Families planning to travel during the final month of the summer holidays are being urged to take steps to ensure their safety abroad and enjoy a trouble-free trip.
Hidd Police Station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar said travellers should exercise common sense while overseas to protect both themselves and their belongings.
Speaking on the Interior Ministry’s Al Aman social media programme, Col Dr Bahar said proper planning for a safe journey begins before travellers even board their flight.
“If you are travelling through airports, whether in Bahrain or elsewhere, arrive early to avoid potential delays during check-in or security procedures, especially during the busy summer season,” he said.
“Download the MyGov app before you leave and keep all important documents for yourself and your children in a safe and easily accessible place.
“Whether you are at the airport, on the plane, or at your destination, always keep a close watch on your children. They are your responsibility.
“Also, keep an eye on your luggage and do not leave your belongings unattended, particularly your mobile phone.”
Bahraini families travelling abroad are advised to register on the Wejhaty app, keep their passports secure and follow official guidance from the Foreign Ministry and the Interior Ministry.
Travellers should ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their date of travel and keep secure digital copies on their mobile phones.
They are also advised to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or placing valuable jewellery in checked luggage, and instead use reliable international bank cards whenever possible.
Another key issue is safeguarding personal belongings. Col Dr Bahar noted that while Bahrain is one of the safest countries with very low levels of petty crime, travellers should not assume the same level of security elsewhere.
“Do not handle your personal belongings the way you would in Bahrain,” he said.
“Bahrain is a safe country and its people are good and kind. Other countries can also be safe and welcoming, but there may be individuals who target tourists.
“Be careful with your bank cards, never share your PIN number and do not hand your phone to strangers, regardless of the reason.”
Col Dr Bahar advised travellers to keep valuables close at all times and avoid leaving phones, wallets or bags unattended, including on tables at street cafés.
“Be extra careful and cautious for your own safety and always politely decline any strange requests and apologise kindly if necessary,” he said.
“Do not forget that when you travel abroad, you are an ambassador for Bahrain and its people.”
The GDN reported in June that the Foreign Ministry had launched its annual awareness campaign to educate Bahraini travellers on the services provided by diplomatic missions abroad during the summer holiday season.
The Ammanakom Allah (Travel Safe) campaign forms part of the National Plan to Promote the Spirit of Belonging to the Nation and Reinforce the Values of Citizenship (Bahrainouna).
Running throughout the summer, the campaign highlights the 24-hour services available through Bahraini embassies, consulates and diplomatic missions, as well as the ministry’s Call and Follow-up Centre, ensuring citizens can access assistance while travelling overseas.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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