Current Account in Bahrain

0POSTS

9 years ago

Dear Expats,

I need advice on banks in Bahrain. I need a basic current account - just to receive local salary and to get cash from ATMs.

Any insights, recommendations and information are much appreciated.

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logicalindian Bahrain Expert

3515POSTS

9 years ago

Hi,

Its a personal choice here, most of the bank have a similar setup, i have been banking with ahli united and standard chartered. Keep in mind to choose a bank which is close to your workplace or home, so that you can visit it quickly if the need arises.

T&R

ogzcmn Active member

49POSTS

9 years ago

Hi, i have opened on BBK and it seems like good. I can advise.

capriole Active member

48POSTS

9 years ago

Hi ,

The only difference between a savings account and a current account in most banks is the issuance of a cheque book with the current account. If that is not a requirement for you then a savings account will suffice for what you need (ATM debit card, salary and web banking).

PhilTay Member

23POSTS

9 years ago

I use HSBC for a couple of reasons, this is only my opinion I do not profess to be an expert

1. It is easy to transfer to my UK account
2. Their web banking is better
3. I can pay off the credit card easier than other banks
4. Other bank services (loans etc.) are easier to set up

Mythril Contributor

110POSTS

9 years ago

PhilTay wrote:
I use HSBC for a couple of reasons, this is only my opinion I do not profess to be an expert

1. It is easy to transfer to my UK account
2. Their web banking is better
3. I can pay off the credit card easier than other banks
4. Other bank services (loans etc.) are easier to set up

I also use HSBC and pretty much agree with all of the above, my only criticism of HSBC is that the ATM/Debit card doesn't work online, therefore have to use their credit card for online purchases.

GuestPoster45144 Guest

0POSTS

9 years ago

PhilTay wrote:
1. It is easy to transfer to my UK account

easy but, from my experience in Saudi with SABB, very very expensive.

Have you ever done a comparison between BFC, say, and the HSBC online transfer rate.

I haven't found a rate better than BFC in Bahrain so if anyone has a source to share, please do.