Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's History

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Explore Bahrain's heritage at Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic gateway to Manama Souq, offering a vibrant cultural and shopping experience.

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Bab Al Bahrain

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

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

ROAD 475, 304 Bab Al Bahrain Ave, Manama, Manama Center, BH
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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

Local tips

Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense summer heat and explore 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.

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Getting There

Walking

Bab Al Bahrain is located in the heart of Manama, easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels and attractions. From the Bahrain National Museum, walk north along the Corniche, then turn left onto Government Avenue. Bab Al Bahrain will be on your right, marking the entrance to Manama Souq. No costs involved.
Public Transport

Several bus routes serve Bab Al Bahrain. From Bahrain International Airport, take bus A2 to the Bab Al Bahrain station. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. A single journey costs 0.300 BHD, or 0.250 BHD if using a GO Card.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Manama. A taxi from Bahrain International Airport to Bab Al Bahrain costs approximately 6 BHD and takes 15-20 minutes. Ensure the driver uses the meter. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are also available.

Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, meaning “Gateway to Bahrain,” is an iconic landmark that stands as a testament to Bahrain's rich history and cultural heritage. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, advisor to the Emir, it originally served as the main entrance to Manama and housed government administrative offices.Over the years, land reclamation projects have shifted the coastline, leaving Bab Al Bahrain several kilometers inland. However, it remains the gateway to the bustling Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace filled with the aromas of spices, textiles, and local crafts.Refurbished in 1986 with Islamic architectural features and again in 2013 to restore its original glory, Bab Al Bahrain now houses a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop. It's not just a historical monument but also a space for cultural and social engagement, hosting various events and initiatives.Visitors can explore the vibrant Manama Souq, enjoy traditional Bahraini cuisine at nearby cafes, and admire the architecture of this historical gateway. Bab Al Bahrain stands as a symbol of Bahrain's past, its openness to the world, and its journey from a trading hub to a modern nation.