The British Embassy in Bahrain will remain open today, despite security threats against western powers, said a report.

However, it advised its staff to be "extra vigilant" and urged British nationals to avoid large crowds and demonstrations, according to a report in the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

A statement published on the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office's website said demonstrations and protests were regular occurrences in Bahrain, but some could be "violent".

"The government of Bahrain has imposed a curfew on the waterways around Bahrain between 6pm to 4am. You should respect this curfew," it added.

"You must have legal status in Bahrain when you depart. There is a general threat from terrorism. Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region."

It comes after the US embassy here announced it will close its doors today in response to unspecified security threats.

The State Department yesterday issued a travel alert to its nationals, which was based on the same information that prompted it to close 21 diplomatic missions around the region.

It stated that Al Qaeda might be planning attacks in August, particularly in Middle East and North Africa.

People with visa appointments have been advised to contact the embassy's consular section for further information. – TradeArabia News Service