Conveniently located in Manama, Bab Al Bahrain is one of Bahrain’s most prominent attractions and archeological sites. Many tourists come here to identify this unique Arab culture year-round. It’s one of the oldest markets in the kingdom, coming with impressive design and beautifully crafted details. With a fascinating arch dating back to 75 years, Bab Al Bahrain is a pretty nice place to hit while visiting this Arab nation reflecting its style and character. Most importantly, it’s well-preserved throughout the years, fusing the contemporary sense with a creative structure. Bab Al Bahrain translates into Bahrain gateway in Arabic, served as a commercial hub gathering all traders flocking from different areas of the Arab peninsula.
Today, Bab Al Bahrain or Souq Al Manama Shapi (or for public) is still one of the most popular markets in Manama.
Side tip: if you are looking for apartments for rent in Bahrain, villas for rent in Bahrain, or a studio for rent in Bahrain, Manama has a bunch of them that will meet your needs and budget.
Overlooking the Gulf Sea, this spot has been built to expand the residential areas to offer many alternatives for locals. Thanks to its unique Islamic style, Bab Al Bahrain has become one of the hotspots in Bahrain, drawing the attention of tourists who are aspiring to immerse themselves in the Arab culture. Moreover, it’s a shopping hub where you can find a myriad of things on offer.
Highlights of Bab Al Bahrain
- Founded by Charles Belgrave, a British advisor to the rulers of Bahrain, in 1949, Bab Al Bahrain is packed full of interest points.
- Many renovations have made this place flourish and maintain its glory.
- This place now is a mixture of creativity, artistic sense, and tasty facilities like anything before in Bahrain.
- With an imposing structure, this place is to impress everyone’s visits consisting of 3 different entrances connecting with a beautiful arch.
- Don’t miss your chance to check out the holes in the main building that were used to repel aggression against the city.
- This spot has many facets to discover.
- Behind this gate, you can see the famous large open-air market, a great complex including many different activities in such one place. There are stores, restaurants, and more.
- Many administrative offices are located on the ground floor of the gate, making it easy to go about and see all the city offers.
- There is a store for handmade craftings; don’t miss out on checking its excellent exhibitions on display, or you can buy some souvenirs.
- If you are willing to dig deeper into the shopping complex, you need to head to the spices and herbs section, with vibrant colors and pleasant fragrances.
- There is a partition for clothes for all ages.
- And when you feel tired, you can sip your coffee at one of the local coffee shops lined the place.
- Not only that, but there are a plethora of gold and jewelry shops in the area with specific items. Every day, many tourists come to this famed gold market in Bahrain.
- Undoubtedly, it has something for everyone.
- It’s an old and majestic spot in Bahrain with an authentic atmosphere.
- It will provide you with an exceptional shopping experience with a heritage scene.
- Discovering one of Bahrain’s best and oldest markets will help you know more about its culture.
- Moreover, it’s approximately close to many hotels in Bahrain.
Location
- Bab Al Bahrain is located at the entrance of the Manama Souq, one of the most vibrant and lively spots in Bahrain’s capital city of Bahrain, especially on the 475 route.
- It’s right next to King Faisal Highway. Additionally, it’s situated adjacent to Bahrain Financial Harbour.
- It lies between the borders between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. This area once housed the government administrative offices; however, you can find many banks and other commercial institutions scattered throughout the market.
When You Can Visit Bab Al Bahrain
- Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf Sea, Bab Al Bahrain is a place to see the other side of Bahrain.
- Why Bab Al Bahrain? Apparently, you can visit this attraction anytime during the week. It opens from 9:00 am – 8:00 am. Yes, it’s available 24/7. However, there is a break between 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, during which many stores are closed. *Please be aware that the market closes at 9:00 pm on Fridays.
- It’s well-equipped to meet your needs.
- It will cost you nothing to enter this souq. Just be ready for the most exciting shopping experience you have ever had.
Best Activities to Do in Bab Al Bahrain
It’s a relaxed and cosmopolitan borough blending the shopping experience with a picnic expedition. Bab Al Bahrain is home to many classy eateries and places to enjoy the fresh air.
For long decades, this place housed many people who interacted and gathered for trade and other purposes, and now we will uncover things you can do here.
1- Snapping away wherever you go
- The islands that formulate the kingdom of Bahrain will offer you many experiences and adventures, but this place is distinctive and glorious.
- You will need to stop every moment to capture a brilliant shot manifesting Bahrain’s heritage.
2- Visit Popular Market
- Many civilizations, including the Dilmun, the Assyrian, and the Babylonian, had occupied this place, many historical sites you don’t want to miss out on during your visit.
- But this multifunctional spot offers many interest points and you can bring many beautiful products for reasonable prices.
3- Events and Festivals
- If you are lucky enough to visit Bahrain in March, you will be rewarded with attending plenty of irresistible events with cheerful atmospheric vibes.
- You’ll have a memorable experience by attending these events in the center of Manama Souq.
Popular Hotels Nearby to Bab Al Bahrain
Bab Al Bahrain is a tourist destination and you will find many upscale hotels around, such as:
- InterContinental Bahrain, an IHG Hotel
- The Merchant House, Manama
Looking for a place to spend the best vacation ever, Explore Zallaq in Bahrain, an excellent place to visit and live in. Leave a comment and tell us your favorite spots in Bahrain.
