Bahrain Card Issuers & Payments Guide
Navigate Bahrain like a local. Learn where and how to use credit/debit cards, contactless, mobile wallets, and ATMs with zero hassle.
Visa/Mastercard
Widely accepted
Apple/Google Pay
Common at terminals
Contactless
Tap to pay everywhere
ATMs
24/7 access
Currency
BHD (Dinar)
1 BHD = 1000 fils
DCC
Avoid DCC
Always charge in BHD
Safety
Tap is safe
PIN may be required
Wallets
Apple/Google/Samsung
Widely supported
Major Card Issuers in Bahrain
Visa and Mastercard cards from Bahraini banks are accepted widely. American Express is common at larger merchants and hotels; Diners is less common.
National Bank of Bahrain (NBB)
Visa & Mastercard credit/debit, contactless support, mobile wallet compatibility.
Bank of Bahrain & Kuwait (BBK)
Broad acceptance, modern EMV/contactless cards, traveller-friendly support.
Ahli United Bank
Visa/Mastercard portfolio, ATM network across the Kingdom.
Bank ABC
EMV, contactless, mobile wallet readiness; common at major merchants.
Al Salam Bank
Contactless debit/credit, competitive ATM coverage.
Khaleeji Commercial Bank
Visa/Mastercard issuing; modern POS acceptance.
Contactless & Mobile Wallets
Contactless (NFC)
Tap to pay is common at supermarkets, malls, hotels and transport. Some terminals may require PIN for higher amounts.
Apple Pay / Google Pay / Samsung Pay
Widely supported. Add your card in your wallet app, enable international payments if needed.
Security
Tokenized payments, biometric authentication, and EMV chips make tapping safe and fast.
ATMs & Cash
Availability
ATMs are plentiful in malls, banks, and airports. International cards (Visa/MC) work at most machines.
- Select "Checking" for most debit withdrawals
- Maximum per-transaction limits vary
- Keep receipts for records
Avoid DCC
If an ATM or POS asks to charge in your home currency, choose BHD to avoid poor exchange rates.
Fees & Limits
Foreign Transaction Fees
Your home bank may charge 0–3%. Consider cards that waive FX fees for travel.
ATM Operator Fees
Some ATMs apply a local fee. The machine shows it before withdrawal—cancel if it's too high.
Daily Limits
Your bank’s withdrawal or spending limits may apply. Raise them before travel if needed.
Quick Tips
- Carry at least one Visa or Mastercard; Amex acceptance is decent in upscale venues.
- Enable international and contactless in your banking app.
- Keep a backup card and a small amount of BHD cash.
- Pay in BHD to avoid DCC.
- Use mobile wallets for extra security and ease.
- Receipts may show a temporary pre-authorization at hotels/car rentals.
- Check your bank’s travel notifications to prevent declines.
- Keep your card in sight at restaurants; use tap if possible.
FAQ
Is contactless widely accepted?
Yes. Most modern terminals support tap to pay across cities and tourist locations.
Which cards work best?
Visa and Mastercard have the broadest coverage. Carry at least one of each if possible.
Can I withdraw cash with foreign cards?
Yes, most ATMs accept international cards. Fees and limits vary by bank and machine.
Should I pay in my home currency?
No. Choose BHD to avoid poor exchange rates applied by Dynamic Currency Conversion.
Contact Us
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