Country Customary Information: Bahraini women are more publicly active than in most other Arabian countries. Many of the women are not completely veiled. The international calling code for Bahrain is +973, and Bahrain is +3 hours GMT.
Communication Etiquette: Bahrainis are very friendly people. When greeting men shake hands and kiss each other on the cheek. Smiling and direct eye contact is crucial. The official language of Bahrain is Arabic, but English is also spoken widely. Bahrainis are indirect communicators, who say many things that they believe you want to hear. They are also very non-confrontational.
Business Etiquette: Appointments are necessary, and morning meetings are preferred. They often spend a lot of time, getting to know you, in order to build a good relationship. Throughout this it is essential to be patient because impatience is considered bad manners. There is a fairly small Bahrain business community; your behavior could quickly become public knowledge. Bahrainis prefer to do business with the people they know and trust, a letter of introduction by someone they know will allow them to trust you. Business cards are given to everyone you meet, but have one side translated into Arabic. Present your card so that the Arabic is facing the recipient. In negotiation avoid using high-pressure sales tactics. Decisions are often reached slowly. Rushing the negotiation may show signs of offense and may risk the business relationship.