traditional Bahraini breakfast.
• Mama Maya: Offering hearty Middle Eastern dishes.
• Lanterns Restaurant: a favourite for Indian cuisine
• Emmawash Traditional Restaurant: Which serves authentic Bahraini meals at reasonable prices.

Additionally, international chains like Pizza Hut and McDonald’s provide familiar food options with meal deals and discounts to manage Bahrain’s cost of living for Indians.

Here is an overview of the dining options and the estimated cost associated with each to manage Bahrain’s cost of living per month. 

Dining Option	Estimated Cost (in INR)
Cost per Meal in Inexpensive Restaurant	INR 1,500 – INR 2,500
Meal for 2 People in Mid-range Restaurant	INR 4,000 – INR 6,000
McMeal at McDonald’s (or equivalent)	INR 700 – INR 1,000

Cost of Living in Bahrain- Grocery Costs

When planning your budget for living in Bahrain, it’s essential to consider food and dining expenses. Bahrain offers a diverse and vibrant food scene, combining traditional Middle Eastern cuisine (like Falafel, Shawarma and Pita) with international flavours.

On the grocery front, prices remain reasonable. For example, a gallon of milk costs about INR 480, and a dozen eggs are priced at approximately INR 200​. Fresh produce is also affordable, with a pound of tomatoes costing around INR 45.

Moreover, Bahrain’s food markets and supermarkets, like Lulu Hypermarket and Carrefour, provide a wide range of products, often at competitive prices. Understanding these costs will help you enjoy Bahrain’s culinary offerings without stretching your budget.

Here’s an overview of typical grocery costs.

Item	Price in INR
Milk (1 litre)	INR 100
Loaf of Fresh White Bread	INR 150
Rice (1 kg)	INR 120
Eggs (12)	INR 250
Cheese (1 kg)	INR 1,000
Chicken Fillets (1 kg)	INR 600
Apples (1 kg)	INR 200
Bananas (1 kg)	INR 150

Tips for Reducing Food Costs:

• Shop at local markets (like Manama Souq) for fresh produce at lower prices.
• Buy in bulk to save on staple items like rice, flour, and cooking oil.
• Plan meals and make a shopping list to avoid impulse purchases.

Education Costs for International Students

When planning for education costs in Bahrain as an international student, it’s important to consider various expenses, including tuition, accommodation, and living costs. Tuition fees for international students in Bahrain vary widely depending on the institution and the level of study. 

For instance, undergraduate programs at the University of Bahrain typically range from INR 9L to INR 12L per year​.

Beyond tuition, you should budget for accommodation, which can range from INR 51,000 to INR 72,000 per month, as well as other living expenses, including food, transportation, and textbooks. Understanding these costs will help you plan your finances effectively and ensure a smooth educational experience in Bahrain.

Here’s an overview of typical education expenses.

Education Level	Estimated Annual Fees (in INR)
Public University (Undergraduate)	INR 2L – INR 12L
Public University (Postgraduate)	INR 3L – INR 11L

Average Tuition Fees at Top Universities in Bahrain

A notable statistic to consider is that Bahrain ranks highly for the quality of education and student satisfaction in the Middle East, with 87% of international students expressing high levels of satisfaction with their education experience​​.

Bahrain is home to several reputable universities. Here are some of the top universities and their estimated tuition fees.

Name of the University	Tuition Fees (per year in INR)
University of Bahrain	₹6L – ₹11.4L
Arabian Gulf University	₹16L
Ahlia University	₹7L
Bahrain Polytechnic	₹9.5L
Royal University for Women	₹9L – ₹11L

Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Studying for International Students

Studying in Bahrain can be financially demanding for you as an international student, but scholarships can significantly reduce the cost. Many institutions in Bahrain offer scholarships specifically designed to attract international talent. For instance, the University of Bahrain provides merit-based scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition fees for outstanding students.

A notable statistic is that 60% of international students in Bahrain receive some form of financial aid or scholarship, easing their financial burden and making education more accessible. These scholarships not only cover tuition but can also include allowances for accommodation and living expenses, helping you to focus on your studies without financial stress and manage the cost of living in Bahrain for an Indian family.

Exploring these scholarship opportunities can make a significant difference in managing the cost of education in Bahrain.

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Benefits	Eligible Degrees
Bahrain Government Scholarships	Up to 100% Tuition Fee	Undergraduate and Postgraduate
University of Bahrain Scholarships	Partial to Full Tuition Coverage	Various Programs
Ahlia University Scholarships	Up to 75% Tuition Fee	Undergraduate and Postgraduate

Scholarship Eligibility

Did you know Bahrain is increasingly becoming a popular destination for international students due to its quality education and affordable living costs? In 2023, the number of international students in Bahrain increased by 15%, reflecting its growing appeal as an education hub. To support this influx, Bahrain offers a variety of scholarships to help reduce the financial burden on students.

To qualify for scholarships in Bahrain, you generally need to meet certain criteria, which may include academic performance, financial need, and specific program requirements. Here are some common eligibility criteria.

• Academic Excellence: High academic achievements in previous educational institutions in Bahrain or internationally. For example, you need to maintain a GPA of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale or achieve top percentile scores in standardised tests.

• Financial Need: Demonstrated need for financial assistance to cover tuition and living expenses. This may include providing your income statements, tax returns.

• Program Specific: Enrollment in specific programs or fields of study offered by Bahraini universities. For instance, scholarships may be available specifically for engineering, medicine, business administration, or information technology programs.

• Nationality: Some scholarships are exclusive to certain nationalities, including Indian students and other expatriates. For example, the Bahrain Government Scholarship program often targets international students from specific countries to promote cultural exchange.

• Extracurricular Activities: Active participation in extracurricular activities and community service, demonstrating leadership and commitment. Examples include involvement in sports teams, student government, volunteer organisations, or other community service initiatives.

• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or Arabic, as required by the specific academic program. For instance, you need to achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.5 for English proficiency, or pass the Arabic language proficiency test for programs taught in Arabic.

Also read: Top IELTS Tips and Tricks For Best IELTS Scores 2024

Cost of Living in Bahrain Compared to Other Gulf Countries

Bahrain’s cost of living is generally lower than in many other Gulf countries but higher than in South Asian countries. For example, the cost of living in Bahrain is approximately 20% cheaper than in Dubai, UAE, but about 30% more expensive than in India.

City	Cost of Living Index	Cost of Living for a Single Person (in INR)
Manama	55.23	INR 90,000
Dubai, UAE	53.32	INR 1.2L
Mumbai, India	29.03	INR 60,000

Banking and Budgeting in Bahrain

Having a local bank account can simplify managing your finances in Bahrain. Here are some tips for effective budgeting and banking.

Select a bank that offers convenient services and low fees. Popular banks in Bahrain include National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Ahli United Bank (AUB), and HSBC Bahrain.

Budgeting Tips

• Track your expenses using a budgeting app.
• Set aside a portion of your income for savings each month.
• Avoid unnecessary expenses by distinguishing between wants and needs.

Wind Up

Living in Bahrain offers a high quality of life with modern amenities and a rich cultural experience. While the cost of living can be significant, especially in cities like Manama, there are numerous ways in which you can manage your expenses effectively.

From utilising student discounts and shared accommodations to exploring part-time job opportunities, you can find various strategies to make your stay in Bahrain more affordable.

By planning your budget, monitoring expenses, and taking advantage of available resources, you can enjoy all that Bahrain has to offer without breaking the bank.

Studying in Bahrain can be financially demanding for you as an international student, but scholarships can significantly reduce the cost. Plus following our guide to plan and manage your budget will go a long way!

Frequently Asked Questions