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Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage

Discover Bahrain's heritage at Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic gateway to Manama's vibrant souq and cultural heart.

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Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway to 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 welcomes visitors to explore the vibrant souq.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

Local tips

  • Explore the Manama Souq for spices, textiles, perfumes, and traditional Bahraini crafts.
  • Visit the tourist information center inside Bab Al Bahrain for maps and local tips.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the souq and surrounding areas.
  • Bargain respectfully when shopping in the Manama Souq to get the best prices.
  • Attend cultural events and exhibitions often held in the area to experience Bahraini traditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Bahrain Financial Harbour, walk south on Government Avenue. Bab Al Bahrain will be directly ahead, approximately a 5-10 minute walk. The distinctive archway is easily visible. Note the Central Post Office on the opposite side of Government Avenue.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Bab Al Bahrain, including routes 12, 19, A1, X2, and 41. Check the Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Alight at the 'Bab Albahrain' or 'Government Avenue-1/Bab Al Bahrain' stop, both a 1-minute walk from the entrance. A single bus fare is approximately 0.30 BHD, payable to the driver. Purchasing a 'Go Card' for 0.50 BHD allows for cheaper fares (0.25 BHD per journey).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Manama. Simply request a ride to Bab Al Bahrain. The fare from a central location in Manama, such as the Bahrain City Centre Mall, should cost approximately 2-3 BHD, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, translating to “Gateway of Bahrain,” stands as an iconic landmark embodying Bahrain's rich history and culture. 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. Extensive land reclamation has shifted its location inland from the coast. Refurbished in 1986 with Islamic architectural elements and again in 2013, Bab Al Bahrain now features a tourist information office and handicrafts shop on the ground floor. The structure consists of a large archway with pedestrian walkways. Government Avenue, in front of Bab Al Bahrain, is home to banks and businesses. More than just a gateway, Bab Al Bahrain symbolizes Bahrain's heritage as a trading hub. It provides access to the Manama Souq, a traditional market offering spices, textiles, jewelry, and local crafts. The area hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and celebrations. Bab Al Bahrain stands as a testament to Bahrain's past, present, and future, blending tradition with modernity.

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