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Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's History

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Explore Bahrain's heritage at Bab Al Bahrain, the gateway to Manama's vibrant souq and a symbol of the kingdom's rich history.

Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway of Bahrain,' is a historical landmark in the heart of Manama. Built in 1949, it once served as the main entrance to the Manama Souq and housed government offices. Today, it stands as a symbol of Bahrain's heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the kingdom's rich past and vibrant present.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

  • Monday 9 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-12:30 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bab Al Bahrain.

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense summer heat and enjoy exploring the souq comfortably.
  • Bargain respectfully when shopping in the souq; it's part of the culture and can lead to great deals on souvenirs and handicrafts.
  • Try traditional Bahraini sweets and coffee at one of the local cafes for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Dress modestly when visiting, especially if you plan to visit nearby religious sites like the Al Fateh Grand Mosque.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Bahrain Financial Harbour, walk south along Government Avenue. Bab Al Bahrain will be directly ahead, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. The route is pedestrian-friendly.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes connect to Bab Al Bahrain. Bus lines A1, A2, 10 and 11 connect Bahrain International Airport with the capital Manama. Bus line A2 towards University of Bahrain / Bahrain International Circuit is the fastest and takes you in 15 to 20 minutes to Bab Al Bahrain Station in the centre of the city. A single journey costs 300 fils (approximately $0.80). Tickets can be purchased on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama. A short taxi ride from the Diplomatic Area to Bab Al Bahrain will cost approximately 2-3 BHD during the day. Ensure the driver uses the meter.

Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, or the 'Gateway of Bahrain', is an iconic landmark located in Customs Square in Manama's central business district. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, advisor to the Emir, it originally stood on the Manama coastline and served as the main entrance to the Manama Souq. Extensive land reclamation in the later half of the 20th century has shifted the coastline several kilometers north.Once the seat of government administrative offices, today Bab Al Bahrain houses tourism sector offices and a visitor's center. A complete refurbishment in 2013 restored the building to its former glory, with the ground floor now featuring a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop. The monument consists of a huge archway, serving as the entrance to the Manama Souq, with pedestrian archways on either side.Stepping through Bab Al Bahrain transports visitors into the vibrant Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace brimming with shops selling spices, textiles, perfumes, and local handicrafts. The souq offers a unique shopping experience reminiscent of old-world commerce. The area around Bab Al Bahrain has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly plaza, enhancing its appeal as a cultural and tourist destination.

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