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What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
During Ramadan I would recommend dressing more conservatively. Arab men in professional and government positions will typically dress in suits, or traditional clothing. Arab women in similar positions will always dress in traditional clothing. Having said that, due to Bahrain being the destination of sin in the region, you will see plenty of scantily clad women running around in nightclubs at night, and while people may stare at you if you're dressed less than conservatively, no one is going to say anything. There is no religious police unlike in some of the neighboring countries.
There aren't specific dress codes that are enforced with the exception of some high-end restaurants or night clubs - however, if you're going for any sort of official meeting I would suggest dressing as nicely as possible if you want people to take you seriously. - Apr 2017
Bahrain is pretty relaxed and you won't feel uncomfortable as a woman at the mall or in restaurants baring your legs or shoulders, but I cover up in the souk or rural areas just so that I don't get stared at. In general though I wouldn't wear short-shorts beyond my compound (or beach clubs)--just out of respect. But you wouldn't get arrested. - Sep 2016
You definitely want to dress modestly and business like for work. - Nov 2015
Formal. Men wear suits and ties even in 120F. Women can get away with more, but this is still a conservative country. Cleavage and mini-skirts are NOT ok at work. - Aug 2014
Business at work; moderately conservative summer clothes outside work; conservative cocktail attire in the evenings. Western dress is completely acceptable here, but you’d feel uncomfortable with sleeveless shirts or short skirts. When going out, people dress up more than I’m used to in the U.S. Between diplomatic functions, evenings out, and the many (optional) balls around town, you will get use of your evening wear. There are great stores here in the mall, but the prices can get exorbitant. I’d advise coming with a well-stocked summer/spring wardrobe. - Sep 2012
Conservative casual. - Apr 2010
Most people dress well here. You rarely see shorts or short skirts; not many tank tops either. - Jun 2009
Not really enforced, but you are expected not wear skimpy clothes, especially women, like mini mini skirt in the middle of the day in a mall but not really enforced. - Dec 2008
I wear professional attire at work and jeans on the weekends. I'd be in big trouble if I went to the mall wearing shorts and a tank top or a spaghetti strap shirt/or dress. In public, most of the women wear abayas. You will stand out for not wearing one, so don't make things worse by REALLY standing out. On the other hand, you don't have to walk around wearing a turtleneck. I always carry a cardigan or a shawl just in case. - Aug 2008
