Manama, Bahrain's ultra-modern pearl

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Manama, Bahrain's ultra-modern pearl

Manama is the bustling capital of the Kingdom of Bahrain, a constitutional monarchy in the Arabian Gulf. Surrounded by azure waters, Bahrain comprises more than 30 islands and is strategically positioned at the centre of major trade routes since antiquity. It nestles between the Qatar peninsula and the north eastern coast of Saudi Arabia, a short hop away via the 25 km King Fahd Causeway. Manama is a modern city, all glass-clad skyscrapers and air-conditioned shopping malls. Yet its heritage is revered by residents, seen in attractions like the acclaimed Bahrain National Museum's ancient artefacts and the National Theatre's traditional performances. The city's thriving Bab al-Bahrain bazaar offers wares ranging from colourful handwoven fabrics and spices to pearls. Bahrain is the site of the ancient Dilmun civilization, famous for its pearl fisheries, considered the best in the world.

37°C

Scattered Clouds

72%

6.32 m/s

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Top Attractions in Manama

Ancient treasures at Bahrain National Museum

This is the oldest and largest public museum in the Kingdom, covering 6,000 years of Bahrain's history. It makes a striking first impression with its white marble façade and waterfront peninsula setting. Natural light floods the spacious exhibition halls and grand foyer. Currency, tools, pottery and art from ancient Dilmun are a treat for archaeology lovers, while nature fans will enjoy the specimens of Bahrain's flora and fauna. Islamic history is well represented with ancient manuscripts of the Quran. After admiring the well-curated collections here, enjoy the views across the bay from the stylish museum café terrace. This is the oldest and largest public museum in the Kingdom and covers 6000 years of Bahrain's history, with a particular appeal to lovers of archaeology, with currency, tools, pottery and art, and nature lovers, with specimens of Bahrain's flora and fauna. Islamic history is well-represented with ancient manuscripts of the Quran.
History comes to life at Bahrain Fort

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century, the majestic Fort provides sweeping views of the Gulf. Its sturdy, elevated position is on an ancient tell, a man-made mound created over the centuries of urban growth. This mound features seven layers, telling stories of multiple civilisations. Once the capital of the Dilmun civilisation, Bahrain Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Archaeological excavations at the site provide wonderful insight into the Copper and Bronze Ages of Bahrain. Learn more about the site's 2,300 years of history with a free audio guide and visit to the site's museum.
Haggling at Manama Souq

More than just a marketplace, the Souq is the capital's open-air trading hub, its entrance marked by the soaring archway of the Gateway of Bahrain. The market's hustle and bustle accompany the myriad of deals on offer. Make your way along the winding roads and through the warren of narrow alleyways to get lost in the sights and sounds on offer. You'll find everything from used electronics to glittering gold jewellery, fragrant spices to handwoven textiles. Street food kiosks provide fresh-pressed juices and milky black tea when you need refreshment. When it comes to price, negotiation isn't just accepted, it's expected.
A true Tree of Life

Near the highest point in Bahrain stands a 400-year-old wonder and nature lover's dream, called the Tree of Life. This mesquite tree, known locally as Shajarat-al-Hayat, is low, wide, and craggy. Though it's abundantly covered in green leaves, the tree stands completely alone, surrounded by the vastness of the desert. It's this striking contrast – between the burst of greenery and its dry, expansive setting – that has elicited generations of legend and drawn thousands of visitors each year. Its secret is a taproot that can reach down to water 115 feet beneath the surface.

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