Current Time in Bahrain
Bahraini culture regarding time
Bahraini culture regarding time
The sense of time is relatively flexible
In Bahrain, the awareness of time is somewhat relaxed in daily life. For appointments with friends and casual gatherings, some delays are generally tolerated. On the other hand, the awareness of being punctual is becoming stronger in business situations.
Islamic culture influences the flow of time
Five prayer times a day influence the daily rhythm of life, and commercial facilities and businesses may suspend and resume operations according to these times. Fridays in particular are treated as a religious day of rest.
Daytime activities are adjusted to avoid the heat
To avoid the intense heat of summer, it is common for people to concentrate their activities in the early morning and evening. Daytime hours may be used for temporary rest or closing time.
Bahraini values regarding time
A culture that values people over the present
There is a culture that values relationships and hospitality over time, and politeness is sometimes prioritized over not making people wait. Flexibility and mutual understanding are important.
Family time is the top priority
Time with family and relatives is very important, and it is accepted to prioritize family events at work. This is also a value shared throughout the Gulf countries.
Punctuality in public places is on the rise
In recent years, awareness of punctuality has increased in international business and government organizations, and there is a growing tendency to expect punctuality, especially in appointments with foreigners.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Bahrain
Many stores and facilities are closed on Friday mornings for prayer
Friday is a Muslim holy day, and many stores and facilities may be closed in the morning. Generally, going out or completing formalities is done after the afternoon.
Government offices and banks are required to be punctual
Government offices and financial institutions have set business hours, and reception is closed at closing time, so it is important to check the time in advance and act accordingly.
Many facilities are open late at night
To avoid the heat of the day, shopping malls and restaurants generally stay open late at night. It is not uncommon to see places bustling even after 9 p.m.
Fun facts about time in Bahrain
Daylight saving time is not observed
Bahrain uses the UTC+3 time zone throughout the year, and there is no daylight saving time system. There is little change in daylight hours, so there is no need to change the time depending on the season.
Prayer timetables are a part of daily life
Prayer times at mosques change daily, and timetables can be found in newspapers, on television, and through smartphone apps. Many people use them as a reference for their daily activities.
The sense of time during Ramadan is special
During the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan, daytime activities decrease and life becomes more active after sunset. Business hours and school timetables also follow a special schedule during this period.