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Dhow Building Yard: Bahrain's Living Maritime Heritage

Witness Bahrain's maritime history come to life at the Dhow Building Yard in Muharraq, where traditional boats are still crafted by hand.

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Witness the ancient craft of dhow construction at the Dhow Building Yard in Muharraq, Bahrain, the last remaining yard in the country. Skilled artisans build traditional wooden vessels using techniques passed down through generations, preserving Bahrain's rich maritime heritage. The yard offers a unique glimpse into the island's seafaring past and its connection to the sea.

A brief summary to Dhow Building yard

  • 6JXC+42V, Muharraq, BH

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to see the artisans actively working on the dhows and learn about their craft firsthand.
  • If you wish to take photographs, ask for permission first.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Fisherman's Port and the Muharraq Souq for a complete cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in Muharraq, walking to the Dhow Building Yard is a viable option. From the Muharraq Souq, head east towards Khalifa Al Kabeer Highway. Follow the highway, and you'll find the Dhow Building Yard on your right, before reaching the Fisherman's Port. The walk is approximately 20-25 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Bahrain's public bus network connects key locations including Manama, Muharraq, and Bahrain International Airport. Check the Moovit app for the latest bus routes and schedules to reach Muharraq. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the Dhow Building Yard.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Muharraq. A taxi ride from Muharraq city center to the Dhow Building Yard is a short trip. Taxi fares in Muharraq start at approximately 1.5 BHD, with an additional 1.5 BHD per kilometer. A 5km ride would cost about 9 BHD.

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Discover more about Dhow Building yard

The Dhow Building Yard in Muharraq stands as a living testament to Bahrain's profound connection to the sea. For centuries, dhows – traditional wooden sailing vessels – were the lifeblood of the island nation, serving as essential tools for pearling, fishing, trade, and transportation. Today, amidst the rapid modernization of Bahrain, this shipyard remains a vital link to the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the enduring legacy of dhow construction. Located near the Fisherman's Port, the Dhow Building Yard is the oldest and only remaining dhow building yard in Bahrain. Here, skilled artisans continue to craft these iconic vessels using techniques passed down through generations. The air is filled with the scent of freshly cut wood and the rhythmic sounds of hammering and sawing, creating a captivating atmosphere that transports you back in time. As you enter the yard, you'll be greeted by the sight of dhows in various stages of construction. Observe the master craftsmen meticulously shaping the teakwood hulls, carefully fitting the planks together, and securing them with hand-forged nails. What's truly remarkable is that these artisans rely on mental blueprints and time-honored traditions, rather than modern designs or tools. Their expertise and dedication are a testament to the enduring power of human skill and craftsmanship. The dhows themselves are more than just boats; they are symbols of Bahrain's maritime heritage. For centuries, these vessels connected the island nation to neighboring regions, facilitating commerce and cultural exchange. They were the workhorses of the pearl diving industry, which once fueled Bahrain's economy, and they provided livelihoods for countless fishermen and traders. Even today, dhows continue to play a role in Bahrain's economy, serving as fishing boats, cargo carriers, and even tourist vessels. However, the traditional methods of dhow construction are slowly fading away, threatened by the rise of fiberglass boats and modern shipbuilding techniques. This makes the Dhow Building Yard all the more important as a repository of traditional knowledge and a showcase for Bahrain's cultural heritage.

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