Manama - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
This is another funny question. I think it's intended to ask where or not there is a open social scene for the LGBT community, or if they have equal rights. However, it really can mean a lot of things. The short answer is no, the longer answer is more complicated. But I would describe the Middle East as one of the "gayest places in the world."
If you're a man, and you're just looking for other physical contact with other men - then the Middle East and Bahrain are excellent destinations for you. Arab culture has a long history of sexual relationships with other men, despite the fact that they deny that homosexuality exists in their culture. Men, especially Arab men seeking Westerners, will easily initiate physical relationships, as long as they are the "man." The concept of "gay" doesn't really exist, they are just having "fun." There are also at least two venues in Manama, that while not openly gay, are only frequented by men seeking other men.Most Bahraini men, and Arab men would never consider themselves gay, but if they understand the Western concept of gay and straight, a large percentage will admit to being bisexual if they actually decide to tell the truth. It's a phenomena that many Westerners have a hard time wrapping their minds around. Men sleeping with men is basically no big deal as long as you don't talk about it in public.
However, if you're looking for more substantial relationships, or a community, then you will be disappointed. While I did know some Bahrainis who had homosexual relationships, they had to be very careful to hide it from their families.
There are quite a few transgender Asian people, and transgender Arabs that I observed in relationships with Arab men. These types of relationships are a lot more accepted as the male to female is perceived as basically a woman.
Lesbians on the other hand, while I did observe what I thought were probably lesbians, especially from the really really rich GCC countries (Kuwait, Qatar, Emirates)- this is even more taboo than being a gay male. I talked to some Bahrainis who said they had lesbian friends, but I've never personally encountered a lesbian from the GCC. I think lesbians would have a very hard time meeting people for even the most basic of needs. I could be wrong though. - Apr 2017
Probably not. - Nov 2015
NO!! Homosexuality is illegal. And there are occasional newspaper articles about police raiding underground gay clubs and prosecuting and imprisoning people for homosexual activity. - Aug 2014
Being gay or lesbian is technically against the law in Bahrain, although the law is rarely enforced. There is a limited underground gay and lesbian nightlife. - Sep 2012
Homosexuality is illegal in Bahrain, but of course it exists. I don't much about the scene, though I'm sure it's out there. - Apr 2010
The culture is not really tolerant of gay/lesbians yet. - Dec 2008
I really don't think that would be wise! - Aug 2008
