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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 Souq, offering a vibrant mix of culture, shopping, and history.

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Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway of Bahrain,' is a historical landmark in the heart of Manama. Built in 1949, it once served as the main entrance to the Manama Souq and housed government offices. Today, it stands as a symbol of Bahrain's rich heritage and a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for a livelier experience as the Manama Souq comes to life.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the souq involves a lot of walking.
  • Be prepared to negotiate prices when shopping in the Manama Souq.
  • Try local Bahraini cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.
  • Consider taking a taxi or using ride-sharing services due to limited parking.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Manama Centre, Bab Al Bahrain is easily accessible on foot. Head west towards Government Avenue. The landmark is located at the end of the avenue, marking the entrance to Manama Souq. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve Bab Al Bahrain. From Manama Bus Terminal, take bus routes A1, 19, 45, 12, 41, A2, X4 or X3. Alight at the Bab Albahrain or Government Avenue-1/Bab Al Bahrain stop, both a 1-minute walk to the landmark. A single bus fare costs approximately 275 fils.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama. A short taxi ride from the Bahrain National Museum to Bab Al Bahrain, for example, typically costs between 2 to 3 BHD. Ensure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare beforehand. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also available.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available near Bab Al Bahrain. Bab Al Bahrain Parking is a centrally located option with affordable rates. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak hours. Alternative parking is available at Bahrain Financial Harbour Parking Lot, a short walk away. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around 0.5 to 1 BHD per hour.

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Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, or 'Gateway of Bahrain', is an iconic landmark located in the central business district of Manama. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, the British adviser to the Emir, it originally stood on the Manama coastline, serving as the main entrance to the Manama Souq. Extensive land reclamation in the later half of the 20th century has since moved the structure several kilometers inland. Historically, the building housed the government's administrative offices and overlooked the sea, making it a vital commercial hub. In 1986, the monument was refurbished to incorporate Islamic architectural features. A complete refurbishment in 2013 saw the ground floor transformed to house a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop. Today, Bab Al Bahrain marks the entrance to the bustling Manama Souq, a traditional marketplace filled with the sights, sounds, and aromas of Bahraini culture. Visitors can explore a labyrinth of narrow alleyways brimming with shops selling spices, textiles, perfumes, and traditional handicrafts. The landmark is open to the public and serves as a reminder of Bahrain's past as a vital trading hub. Nearby attractions include the Bahrain National Museum and the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.

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