Bahrain On Alert: All You Need To Know About The Situation On The Island
This is a developing story about Bahrain being on emergency alert amid regional conflict and escalations. Keep checking in for new updates. [Latest Update: Wednesday, 4 March | 4:30 pm Bahrain Time]
As news of the escalating conflict floods our feeds and screens, we’re keeping this space updated for anyone on the island and beyond to stay informed. In these times, it’s important to stay calm and not give in to rumour mills. The Kingdom has taken several measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and residents.
The Kingdom’s defence system is keeping our skies safe, the Civil Defence Force and Fire Fighters are responding to the destruction of properties all over the island, and official authorities: the Ministry of Interior, the National Communication Centre, and others continue to keep us informed. What can you do? Stay sheltered, stay safe, and stay calm.
At around 11:37 am on Saturday, 28 February, emergency sirens were activated across Bahrain following an alert issued by the Ministry of Interior [MOI], as regional tensions prompted precautionary measures within the Kingdom. Authorities responded quickly, and official updates were released in real time to clarify the situation.
Recent Strikes and Damages:
The US Fifth Fleet Service Centre in Juffair was the subject of the first wave missile attack during the early hours of the escalation. Authorities moved swiftly. The National Communication Centre [NCC] later confirmed that Bahrain’s air defence systems had intercepted several missiles detected in its airspace, with the Bahraini Defence Force responding successfully. [MOI / NCC]
By Saturday evening, the interceptions had ramped up. Buildings in Muharraq and Manama were affected, as hostile drones hit residential buildings. A minor case of smoke inhalation was reported, which was treated on-site. Civil Defence operatives continue to address the affected areas. [MOI]
A senior Civil Aviation Affairs official confirmed that rapid response protocols were activated immediately after Bahrain International Airport was targeted by a drone attack during the early hours of Sunday. Authorities had previously activated approved emergency plans and taken all measures, including the evacuation of the passenger terminal prior to the attack. [Bahrain News Agency].
On Sunday morning, Crowne Plaza in Bahrain’s Diplomatic Area was struck by a missile, causing damage to its facade. The blaze was quickly brought under control by the firefighters. No injuries or casualties were reported. [Reports]
Late Sunday night, a maritime facility in Mina Salman was targeted. The fire from the falling debris resulted in the unfortunate passing of an Asian worker and serious injuries to two others. The fire was brought under control and extinguished. [MOI]
Bahrain Airport stated that flight operations continue to remain temporarily suspended amid the airspace’s closure over the Kingdom. Travellers have been advised to get the latest updates from official channels and relevant airlines. [Bahrain International Airport]
Government Hospitals confirmed that the emergency response plan has been activated and that readiness levels have been raised across vital departments, particularly emergency, intensive care and support services. They announced that Salmaniya Medical Complex received four injured cases. Three of the injuries were minor and were treated in line with medical protocols before being discharged. The fourth case was reportedly moderate and under medical observation until the condition stabilises. The last reports on injuries and [Bahrain News Agency]
The US Department of State, maintains it Level 3 Travel Advisory – urging citizens to reconsider travelling to the region. They’ve also informed American citizens in Bahrain to register on the STEP platform to stay updated and to make their way out of Bahrain if possible. If not, the department instructs the citizens to shelter in place with supplies.
The Civil Service Bureau [CSB] announced that 70% of the staff would shift to remote work across ministries and government entities, excluding sectors that require in-person attendance or have special procedures during emergencies. [Bahrain News Agency]
The Ministry of Education [MOE] announced a temporary shift to remote learning starting 1 March and until further notice. This applies to all early childhood education institutions, public and private schools, and higher education institutions. Support is available 24 hours a day through the urgent service on WhatsApp at 17873372 or via the Ministry’s official website www.moe.gov.bh. [Bahrain News Agency]
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce confirmed that essential food items in local markets are sufficiently available. They’ve secured stock to meet market needs and ensure the continuity of supply without affecting availability or price stability. [Bahrain News Agency]
Interceptions
The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force said that it has successfully intercepted 74 missiles and 95 hostile drones as on Wednesday [BNA]. While neighbouring GCC countries are also being affected by the ongoing tensions, the official information states that air defence systems across the region are acting swiftly and promptly.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Causeway was also closed for the safety of citizens and residents.
What To Do in Case of an Emergency
Moments like this can feel unsettling. The sound of a siren alone is enough to create anxiety. But Bahrain’s response is demonstrating a structured and operational emergency system designed to act quickly and decisively. In situations like this, clarity is key.
First, rely only on credible, official sources for information. Avoid forwarding unverified messages. Misinformation spreads faster than facts, especially during heightened moments.
Enable notifications on official government platforms, particularly the MyGov app, and keep local radio or television channels accessible for updates.
If you are driving when an alert is issued:
Stay within designated speed limits.
Clear the left lane to avoid congestion and reduce the risk of accidents.
Make way for emergency vehicles, including Civil Defence, ambulances, traffic police and security patrols.
Seek shelter in the nearest safe building if advised.
Use main roads only when necessary to allow authorities to operate efficiently and maintain public safety.
Stay calm, follow guidance, and allow trained teams to do their work.
Safe Rooms
The Ministry of Interior and the National Civil Protection Platform have also shared practical guidance for households.
A safe room should:
Be easily accessible.
Ideally be located on the ground floor or at the centre of the home.
Have no windows.
Be structurally secure.
Contain essential supplies including water, basic food items, first aid materials, and communication devices.
This is not about panic. It is about preparation. Most of us hope never to use such measures. But knowing they are in place provides reassurance.
Staying Alert to What’s Happening in Bahrain
While the situation seems to have been diffused immediately with no loss of lives or extreme damage in Qatar, Bahrain and the neighbouring GCC countries, there are security measures
You can take steps to stay informed, alert, and prepared as regional tensions subside.
Here’s what you need to do to enable notifications on the MyGov application:
Downloading the MyGov application
Open the app and log in using the Advanced eKey 2.0
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