Background

The Pearling Path: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Discover Bahrain's rich pearling history along Muharraq's 3.5km Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the island's cultural heritage.

5

The Pearling Path in Muharraq, Bahrain, is a 3.5 km trail showcasing the island's rich history as a center of the pearl trade. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises oyster beds, coastal segments, the Bu Mahir fort, and 17 historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the lives of pearl merchants, divers, and traders.

A brief summary to The Pearling Path

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the Pearling Path, as the trail covers a significant distance through the old city.
  • Follow the pearl-shaped streetlights to navigate the path through the historic streets and alleyways.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Pearling Path can be explored on foot, following the 3.5km route through Muharraq. Start at either the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre near Suq Al Qaysariyyah or the Qal'at Bu Mahir Visitor's Centre by the seashore. Follow the pearl-shaped lampposts to navigate the narrow lanes. Allow up to 3 hours to complete the path.

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take a bus to Muharraq. Bahrain Transportation operates buses every 20 minutes from Sh Isa Ave-2 in Manama to Al Muharraq. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and costs $1. From Al Muharraq bus station, the Pearling Path is a short walk away.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Manama and Muharraq. A taxi ride from Manama to Muharraq takes approximately 6 minutes and costs between $9 and $11. Taxis can drop you off at either visitor center or any point along the path.

Unlock the Best of The Pearling Path

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Pearling Path

The Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Muharraq, Bahrain, offers a profound journey into the island's pearling legacy. Before oil, pearling was the backbone of Bahrain's economy, shaping its culture and identity for millennia. The path consists of three oyster beds in Bahrain's northern waters, a portion of the coast and Bu Mahir fort on Muharraq Island's southern tip, and 17 buildings in Muharraq's historic district connected by a 3.5 km visitor pathway. Visitors can explore the residences and majlises of pearl merchants, traders, and divers, along with trade establishments, storage houses, and the Siyadi family mosque. The path includes a modern visitor center and public squares. The architecture reflects Bahraini style, with thick walls and small openings adapted to the climate. The Pearling Path aimed to create an eco-museum by preserving and renovating a 3.5 km stretch. The renovation efforts began with the restoration of 17 heritage buildings, which included homes, palaces, and mosques. Many of these buildings are still owned by families connected to the pearling community, making the preservation of these sites a protection of family memories and cultural heritage. Visitors can start at either the Qal'at Bu Mahir Visitor's Centre by the seashore or the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre near Suq Al Qaysariyyah, or from Siyadi Majlis. Follow the pearl-shaped streetlights through the streets and alleyways of historic Muharraq.

Popular Experiences near The Pearling Path

Popular Hotels near The Pearling Path

Select Currency