Background

Khalaf House: A Glimpse into Bahrain's Pearling Past

Explore Bahrain's rich pearling history at Khalaf House, a beautifully preserved heritage home in the heart of Manama. A cultural gem!

4.5

Khalaf House, located in the heart of Manama, is a meticulously preserved heritage home that offers a captivating journey into Bahrain's pearling history. Built in 1921 for a prominent pearl merchant, it showcases traditional Bahraini architecture and provides insights into the life of a wealthy pearl trader.

A brief summary to Khalaf House

  • 6HHH+MPX, Rd No 109, Manama, Manama Center, BH
  • +97338243823
  • 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 months for a more comfortable exploration of the house and its surroundings.
  • Check for local events or workshops happening at the house to engage with the local community.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Bab Al Bahrain and the Manama Souq.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Bab Al Bahrain, head east on Government Avenue, then turn right onto Road No 109. Khalaf House will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic.

  • Public Transport

    From the Manama Bus Terminal, take bus routes A1, A2, 12, 19, 41, 45, X2, X3 or X4 and disembark at the Manama Gate or Ibn Sina Health Center bus stops, both of which are a short 5-minute walk to Khalaf House. A single bus fare costs 275 fils.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Manama. From most locations in Manama Center, a taxi ride to Khalaf House will cost approximately 2-3 BHD, depending on traffic and distance. Be sure the driver turns on the meter.

Unlock the Best of Khalaf House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Khalaf House

Khalaf House, also known as Bait Khalaf, is a beautifully restored heritage home in the heart of Manama, Bahrain. Constructed in 1921 for Mohammad Salman Khalaf, a prominent pearl merchant, the house stands as one of the few remaining traditional houses of pearling merchants, who significantly shaped Bahrain's economy. The Khalaf family generously donated the house to the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, transforming it into a cultural landmark. Restored and reopened in 2013, Khalaf House presents a unique example of traditional Bahraini architecture, characterized by its intricate designs, elaborately carved wooden doors and windows, and carefully selected antique furnishings. These elements combine to create an immersive experience, transporting visitors back to a time when pearl diving was the cornerstone of Bahrain's prosperity. The house features a spacious open courtyard surrounded by rooms that each reveal a different chapter of history. One room showcases family artifacts and photographs, providing personal insights into the Khalaf family's life. Another room displays tools and equipment from Khalaf's pearl trading business, illustrating the intricacies of this once-thriving industry. A third room honors notable figures from Manama's past with historic portraits, further enriching the cultural narrative. The architectural details of Khalaf House are particularly noteworthy. The traditional wooden features, combined with the open-air courtyard, create an atmosphere of serenity and authenticity. The carved wooden balconies, meticulously restored, showcase the craftsmanship of the era. The house's design reflects a blend of functionality and aesthetics, providing a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy pearl merchant and his family. Khalaf House serves not only as a visual delight but also as a cultural landmark, offering insights into the past through its meticulously renovated spaces.

Popular Experiences near Khalaf House

Popular Hotels near Khalaf House

Select Currency