New Gulf Air flights make Bahrain easier to reach from the UK

Gulf Air has just launched a new route connecting London Gatwick to Bahrain, making it easier for UK travelers to reach this small but fascinating Gulf country.

The London–Bahrain route has become more competitive in 2025, with both Gulf Air and British Airways now offering direct flights from different London airports. Gulf Air, traditionally the main operator on this route, recently expanded with a new service from London Gatwick, complementing its existing Heathrow flights. British Airways, after initially planning to suspend its Bahrain route, reversed its decision and continues flying from Heathrow, with plans to increase frequency. While other major airlines offer one-stop flights via hubs like Doha or Dubai, Gulf Air and British Airways remain the only carriers offering direct connections—making this a route with limited but increasingly competitive options for travelers. Photo: Lorenzo Giacobbo, Flickr CC BY-ND 2.0

The service started on March 30, 2025, and runs three times a week—on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The new route adds to Gulf Air’s existing flights from London Heathrow, but this time from Gatwick, a popular airport for travelers based in southern England. The flight takes just over six and a half hours and uses a Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

 Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix

Bahrain might not be the first place people think of when planning a winter or spring getaway, but it has plenty to offer. With temperatures hovering in the mid-20s Celsius this time of year, it’s a good place for sun-seekers. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Bahrain Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), take a walk through the lively Manama souqs, or visit the enormous Al-Fateh Grand Mosque. There’s also the mysterious Tree of Life, which grows in the desert with no obvious source of water.

The launch of this new flight comes just ahead of the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix, taking place on April 13, which usually attracts a wave of international visitors.

 BA will continue flying to Bahrain

Meanwhile, British Airways had originally planned to stop flying to Bahrain in March 2025 due to operational issues, including a delay in engine parts for their long-haul aircraft. However, the airline reversed the decision after pressure from key stakeholders. BA will continue flying to Bahrain from London Heathrow three times a week, with plans to increase to daily service later this year.

For travelers, the short version is this: getting to Bahrain is now easier, and there are more flight options than before—especially if you’re flying out of London.