The Serene Oasis of Saar

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Na'am]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك / على الرحب والسعة
  [Min fadlik / Ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'zra]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhair. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [Arid ru'ya al-qa'ima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [Ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Arid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [An-najda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [Ithhab ba'idan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bil-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [Lakad dalalt at-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [Awd an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [Ana faqat atfari]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [Kam huwa thamanuhu?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk takhfid as-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam as-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [As-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [Al-'ashirah wan-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [As-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [Adh-dhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaneya]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [Ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [Ayna huwa/hiya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al-ainwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-khartah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [Mata yaati al-hafilah at-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [Tathkirah (ila...)]

Saar is believed to have been a significant settlement of the ancient Dilmun civilization, which prospered around 3000 BCE. Archaeological finds include residential houses, pottery, and burial mounds, indicating a thriving community engaged in trade and maritime activities. Dilmun was a major trading hub that connected Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, making Saar a pivotal site in the region's early history.

In the early 1970s, archaeologists uncovered the Saar Settlement and Necropolis, providing invaluable insights into the lifestyles of the ancient inhabitants. The settlement includes well-preserved houses arranged along a network of streets, while the necropolis reveals intricate burial practices. These discoveries have significantly contributed to our understanding of the social and cultural fabric of the Dilmun civilization.

The Saar Temple, dating back to the early second millennium BCE, is one of the most remarkable findings in the area. This temple complex, dedicated to an unknown deity, features a central courtyard and multiple chambers. The presence of various artifacts, such as seals and pottery, suggests that the temple was an important religious and possibly administrative center.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century CE, Saar, like the rest of Bahrain, embraced the new religion. The area saw the construction of mosques and the integration of Islamic culture. In recent times, Saar has developed into a modern residential area while preserving its historical significance. The juxtaposition of ancient ruins and contemporary life makes Saar a unique destination for history enthusiasts and travelers.

Saar is located in the northern region of Bahrain, approximately 15 kilometers from Manama, the capital city. The nearest major airport is Bahrain International Airport (BAH), which is about a 20-minute drive from Saar. Visitors can take a taxi from the airport to Saar, or use ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Saar is a relatively small area, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are popular and reliable. Public buses operated by the Bahrain Public Transportation Company also serve Saar, with routes connecting to other parts of Bahrain. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

The official currency in Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Saar. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Saar, and most accept international cards. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major shopping centers.

Saar is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Saar, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Saar has local police stations and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The Bahrain Defense Force Hospital in Riffa and the American Mission Hospital in Manama are nearby for more serious medical needs.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Saar like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Bahraini goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the ancient burial mounds and the Saar Archaeological Site for a glimpse into Bahrain’s past. For a unique dining experience, try local Bahraini cuisine at traditional restaurants.