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Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage

Explore Bahrain's rich history and vibrant culture at Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic gateway to the bustling Manama Souq.

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Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway of Bahrain,' is a historical landmark in Manama, serving as the entrance to the Manama Souq. Built in 1949, it once housed government offices and marked the coastline. Today, it symbolizes Bahrain's heritage and offers a vibrant cultural and shopping experience.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

Local tips

  • Explore the Manama Souq for spices, textiles, traditional crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Visit the tourism office inside Bab Al Bahrain for information and guidance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the souq's narrow alleyways.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the Bahrain National Museum and Al Fateh Grand Mosque.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Bahrain Financial Harbour, walk southwest along Government Avenue. Bab Al Bahrain will be on your left, marking the entrance to Manama Souq. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve Bab Al Bahrain. From Manama Bus Terminal, take bus routes A1, 19, 45, or others to the 'Government Avenue-1/Bab Al Bahrain' stop. The ride is short, and the fare is approximately 0.30 BHD. A 'Go Card' offers cheaper fares at 0.25 BHD per journey.

  • Taxi

    From the Bahrain National Museum, a taxi ride to Bab Al Bahrain is approximately 5 minutes. Taxis are readily available. The estimated fare is around 2 BHD, with a base fare of 2 BHD and 1 BHD per kilometer.

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Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, translating to “Gateway of Bahrain,” stands as an iconic landmark in the heart of Manama, Bahrain. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, advisor to the Emir, it originally served as the main entrance to the Manama Souq and housed government administrative offices. Over the years, land reclamation has shifted the structure several kilometers inland from the coast it once overlooked. The building was renovated in 1986, incorporating Islamic architectural elements, and again in 2012 to restore it to its original state. Today, Bab Al Bahrain houses the tourism sector offices and a visitor center, providing information to tourists. Stepping through Bab Al Bahrain's archway leads into the bustling Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace filled with shops selling spices, textiles, perfumes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The area around Bab Al Bahrain has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly plaza, hosting cultural events and exhibitions. Nearby attractions include the Bahrain National Museum and Al Fateh Grand Mosque, offering a comprehensive cultural experience. Bab Al Bahrain is expected to serve as an interchange station for the Bahrain Metro, which is expected to be fully operational by 2030.

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