Things To Do
in Manama
Nestled on the northeastern coast of the Persian Gulf, this bustling capital city serves as the financial hub and cultural heart of Bahrain, boasting a rich history that spans over 4,000 years. Its modern skyline is punctuated by ancient sites, including the iconic Bahrain Fort and the Bahrain National Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Dilmun civilization.
Despite its modern advancements, Manama retains a welcoming atmosphere, offering a blend of traditional markets, such as the Manama Souq, alongside high-end shopping and dining experiences, making it a vibrant city that bridges past and future.
- "Marhaban" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
- "Insha'Allah" - God willing
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Bahrain National Museum to learn about the country's rich history. Enjoy the surrounding gardens for a peaceful stroll.
Head to the Souq Manama for traditional Bahraini handicrafts and snacks. Don't miss trying the famous Bahraini halwa.
Relax at the waterfront in the Corniche area. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with fresh seafood.
Start your day at the iconic Bahrain World Trade Center. Take in stunning views from its sky bridge.
Explore the Bahrain Financial Harbour for shopping and dining options. Visit the nearby art galleries for contemporary exhibits.
Enjoy a sunset boat cruise along the bay. Savor dinner at a restaurant with a view of the skyline.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location in the Gulf region, making it a hub for commerce and travel.
- Modern infrastructure and amenities, with a developing economy.
- Cultural diversity, featuring a mix of traditions and communities.
- No personal income tax, enhancing financial attractiveness for expatriates.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with various museums and historical sites.
- Hot and humid climate, especially during summer months.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living in certain areas, particularly in housing.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Relatively small size of the island can lead to a sense of isolation for some residents.
Best Activities in Manama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely walk or picnic along the scenic Manama Corniche with beautiful views of the sea and city skyline.
Explore the underwater world with scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Bahrain, with various dive sites to choose from.
Experience the thrill of driving through the desert dunes and enjoying activities such as camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional Bedouin-style camping.
Tours
Uncover the best of Manama with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Manama
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical building and waterfront area with great views of the city.
Iconic twin towers offering panoramic views of the city and waterfront.
Ancient fort with scenic views of the surrounding area and coastline.
Modern shopping mall with a rooftop terrace providing great city views.
Food in Manama
Manama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Also known as Kabsa, this is Bahrain's national dish, featuring seasoned rice with tender meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish), onions, and a blend of spices like cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon. It's often served with a side of spicy tomato sauce known as 'dakous'. You can try authentic Machboos at Al Abraaj and Saffron by Jena Bakery.
Must-Try!
Harees is a nourishing dish made with coarsely ground wheat and meat, cooked until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. It’s commonly enjoyed during Ramadan. You can savor delicious Harees at Bahraini heritage restaurants like Al Hekaya and Bahayya.
These delicate, date-filled cookies are a popular sweet treat in Bahrain. They’re often prepared during festive occasions such as Eid and weddings. Visit local bakeries like Furn Bistro and Awal Cafe for freshly baked Ma'amoul.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Manama better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling marketplace offers a delightful array of street food stalls, where you can sample traditional Bahraini snacks such as Samboosa (spiced meat or vegetable-filled pastries), Balaleet (sweet and savory vermicelli), and Khubz (flatbread).
Explore the narrow alleyways of Manama Souq to discover local street vendors selling freshly-prepared Shawarma, a popular Middle Eastern wrap filled with succulent grilled meat, vegetables, and tahini sauce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Manama, it is important to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or public places. Both men and women should ensure their clothing covers their shoulders and knees, and women may also want to cover their hair.
During the holy month of Ramadan, it is important to respect the local customs by avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. It is also polite to greet people with 'Ramadan Kareem' and refrain from playing loud music during this time.
Bahrain is a diverse society, and it is important to respect and be open to different cultural traditions and practices. Be mindful of local customs, such as the importance of family and community, and be courteous and respectful when interacting with people from different backgrounds.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Manama with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Manama
Ensure a smooth experience
In Manama, Bahrain, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and hotels. A 10% service charge is typically included in the bill at restaurants, but additional tipping for exceptional service is welcomed. It's customary to round up taxi fares or add a small tip for good service.
Cash is widely accepted in Manama, and many businesses prefer cash transactions. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawal, and it's advisable to carry both cash and cards for flexibility in payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Manama.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. Perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Mild and comfortable weather, great for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor events and festivals.
Hot and humid weather with temperatures averaging around 37°C. It's less crowded, and indoor activities and water sports are popular.
Warm weather with occasional rainfall. Ideal for beach activities and cultural experiences, with fewer tourists.
Manama at Night
Hiking in Manama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking site featuring scenic views and natural landscapes, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a moderate trek.
A family-friendly park with additional trails for light hiking and jogging, nestled around beautiful gardens and palm trees.
Historical site with adjacent walking trails, offering a mix of culture and nature as you hike around the fortifications.
The highest point in Bahrain, presenting challenging hiking opportunities with stunning views of the island.
While primarily a wildlife park, it offers scenic walking paths amidst various local species and natural surroundings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Manama through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Manama by plane.
The main airport serving Manama and the primary international gateway to Bahrain.
Located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, this is one of the closest major international airports to Manama.
The largest airport in Saudi Arabia, located in Dammam. It's a significant hub for international flights.
Located in Doha, Qatar, this major international airport is a key transit point for international flights and is relatively close to Manama.
Located in Abu Dhabi, UAE, this airport serves as a major hub for international flights and is within reasonable flying distance.
One of the busiest international airports in the world, located in Dubai, UAE, and is a significant global transit hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Manama, comprising various nationalities, with a significant presence of South Asians, Arabs, and Western expatriates.
Includes the local population of Bahrain, making up a smaller percentage compared to expatriates but playing a crucial role in the cultural and social fabric of the city.
A notable portion of the population consists of people from other Arab countries, including those from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.
Includes expatriates from Western countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, often working in various professional sectors.
Comprising expatriates primarily from countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam, involved mainly in service sectors.
The Soul of Manama
Discover the essence of Manama through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bahrain, with a strong following and a national league that features various clubs. The Bahrain national football team competes in international tournaments.
Basketball enjoys a significant popularity in Bahrain, with many local teams and a strong youth program. The Bahrain national basketball team participates in international competitions.
Motorsport, particularly Formula One, has gained immense popularity in Bahrain due to the Bahrain International Circuit, which hosts the Bahrain Grand Prix, attracting fans from around the world.
Handball is widely played at both amateur and professional levels in Bahrain. The national handball team has achieved regional success and actively participates in international events.
Volleyball is a favored sport in Bahrain, with both beach and indoor volleyball being played at competitive levels. The country hosts various tournaments and has a vibrant volleyball community.
Athletics is a popular sport in Bahrain, especially with the country's emphasis on long-distance running. Bahrain has produced several elite athletes who compete internationally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bahraini cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Manama offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for places like Lanterns, with its diverse vegan menu, or Reyhana, known for its vegetarian-friendly Bahraini specialties.
For individuals with gluten sensitivities, eateries such as Hala and Good Food No. 1 provide gluten-free options like Grilled Seafood Platters and Quinoa Salads.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Manama with these cultural adventures.
