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Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage

Explore Bahrain's heritage at Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic gateway to Manama's vibrant souq and cultural heart.

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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 stood on the coastline, now several kilometers inland due to land reclamation. Today, it symbolizes Bahrain's heritage and is a hub for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

  • 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

  • Explore the Manama Souq for spices, textiles, perfumes, and traditional Bahraini crafts.
  • Visit the tourist information center inside Bab Al Bahrain for maps and local tips.
  • Try traditional Bahraini cuisine and coffee at nearby cafes.
  • Attend cultural events and exhibitions often held in the area.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the souq's narrow alleyways.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in the Manama Centre area, head towards Government Avenue. Bab Al Bahrain is a prominent landmark characterized by traditional archways. Follow signs to the Manama Souq; the entrance is marked by Bab Al Bahrain. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve Bab Al Bahrain. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route and stops. Alight at the Government Avenue-1/Bab Al Bahrain or Bab Albahrain stops, a short walk from the monument. A single bus fare costs approximately BHD 0.30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama. Request a ride to Bab Al Bahrain on Government Avenue. From Manama city center, a short taxi ride will cost approximately BHD 2-3. Taxi fares start at BHD 2.0, with an additional BHD 1.0 per kilometer.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available near Bab Al Bahrain. Bab Al Bahrain Parking is a centrally located option. Parking rates are affordable. Be aware that traffic can be heavy in the area, especially during peak hours.

Unlock the Best of Bab Al Bahrain

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Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, or 'Gateway of Bahrain', is more than just a historical building; it's a vibrant symbol of Bahrain's rich heritage and a bustling hub of cultural activity. 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. Over the years, extensive land reclamation has shifted the coastline several kilometers north, moving Bab Al Bahrain inland. Despite these changes, the monument retains its historical charm, enhanced by a refurbishment in 1986 that incorporated Islamic architectural features. A further renovation in 2013 modernized the facade and interiors, adding a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop on the ground floor. Today, Bab Al Bahrain marks the entrance to the Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace brimming with shops offering textiles, spices, perfumes, and local handicrafts. The area hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and economic initiatives, fostering a space for social engagement. Visitors can explore art galleries, sample Bahraini coffee, and discover the blend of old and new that defines this iconic landmark.

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