Bahrain International Airport (BAH)

Bahrain International Airport is one of the more smoker-friendly airports in the Gulf region. Designated smoking areas exist both before and after security, so you won't need to exit the terminal and re-enter just to have a cigarette during a layover. The terminal itself is officially a smoke-free zone, but the airport has set up several clearly marked areas to accommodate smokers throughout the building.

Before Security

Landside smoking is restricted to designated outdoor areas outside the terminal building. The official airport website confirms smoking areas in the east and west parts of the building in the Arrivals Hall, so if you're picking someone up or have just landed and haven't cleared to departures yet, head to those exterior spots.

After Security

This is where BAH genuinely stands out compared to many regional airports. The airport's own services page lists designated smoking areas in the Departures Hall central commercial area, specifically:

• Between Gates 14 and 15 (the primary, most-used airside smoking zone)

• Between Gates 18 and 19

A traveler update from April 2023 confirms the Gates 14-15 area is large and well-ventilated. There are also older reports of enclosed smoking rooms at Gate 12A, Level 1 and Gate 17B, Level 1, though it's worth checking signage on arrival as configurations can change after terminal works.

Lounge Options

If you want a more comfortable smoke with a drink in hand, two lounge options have been reported:

• The Terrace Bar near Gate 14 has an outdoor smoking terrace. You must purchase something to use it; the cheapest option reported is around 1.500 BHD (roughly £3.20) for a soft drink.

• Marhaba Lounge has a dedicated smoking area. Marhaba is a pay-per-use lounge accessible to any departing passenger; walk-in rates apply (check current pricing at the lounge desk or online, as rates change).

• An older report also mentions an Irish Bar accessible via stairs near the smoking room, which reportedly permitted smoking inside and was considered a more pleasant option than the basic smoking room.

Sensory Room and Smoking Lounge Reference

The official airport website mentions a Sensory Room located opposite Gate 16, adjacent to the Airport Hotel and Smoking Lounge, which suggests there is a dedicated smoking lounge in that part of the terminal as well.

Vaping

No specific vaping rules are mentioned in official airport communications. Bahrain has general indoor smoking restrictions, so treat vaping the same as cigarettes and stick to the designated smoking areas to avoid any issues.

Bottom Line

BAH offers solid airside smoking options, with the Gates 14-15 zone being the most reliable and spacious spot after security. If you want a drink alongside your smoke, the Terrace Bar near Gate 14 is your best bet for a small purchase.