Bahrain Stays Level 3 as US Advisory Warns of Houthi Attack Risk

The United States has updated its travel advisory for Bahrain, keeping the country at Level 3, Reconsider Travel, because of terrorism and armed conflict. The advisory summary was revised on 23 October 2026 to reflect an increase in potential armed attacks by the Iranian-supported Houthis and Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region.

Travellers should note that the advisory level and the risk indicators did not change — only the wording of the advisory summary was updated.

Key facts

• Advisory level: Level 3, Reconsider Travel — unchanged
• Updated: 23 October 2026; published by the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain on 24 October 2026
• Reasons given: terrorism and armed conflict
• U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel to Bahrain
• An ongoing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Notice to Airmen covers the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman region

What has changed?

Only the advisory summary was rewritten. It now highlights a higher potential for armed attacks by the Iranian-supported Houthis, as well as Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region. The advisory level itself and its risk indicators remain as they were.

What are the main risks?

Armed conflict. The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain says Iranian-supported Houthis have carried out hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure that caused civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. These hostilities could escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.

Terrorism. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain and may strike with little or no warning. The embassy lists tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls and religious sites, as well as government and military facilities, among the possible targets.

Aviation. The FAA has an ongoing Notice to Airmen linked to risks to civil aviation operating within or near the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Bahrain.

What restrictions apply to U.S. government employees?

Because of safety risks, U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel to Bahrain. The embassy notes that additional staffing adjustments may be imposed on U.S. personnel under the Chief of Mission's security responsibility if security issues evolve.

What should travellers do?

The embassy advises anyone who decides to travel to Bahrain to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and alerts, and to stay alert at all times, particularly in places frequented by tourists. It also recommends being aware of your surroundings and setting up a communication plan with family, your employer or host organisation.

Travellers are urged to have an emergency plan to leave Bahrain that does not rely on U.S. government help, to check the latest travel health information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and to buy travel insurance covering evacuation assistance, medical insurance and trip cancellation.

What this means for travellers

Anyone planning a trip to Bahrain should weigh the Level 3 advisory and the regional security situation before booking, review the security and health guidance listed above, and arrange insurance and an independent departure plan in case conditions deteriorate.

The advisory level has not changed, and the FAA notice covering the region remains ongoing. U.S. citizens needing assistance can call +1-202-501-4444 from abroad or +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada.