The 25-km causeway connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. You can cross by taxi or rental car if you have appropriate visa documentation.

About King Fahd Causeway (to Saudi Arabia)

The King Fahd Causeway is one of the engineering marvels of the Middle East — a 25-km series of bridges and artificial islands connecting the island nation of Bahrain to the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Opened in 1986, it carries approximately 60,000 vehicles daily and is the only land link between the two countries.

The causeway features a midpoint island with a restaurant and observation tower, plus the border control facilities for both countries. The crossing itself offers views of the open Gulf waters and is particularly scenic at sunset. For most travelers, the causeway serves a practical purpose: accessing Saudi Arabia\'s Eastern Province (Al Khobar, Dhahran, Dammam) or, in the opposite direction, Bahrainis and Saudi residents crossing for Bahrain\'s more relaxed social scene.

The Saudi side leads to Al Khobar and Dammam, major cities in Saudi Arabia\'s oil-rich Eastern Province. Al Khobar\'s Corniche and shopping malls are popular destinations. The causeway border crossing requires valid visas for both countries — Bahrain offers visa on arrival for many nationalities, while Saudi Arabia requires advance e-visa or specific visa arrangements.

Nearby Landmarks

Causeway Observation Tower Al Khobar Corniche Dhahran Bahrain border island

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $25-35 (BHD 10-13)
Time 45-60 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $20-30 (BHD 8-11)
Time 45-60 min

Arrivals Ground Floor

Step-by-Step Directions

1. From Bahrain Airport, take a taxi toward the King Fahd Causeway (30-40 min to border).
2. Ensure you have valid documentation for both Bahrain exit and Saudi entry.
3. Pass through Bahrain border control (passport check, vehicle inspection).
4. Cross the 25 km causeway — the midpoint island marks the border zone.
5. Pass through Saudi border control on the other side.
6. From the Saudi border, it\'s 20-30 min to Al Khobar or Dammam city centers.
7. Total journey from Bahrain Airport to Al Khobar: approximately 1.5-2 hours without delays.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $25-35 (BHD 10-13) 45-60 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $20-30 (BHD 8-11) 45-60 min Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The causeway operates 24 hours. Late-night crossings (after midnight) have minimal wait times. Taxis from Bahrain Airport can take you to the causeway and through to Al Khobar (negotiate fare: BHD 25-40 plus tolls). Some travelers use Uber to the Bahrain border, then take a Saudi taxi from the other side. Border formalities take 15-30 minutes at quiet times.

Luggage Tips

If crossing the causeway by taxi, ensure your driver is willing to make the full crossing (not all are). Luggage will be in the vehicle throughout — customs may request to inspect bags at either border. Keep passports and travel documents easily accessible for the two border checkpoints.

Accessibility

The causeway crossing is done entirely by vehicle, so wheelchair accessibility depends on your vehicle. Border control buildings on both sides have accessible facilities. Al Khobar on the Saudi side has modern, accessible infrastructure. Ensure your transport vehicle accommodates your mobility needs for the full journey.