MoFA announces traveller guidelines

Manama : In line with the summer holidays, Foreign Affairs Ministry (MoFA) has announced a set of guidelines to citizens, who are travelling this year.

“In order to ensure your personal safety, we have compiled a set of basic guidelines that we advise you and any companions to follow,” the ministry stated on its official website.

Under the “general guidelines” the ministry warned its citizens to avoid travelling to troubled countries and stay away from rallies and demonstrations to stave off any potential threats.

It specified to follow security instructions and respect the laws and regulation of the destination countries to convey the bright image of Bahrain. 

In case of any problems, citizens are advised to contact any GCC or Bahraini diplomatic missions.

Most importantly, checking the validity of passport and cross checking all details regarding the visa is necessary to safely enter a foreign country.

To avoid theft

 The ministry has requested its citizens to avoid carrying huge sums of money while walking on streets. It has advised them to keep their personal and sensitive documents in a purse. 

Citizens are also advised to keep copies of their personal identities and bank cards in case of theft. They have been told to  check the official identity if someone happens to inspect you claiming to be a police officer.

It also asked to avoid following the thief in case of theft but inform police officers and provide the embassy with a security report issued by the police.

For Schengen countries

The ministry has mentioned that the longest period of residence in any of the Schengen countries should not be more than three months from the date of entry. 

In case of retrieval of purchase tax values in Schengen countries on departure, provide all your purchases when the Customs authority request them or it would be considered as a violation of the Customs laws.

Declaring the Customs authorities about any sums of money that exceed 10,000 euros at the entrance of the Schengen countries would be a safer option.

Appearance and clothing

It is strictly advised to follow the rules and the laws of the countries that prevent Niqab or Burqa or any costume that covers the face, to avoid any financial penalty. Try not to exaggerate in wearing jewellery that draws attention.

Transportation

The guidelines clearly mention to avoid signing unofficial or unsupported residence contracts, and carefully read the terms and conditions of the lease contracts.

Renting cars directly from a certified car rental office would be a better option rather than renting from individuals.