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Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage

Explore Bahrain's heritage at Bab Al Bahrain, the gateway to Manama's vibrant souq, offering a rich cultural and historical experience.

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Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway of Bahrain,' is a historical landmark in Manama, serving as the entrance to the Manama Souq. Built in 1949, it once housed government offices and overlooked the sea. Today, it symbolizes Bahrain's heritage and offers a vibrant cultural experience.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense summer heat and enjoy exploring 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.
  • Wear comfortable footwear, as the area around Bab Al Bahrain and the Manama Souq involves a lot of walking.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Bab Al Bahrain is located in the heart of Manama, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels and landmarks. 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 the Manama Souq. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes connect to Bab Al Bahrain. From Bahrain International Airport, take bus A2 towards the University of Bahrain/Bahrain International Circuit. The bus takes you in 15 to 20 minutes to Bab Al Bahrain Station in the centre of the city. Tickets cost 0.30 BHD, available from the bus driver. A Go Card costs 0.50 BHD, and a single journey will cost 0.25 BHD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama. A taxi from Bahrain International Airport to Bab Al Bahrain costs at least 6 BHD. From the airport, the ride typically takes 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay a base fare of 2 BHD, plus 1 BHD per kilometer. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also available.

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Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

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, it originally served as the main entrance to the Manama Souq and housed government administrative offices. Extensive land reclamation in the later half of the 20th century has shifted the coastline several kilometers north, leaving Bab Al Bahrain inland. Refurbished in 1986 with Islamic architectural features and again in 2013 to restore it to its former glory, Bab Al Bahrain stands as a testament to Bahrain's rich history and culture. Today, the ground floor houses a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop, welcoming visitors to explore Bahrain's heritage. Stepping through the archway leads directly into the bustling Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace filled with the sights, sounds, and aromas of Bahraini culture. Here, you can find a wide array of goods, including spices, textiles, perfumes, and traditional handicrafts. The souq also offers a unique shopping experience reminiscent of commerce from days long past. Bab Al Bahrain is more than just a historical building; it's a vibrant hub for cultural activities and events. It represents Bahrain's past as a vital trading center and its openness to the world, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation's vibrant history.

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