Arad Fort, Muharraq Island Travel Guide

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Explore Arad Fort, a 15th-century fortress in Bahrain, showcasing Islamic architecture and a rich history of defending the island.

Arad Fort, a 15th-century Islamic fortress in Bahrain, stands as a testament to the island's strategic importance. Overlooking key sea passages near Muharraq Island, it has served as a defensive stronghold against various invaders, including the Portuguese and Omanis.

A brief summary to Arad Fort

7J2G+XVW, Rd No 4233, Arad, BH
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arad Fort.

Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden light and capture stunning photos of the fort against the sunset.
Check the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities website for information on cultural events and performances held at the fort.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking and climbing stairs to explore the fort.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Muharraq's Artificial Waterfall

Dohat Arad Park

Vertical Garden

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Explore Arad Fort on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Arad Fort, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Manama, take bus route A1 or A2 towards Muharraq. Alight at a stop near Seef Mall Muharraq, which is a short walk from the fort. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.3 BHD. From the bus stop, follow the signs or ask for directions to Arad Fort, which is located behind the mall.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Bahrain International Airport or central Manama, the quickest way to reach Arad Fort is by taxi or ride-sharing service. Simply provide the driver with the destination 'Arad Fort, Arad' or the address 'Rd No 4233, Arad'. The fare from central Manama typically ranges from 3 to 5 BHD, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem also operate in Bahrain.
Driving

If driving from Manama, take the Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Highway towards Muharraq. Continue on Al Fateh Highway and then take a right onto Sheikh Hamad Bridge. Follow the signs leading to Arad Fort. Ample free parking is available near the fort.

Discover more about Arad Fort

Arad Fort, also known as Qal'at 'Arad, is a captivating historical site located on Muharraq Island in Bahrain. Constructed in the late 15th century, this impressive fortress stands as a remarkable example of Islamic military architecture and a silent witness to the island's tumultuous past. Its strategic location near Bahrain International Airport makes it easily accessible and a prominent landmark for visitors arriving in the Kingdom.Originally built during the era when Bahrain was under the rule of the Arabian Gulf's indigenous tribes, its strategic location near the Arabian Gulf made it a crucial defensive stronghold against potential invasions. Over the centuries, it played a pivotal role in the military history of the region, serving as a protective fortress against Portuguese, Persian, and Omani invasions. The fort's architecture reflects a blend of traditional Islamic and Portuguese styles, indicative of the diverse influences that shaped Bahrain's history.In its present location, it overlooks various sea passages of Muharraq's shallow seashores. In the past, there was an inaccessible marine channel which was controlled by the local people to prevent ships from breaking through to the island where the fort is located. The fort is square and on every corner there is a cylindrical tower. It is surrounded by a small trench which used to be filled with water from wells that were drilled especially for this purpose.The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities has undertaken extensive restoration efforts to preserve the fort's authenticity and historical integrity. The fort is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a glimpse into Bahrain's rich heritage. The fort is particularly enchanting at night when it is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance that captivates visitors.