Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, focusing on clear, neutral information to help people find health coverage abroad.
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Quick Summary: Health Insurance in Bahrain
- Mandatory health insurance for all expats since 2022—employers must provide coverage.
- Sehati (Health Insurance Council) regulates expat insurance with minimum benefit requirements.
- Golden Visa (10-year residence) available for investors, retirees, and professionals.
- Good healthcare infrastructure—King Hamad Hospital modern, private hospitals excellent.
- More liberal than Gulf neighbors—alcohol legal, cosmopolitan lifestyle, easy Saudi/UAE access.
Do You Need Private Health Insurance in Bahrain?
Since 2022, all expat residents must have health insurance. Employers are required to provide coverage meeting Sehati (Health Insurance Council) minimum standards. The mandated essential benefits package covers basic care, but many expats supplement with enhanced coverage. Golden Visa holders must also maintain valid health insurance. Self-sponsored residents must purchase their own compliant insurance.
Insurance is required for:
- All expat residents—mandatory since 2022, employer must provide
- Self-sponsored individuals—must purchase Sehati-compliant coverage
- Golden Visa holders—insurance required for visa validity
- Those wanting enhanced coverage—basic plans have limitations
- Families—verify dependent coverage meets your needs
Public vs Private Healthcare in Bahrain
Public Healthcare
Ministry of Health / NHRA
- Access: Bahraini citizens (free), expats with valid insurance (subsidized)
- Cost: BD 3-7 ($8-19) per visit with insurance; higher without
Salmaniya Medical Complex is the main government hospital—large, handles most specialties. King Hamad University Hospital (opened 2012) is modern and well-equipped. Government health centers throughout the island for primary care. Quality is good for routine care. Expats with valid insurance can access government facilities at subsidized rates.
Private Healthcare
International or Local Private
- Access: Open to anyone
- Cost: $80-200/month (local Sehati-compliant); $150-350/month (international)
Private hospitals include American Mission Hospital (oldest, established 1903), Royal Bahrain Hospital, Bahrain Specialist Hospital, and Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital. Private care offers shorter waits, modern facilities, and better amenities. Many doctors trained internationally. English widely spoken. International plans useful for regional treatment (Saudi, UAE) and repatriation. Local insurers include Gulf Union, Solidarity, and Bahrain National.
Plan Options to Compare
Here are the most popular insurance options for expats in Bahrain. Each has trade-offs depending on your situation.
Cigna Global
Best for: Worldwide coverage and strong customer service
Not ideal for: Budget-focused expats staying only in Bahrain
Allianz Care
Best for: High-deductible savings and EU-based service
Not ideal for: Those wanting minimal out-of-pocket costs
BUPA Global
Best for: Pre-existing conditions and mental health coverage
Not ideal for: Those seeking the lowest premiums
IMG Global
Best for: Budget international coverage
Not ideal for: Those wanting premium service levels
Comparison Table: Top Expat Health Plans for Bahrain
Compare the leading options side by side. Click "Details" to learn more about each provider.
| Provider | Best For | Coverage Style | Includes U.S.? | Notable Limits | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Worldwide coverage and strong | International comprehensive | Higher cost than local options | Details → | |
| Allianz Care | High-deductible savings and EU-based | International comprehensive | Deductibles apply to savings | Details → | |
| BUPA Global | Pre-existing conditions and mental | International premium | Premium pricing | Details → | |
| IMG Global | Budget international coverage | International standard | 12-month pre-existing exclusion | Details → |
Common Watch-outs for Bahrain
Keep these points in mind when choosing coverage:
- Employer insurance meeting Sehati minimum may have significant gaps. The mandated basic package covers essentials but often excludes: dental, optical, outpatient mental health, and has low coverage limits. Consider supplemental coverage for comprehensive protection.
- Pre-existing conditions: Sehati regulations provide some protection, but waiting periods and exclusions still apply. Review your policy carefully if you have ongoing health issues.
- Summer heat (40-45°C) affects health. Heat-related conditions and dehydration are common. Ensure coverage for heat emergencies.
- Small island—very specialized care (organ transplants, rare conditions) may require travel to Saudi Arabia (via King Fahd Causeway), UAE, or further. International plans with regional coverage are valuable.
- Golden Visa holders: Maintain continuous insurance coverage—gaps can affect your visa status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sehati and how does it affect my insurance?
Sehati is Bahrain's Health Insurance Council, established to regulate expat health insurance. Since 2022, all expat residents must have Sehati-compliant insurance. The system mandates minimum benefits including hospitalization, emergency care, and basic outpatient services. Your employer must provide compliant coverage. You can verify your insurance status through the Sehati website using your CPR number.
How does Bahrain's Golden Visa work for healthcare?
Bahrain's Golden Visa grants 10-year residence to investors (BD 200,000+ property), retirees (BD 2,000/month income, 25+ years), or exceptional talents. Golden Visa holders must maintain valid health insurance. You can use employer insurance, purchase individual coverage, or qualify for government healthcare if you meet certain criteria. The visa provides stability but doesn't grant automatic healthcare access—insurance is still required.
Should I supplement my employer insurance in Bahrain?
Often yes. Sehati minimum standards ensure basic coverage, but employer plans frequently have: low outpatient limits, limited dental/optical, basic mental health coverage, and restricted provider networks. If you want comprehensive coverage, faster access to private hospitals, or treatment options outside Bahrain (Saudi, UAE, home country), supplemental or upgraded coverage is worthwhile. Review your employer plan details carefully.
How much does private healthcare cost in Bahrain?
Bahrain is affordable by Gulf standards. Private costs: GP consultation BD 15-25 ($40-65), specialist BD 25-50 ($65-130), private hospital room BD 100-200/day ($265-530), MRI BD 80-150 ($210-400). Emergency care at private hospitals typically BD 50-100 ($130-265). These costs make out-of-pocket viable for routine care, but hospitalization and procedures benefit from insurance coverage.
Can I access healthcare in Saudi Arabia from Bahrain?
Yes, and many expats do for specialized care. The King Fahd Causeway connects Bahrain to Saudi Arabia (30 minutes to Khobar/Dammam). Saudi Arabia has excellent hospitals, and Bahrainis/residents can access private care there. Ensure your insurance covers treatment in Saudi Arabia—international plans typically do, but some local Bahraini policies are restricted to Bahrain only.
Related: Comparisons and Next Steps
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Healthcare policies, insurance requirements, and visa rules change. We are not insurance brokers, immigration consultants, or licensed advisors. Verify all information with official sources and insurance providers before making decisions.