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Souq Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage

Explore Bahrain's heritage at Souq Bab Al Bahrain: a vibrant market with traditional crafts, spices, and local flavors in the heart of Manama.

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Souq Bab Al Bahrain, located in the heart of Manama, is a vibrant traditional market that serves as a cultural and commercial hub. It offers a sensory-rich experience with its diverse shops, traditional crafts, spices, and local eateries.

A brief summary to Souq Bab Al Bahrain

  • 6HJG+MMG, Government Ave, Manama, Manama Center, BH
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter shopping experience and cooler temperatures.
  • Don't hesitate to bargain; it's a common practice and can lead to better deals.
  • Try local street food from various stalls for an authentic taste of Bahraini cuisine.
  • Bring cash, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
  • Take your time to explore; the souq has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Manama Center area, head towards Government Avenue. Look for signs directing you to Souq Bab Al Bahrain. The market is located at 6HJG+MMG, Government Ave, which is a prominent landmark in Manama. Once you reach Government Avenue, you should see the entrance to the souq, characterized by traditional archways and a bustling atmosphere filled with shops selling local crafts, spices, and more.

  • Public Transport

    Locate the nearest bus stop and take a bus that heads towards the Manama Center. Buses frequently pass through the area, and you can ask the driver to let you know when you reach the stop for Souq Bab Al Bahrain. The stop will be very close to Government Avenue, from which you can easily walk to the souq entrance. Bus routes A1, A2, 10, 11, 12, 19, 41, 45, X2, and X3 all stop near Bab Al Bahrain. The closest bus stations to Souq Bab Al Bahrain in Manama are Government Ave-1/Manama Centre and Government Ave-2/Manama Center. A single bus ticket costs 0.30 BHD. A 'Go Card' can be purchased for 0.50 BHD and topped up for cheaper fares (0.25 BHD per journey). A daily cap of 0.60 BHD applies when using a Go Card.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    If you prefer a more direct route, you can hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. Simply provide the driver with the destination: 'Souq Bab Al Bahrain, Government Avenue, Manama'. The drivers are familiar with the location and will drop you off right at the entrance of the souq. From Manama Airport (BAH) to Bab Al Bahrain, a taxi will take approximately 7 minutes and cost between $10 - $13 (3.8 - 4.9 BHD). Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand. Note that a more expensive night rate applies between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards Manama City Center and follow signs for Government Avenue. Parking is available in nearby parking lots, including the Bab Al Bahrain Parking Lot and the Bahrain Financial Harbour Parking Lot. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around 0.5-1 BHD per hour. Amakin Souq, located next to Bab Al Bahrain Souq, offers a high-tech parking system.

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Discover more about Souq Bab Al Bahrain

Souq Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway to Bahrain,' is an iconic landmark and bustling marketplace in the heart of Manama. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, it originally served as the main entrance to Manama Souq and housed government offices. Today, it stands as a symbol of Bahrain's rich history and a vibrant center for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration. As you step through the iconic archway, you're immediately immersed in a sensory labyrinth of narrow alleyways filled with the aroma of spices, the vibrant colors of textiles, and the sounds of bargaining. The souq offers a wide array of goods, from traditional Bahraini crafts and gold jewelry to modern products. You can find spices, perfumes, textiles, incense, and souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local delicacies such as shawarma, kebabs, and traditional sweets. Bab Al Bahrain itself has a rich history. It once stood on the Manama coastline, serving as the primary customs house. Due to land reclamation, it's now located inland. The monument was refurbished in 1986 to incorporate Islamic architectural features. Today, it houses a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop. The area surrounding Bab Al Bahrain has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly plaza, making it a welcoming space for visitors.

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