The border between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia is a singular feat of engineering: the 25-kilometer King Fahd Causeway. This series of bridges and viaducts is more than just a transportation link; it is a social and economic lifeline that physically connects the island nation of Bahrain to the Arabian mainland. Your crossing is a drive over the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf.
The entire border process takes place on a single, purpose-built artificial island situated in the middle of the causeway. This “Passport Island” houses the customs and immigration facilities for both kingdoms, complete with mosques, restaurants, and service stations, making it a destination in its own right.
While the drive offers fine views, be prepared for significant traffic. The causeway is immensely popular, especially on weekends and holidays, as residents of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province flock to Bahrain. This can lead to long queues at both the toll booths and the border processing lanes, sometimes taking hours to clear.
The causeway’s impact cannot be overstated. It allows for daily commutes, facilitates billions of dollars in trade, and has profoundly integrated the economies and social lives of Bahrain and eastern Saudi Arabia. It stands as a testament to the close relationship between the two Gulf monarchies.