Trying to find out if Bahrain widely accepts American Express cards in restaurants and shops and ATMs - any suggestions
Amex has limited reach in Bahrain. If you’re staying in international hotels and shopping in Seef Mall or City Centre Bahrain, you’ll be fine. But when budgeting for daily meals (~BHD 3-5 for casual restaurants), rides, and local experiences, use Visa/Mastercard. ATMs in Bahrain usually support international withdrawals, but most charge fees. A smart strategy is to use Amex for large transactions where it’s accepted and keep a backup for everything else. This mix will give you flexibility without getting stuck.
Honestly, Bahrain wasn’t the best country for my Amex. It felt like every smaller shop or café had the “sorry, not accepted” sign. Even when I asked at a mid-range restaurant, they said only Visa and Mastercard. The only time it worked smoothly was at a luxury mall. I had to withdraw extra cash to cover daily spending, which wasn’t ideal since ATM fees can add up. For anyone traveling here, don’t make the mistake I did - don’t rely on Amex if you’re planning to move around outside the hotel bubble.
I used Amex at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay without issues, and it worked perfectly for spa services and fancy meals. But when I went out for shawarma, bought souvenirs at Manama Souq, or tried smaller restaurants, they didn’t accept it. The ATMs I tried also leaned more toward Visa and Mastercard networks. Thankfully, I had my Mastercard with me, and it saved a lot of hassle. My tip: keep Amex for hotel stays or big purchases, but if you want to explore like a local, carry another card and some Bahraini Dinar.
Bahrain is quite modern when it comes to payment systems, but American Express isn’t the most accepted card here. Upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, and some malls will take it, but everyday cafés, local supermarkets, and smaller shops often decline. Visa and Mastercard dominate, especially at ATMs. If you’re planning activities like desert tours or day trips to the Bahrain Fort, cash or a widely accepted card will serve you better. Amex can still be used at high-end places in Manama, but don’t rely on it for all expenses. A backup Visa or Mastercard is strongly advised.