Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage
Discover Bahrain's heritage at Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic gateway to Manama's vibrant souq and a symbol of the Kingdom's rich culture.
Bab Al Bahrain, or 'Gateway of Bahrain', is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Manama. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, it originally served as the main entrance to the Manama Souq and housed government administrative offices. At the time of its construction, the building stood on the Manama coastline; however, due to extensive land reclamation projects throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the structure is now several kilometers inland. The monument was refurbished in 1986 to incorporate Islamic architectural features. In 2013, the facade and interiors were completely renovated, and the ground floor now houses a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop. Today, Bab Al Bahrain serves as a symbol of Bahrain's rich history and culture. It marks the entrance to the bustling Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace filled with shops selling spices, textiles, perfumes, and local handicrafts. The area around Bab Al Bahrain has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly plaza, enhancing its appeal as a cultural and tourist destination. Visitors can explore the unique blend of traditional and modern Bahraini culture, admire the architecture, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Manama Souq. Bab Al Bahrain is expected to serve as an interchange station for the Bahrain Metro, which is expected to be fully operational by 2030.
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for a livelier experience and to avoid the midday heat.
- Bargain when shopping in the Manama Souq to get the best prices on souvenirs and local products.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking while exploring the souq and surrounding area.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas of the souq.
A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain
- ROAD 475, 304 Bab Al Bahrain Ave, Manama, Manama Center, BH
- +97317298777
Getting There
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Walking
From the Bahrain National Museum, walk north along the Corniche towards the Financial Harbour. Continue straight, passing the World Trade Center on your left. Bab Al Bahrain will be visible ahead, approximately a 15-20 minute walk. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
From Manama's central bus terminal, several bus routes will take you to Bab Al Bahrain. Check the Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single journey costs 275 fils, and a day pass is available for 700 fils.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Manama. A short taxi ride from the Bahrain City Centre Mall to Bab Al Bahrain typically costs between BHD 2 to BHD 3, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare or check the app estimate before starting your journey.
