Manama - Post Report Question and Answers
What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
I always think it's funny when I see responses to this question - most diplomats always say to bring something that you don't care about, as it it will get beat-up; this is often not true. While from a financial perspective it makes sense not to buy a brand new car and send it overseas, at the same time you won't look very official if you're driving a clunker. Particularly in the GCC - most of the private sector expats have very nice cars, and the Arabs love cars - I know it seems silly, but people often will take you more seriously if you're driving a nice car. When you roll up to the Ritz-Carlton or the Four Seasons in your 1990s used whatever, people will not take you seriously.
Personally, I would recommend a nice SUV. You can get parts for just about any make and model (even U.S. models - gas guzzling cars are popular). Due to the fact that a LOT of parking is improvised (and thus parking in dirt/sand/jumping curbs), you're better off getting something that has all-wheel drive and good ground clearance. Parts are readily available, but can be quite pricey, however labor generally isn't (even at dealers). - Apr 2017
I wouldn't bring a new one. The roads are good but it can be dusty and pot-holey. Some areas are a bit off-roady. SUV not necessary but being a safe car ---one that will "win" in a road accident. - Sep 2016
A large SUV...not because you will need the 4-wheel drive capabilities, but for the aggressive factor. Drivers here are among the worst. - Aug 2014
Any car is suitable but for resale and repair, Toyota, Nissan, and Honda would be easiest. Used cars on the market are overpriced so it’s best to come with a car if you can ship one. - Sep 2012
All cars are fine... particularly the more popular Japanese models. Plenty of parts and car repair is fairly inexpensive. It's pretty much the only thing that is. - Apr 2010
Any will work. Many people have huge SUVs to intimidate other drivers. I drive a Mazda, which is nice in tight parking here. A few of us bought second cars from other expats upon arrival and are having maintenance issues. - Jun 2009
You can find everything here, don't really need to bring anything. They love cars here, and speed in them too!!! The most common companies are Toyota, Honda and Nissan. In american companies GM. Roads are smoother and much better maintained than in US. Should go to the Traffic Directorate in Isa Town once you get here to make sure you can drive with your license and if there are any legal issues with it. - Dec 2008
I'd bring any of the Toyota SUV's. They are a good size & you can manage your way around/ through any place. If you have a large SUV, you might have to back out of roads to let another car through. - Aug 2008
