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Bin Matar House: A Pearl Merchant's Legacy

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Explore Bahrain's pearling history at this beautifully restored traditional house and museum in the heart of Muharraq.

Bin Matar House in Muharraq is a beautifully restored museum showcasing Bahrain's pearling history and traditional architecture. Once the residence of a prominent pearl merchant, it now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, offering a glimpse into Bahrain's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Bin Matar House

  • Monday 8 am-2 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon for a more comfortable experience, especially if you plan to explore the courtyard.
  • Check the Sheikh Ebrahim Center's website for current art exhibitions and cultural events happening at Bin Matar House during your visit.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby historic houses in Muharraq, such as the Shaikh Isa bin Ali House, for a comprehensive cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Bin Matar House is centrally located in Muharraq, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. If you're in the Muharraq Souq area, head east towards Road No 1129. The house is located on this road and is easily identifiable. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the heart of the souq. Look for signs pointing towards the Pearling Path; Bin Matar House is a key site along this path.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Muharraq. From Bahrain International Airport, a taxi ride to Bin Matar House takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxi fares in Muharraq start at 1.5 BHD, with an additional 1.5 BHD per kilometer. A 5km ride would cost about 9 BHD. You can also use ride-hailing apps to book a taxi.

  • Public Transport

    You can take the A1 or A2 bus to Muharraq. The nearest bus station to Bin Matar House is Airport Avenue-3/Muharraq Park, which is a 4-minute walk away. Bus tickets cost approximately $1.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Road No 1129 in Muharraq. Note that parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited, especially during peak hours. However, a multi-story car park is located near Bin Matar House and the Green Corner, offering paid parking for visitors. Expect to pay a nominal hourly or daily rate. Street parking may also be available, but be sure to park in designated areas and observe any parking restrictions.

Discover more about Bin Matar House

Bin Matar House, located in the heart of Muharraq, stands as a monument to Bahrain's pearling past. Constructed in 1905 by Salman bin Hussein Matar, a leading figure in the pearl trade, the house served as his family residence and a majlis, a gathering place for traders and community leaders.Designed by renowned Bahraini architect Mussa bin Hamad, the building exemplifies traditional Bahraini architecture, utilizing materials such as palm tree trunks, sea-stone, and gypsum. For decades, Bin Matar House was a hub of social and commercial activity, witnessing the ebb and flow of Bahrain's thriving pearl industry. In the 1940s, it even served as a clinic before becoming the home of the Al Eslah Club from the 1950s to the 1980s.Today, Bin Matar House operates as a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of pearl diving and trading. The permanent pearl exhibition explains the history of pearls and pearl fishing in Bahrain, with a special focus on the Bin Matar family's contributions. The museum also showcases the traditional lifestyle and architectural styles of the region, with exhibits featuring traditional clothing, household items, and historical photographs. The house also features an airy gallery that hosts rotating exhibitions by local, Arab, and international artists, fostering dialogue and exchange between different artistic traditions.Visiting Bin Matar House offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience Bahrain's cultural heritage. It is a chance to learn about the history of pearling, admire traditional Bahraini architecture, and engage with contemporary art.

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