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Bab Al Bahrain: Gateway to Bahrain's Heritage

Explore Bahrain's history at Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic gateway to Manama Souq, a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and tradition.

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Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway to Bahrain,' is a historical landmark in Manama that serves as the entrance to the Manama Souq. Built in 1949, it once housed government offices and stood on the coastline, but land reclamation has since moved it inland. Today, it symbolizes Bahrain's heritage and welcomes visitors to explore the vibrant marketplace.

A brief summary to Bab Al Bahrain

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense summer heat and enjoy exploring the souq comfortably.
  • Bargain respectfully when shopping in the souq; it's part of the culture and can lead to great deals on souvenirs and handicrafts.
  • Try traditional Bahraini sweets and coffee at one of the local cafes for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Dress modestly when visiting, especially if you plan to visit nearby religious sites like the Al Fateh Grand Mosque.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Manama Bus Terminal, Bab Al Bahrain is a short, approximately 5-10 minute walk. Head west towards Government Avenue, and you'll see the iconic archway directly ahead, marking the entrance to the Manama Souq. The area is pedestrian-friendly and well-signposted.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Bab Al Bahrain, including routes 12, 19, A1, X2, and 41. Check the Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Alight at the 'Bab Albahrain' or 'Government Avenue-1/Bab Al Bahrain' stop, both a 1-minute walk from the entrance. A single bus fare is approximately 0.30 BHD, payable to the driver. Purchasing a 'Go Card' for 0.50 BHD allows for cheaper fares (0.25 BHD per journey).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Manama. Simply request a ride to Bab Al Bahrain. The fare from a central location in Manama, such as the Bahrain City Centre Mall, should cost approximately 2-3 BHD, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate towards Government Avenue in central Manama. Several parking lots are available near Bab Al Bahrain, including the Bab Al Bahrain Parking Lot and the Bahrain Financial Harbour Parking Lot. Parking fees typically range from 0.5 to 1 BHD per hour.

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Discover more about Bab Al Bahrain

Bab Al Bahrain, translating to “Gateway of Bahrain,” is more than just a historical building; it's a vibrant symbol of Bahrain's rich heritage and a bustling hub of cultural activity in Manama. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, the British adviser to the Emir, it originally marked the entrance to the city and its vibrant souq. This formidable structure once overlooked the sea, serving as the seat of the government's administrative offices. Over the decades, Bab Al Bahrain has undergone several transformations. The monument was first refurbished in 1986 to incorporate Islamic architectural features, replacing its initial British colonial design. In 2013, a complete renovation restored the building to its former glory, with limited alterations, including the reopening of the road leading to Manama Souq, which passes under the archways, reviving its original purpose as a gateway to the city. Today, the ground floor houses a tourist information office and a handicrafts shop, welcoming visitors and providing insights into the area's history. Extensive land reclamation projects in the latter half of the 20th century have shifted the coastline several kilometers north, leaving Bab Al Bahrain inland. Despite this change, it remains the main entrance to the Manama Souq, a sprawling marketplace that offers a sensory delight with its narrow alleyways filled with spices, textiles, perfumes, and traditional handicrafts. The air hums with the chatter of vendors and shoppers, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of Bahraini culture.

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