There are taxis outside the terminal, but they tend to overcharge foreigners. It is better to phone for a metered taxi service, which should cost around BD4 to the city, a 15 minute drive.

Short and long-term parking facilities are available in front of the terminal. The cashier counters are available at the exits and they are open 24 hours. No credit cards are allowed, only cash payment. A free shuttle bus service operates between the terminal and the long-term car parks.

Many international and local car rental companies are represented at the airport.

Many hotels operate courtesy buses for their guests to and from the airport.

Tel: +973 1733 9339.

None.

Facilities include banks and bureau de change, restaurants, cafes and bars, gift shops, a post office, communications centre, tourist information and a prayer room. The Bahrain Duty Free shopping complex is internationally acclaimed. Disabled facilities are good; those with special needs should contact their airline in advance.

Arabic is the official language in Bahrain, although English is widely understood and is used by most businesses.

The official currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD), divided into 1, 000 fils. Notes come in denominations of 20, 10, 5 and 1 dinars and 500 fils. The Bahraini Dinar is linked to the US Dollar at a rate of US$1=BD 0.375. Money can be exchanged at the airport, bureaux de change (which usually offer the best rates), commercial banks in Manama or at moneychangers operating in the souq. ATMs are available in the larger towns. Credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted at hotels and the larger retail stores, but smaller shops generally prefer cash. It is easiest to carry travellers cheques in US dollars to avoid additional charges. Most offices, businesses and government departments are closed on Fridays, as it is a weekly holiday. Banks are usually open 7.30am to 12pm and 3.30pm to 5.30pm, Saturday to Wednesday, and 7.30am to 11am Thursdays.

Local time in Bahrain is GMT +3.