Bab Al Bahrain, Juffair Travel Guide

Bab Al Bahrain, or 'Gateway of Bahrain', is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Manama, Bahrain. 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. Notably, the building once stood on the Manama coastline, but due to extensive land reclamation, it now stands several kilometers inland.In 1986, Bab Al Bahrain underwent renovations to incorporate Islamic architectural features. A comprehensive refurbishment in 2013 restored the building to its former glory, with the ground floor now housing the tourism information office and a handicrafts shop. Today, Bab Al Bahrain marks the entrance to the bustling Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace filled with shops offering spices, textiles, perfumes, and local handicrafts.Visitors can explore the Manama Souq, admire the architecture of Bab Al Bahrain, and experience Bahraini culture. The landmark also hosts cultural events and exhibitions. Nearby attractions include the Bahrain National Museum and the Al Fateh Grand Mosque. Bab Al Bahrain is expected to serve as an interchange station for the Bahrain Metro, which is expected to be fully operational by 2030.