· BH

Manama

Manama, Al 'Asimah, Bahrain

Manama: Where Modernity Meets Tradition in the Heart of the Gulf Manama, the vibrant capital of Bahrain, is an island city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern marvels. Situated on the shimmering Persian Gu…

#Capital city#Cultural hub#Business district#Modern architecture#Historic sites

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Manama.

Top Hotels in Manama

Top Flights to Manama

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Manama.

Tours

Explore the Bahrain National Museum

Discover Bahrain's rich history and cultural heritage at the Bahrain National Museum.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Visit one of the largest mosques in the world, showcasing beautiful Islamic architecture.

Beit Al Quran

A museum and center dedicated to Islamic heritage and Quranic studies.

Qal'at al-Bahrain

Explore the archaeological site of Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Shopping

Shop at Moda Mall

Luxury shopping experience with a range of international designer boutiques.

Manama Souq

Traditional street market perfect for authentic Bahraini goods.

Outdoor

Bahrain Bay Walk

A scenic walk along Bahrain Bay with views of the city skyline.

Dolphin Watching Tour

Enjoy a boating experience to spot playful dolphins in the waters around Bahrain.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Manama.

Currency
.BD | BHD | Bahraini Dinar
Population
Not Available
Languages
Arabic, English, Urdu, Persian
Average weather
Manama
Jan
clear
20°14°
Feb
clear
21°15°
Mar
clear
24°18°
Apr
sun
29°22°
May
hot
34°26°
Jun
hot
37°29°
Jul
hot
39°31°
Aug
hot
39°31°
Sep
hot
37°29°
Oct
sun
33°25°
Nov
clear
27°21°
Dec
clear
22°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Manama.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, located in the Al ‘Āşimah governorate. Here are some detailed reasons why Manama is a great travel destination:

  1. Cultural Experience: Manama is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore traditional markets like the Bab al-Bahrain Souq, visit historical sites such as the Bahrain National Museum, and experience local traditions and customs.

  2. Modern Infrastructure: Manama is a modern city with excellent infrastructure, including luxury hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment facilities. Visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay with access to all necessary amenities.

  3. Cuisine: Bahraini cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors influenced by Indian, Persian, and Arabic culinary traditions. In Manama, visitors can indulge in delicious local dishes such as machboos (spiced rice with meat) and muhammar (sweet rice).

  4. Shopping: Manama is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of shopping options, from traditional souks selling spices and textiles to modern malls offering international brands. The Gold Souq is a popular destination for jewelry shopping.

  5. Architecture: The cityscape of Manama is a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional architecture. Visitors can admire iconic landmarks like the Bahrain World Trade Center and the Bahrain Financial Harbour, as well as historic buildings like the Al-Fatih Mosque.

  6. Outdoor Activities: Manama offers various outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, such as water sports, desert safaris, and boat trips. The city's coastal location also provides opportunities for beach relaxation and water-based adventures.

Overall, Manama offers a unique blend of culture, history, modernity, and natural beauty, making it a compelling travel destination for tourists seeking a diverse and enriching experience.

Enjoy your trip to Manama!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Manama, Bahrain, include:

  1. Extreme temperatures: Manama experiences hot and humid weather for most of the year, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the summer months. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and challenging.

  2. High cost of living: Bahrain, including Manama, is known to have a relatively high cost of living compared to other countries in the region. Accommodation, dining out, and transportation can be expensive for travelers on a budget.

  3. Limited public transportation: While Manama does have a bus system and taxis available, the public transportation options may not be as extensive or efficient as in some other cities. Renting a car may be necessary for convenient travel around the city and beyond.

  4. Cultural norms: Bahrain is a conservative Muslim country, and visitors should be mindful of local customs and dress modestly to respect the local culture. Alcohol consumption is also restricted in Bahrain, with limited availability in licensed venues.

  5. Traffic congestion: Manama can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, which can make getting around the city a slow and frustrating experience.

  6. Political unrest: While Bahrain is generally considered safe for tourists, there have been occasional political protests and demonstrations in the past. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation and avoid any areas where protests are taking place.

It's essential to research and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in Manama, Bahrain.

Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, is located in the Al 'Asimah (Capital) Governorate. Its history is rich and reflects the broader historical narrative of the island nation of Bahrain.

Early History

  • Dilmun Civilization: Manama's history can be traced back to the Dilmun civilization, which flourished around 3000 BCE. Bahrain was a significant trading hub between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley.

Islamic Era

  • 7th Century: Islam arrived in Bahrain, and Manama became part of the Islamic world. The region was visited by the Prophet Muhammad’s envoy, Al Ala’a Al-Hadrami, who helped spread Islam.

Portuguese and Persian Influence

  • 16th Century: The Portuguese occupied Bahrain in 1521, including Manama, as part of their strategy to control the maritime trade routes in the Persian Gulf.
  • Persian Rule: In 1602, the Safavid Persians expelled the Portuguese, and Bahrain, including Manama, came under Persian rule.

The Al Khalifa Dynasty

  • 18th Century: The Al Khalifa family, originally from the Arabian Peninsula, took control of Bahrain in 1783. This marked the beginning of the Al Khalifa dynasty, which continues to rule Bahrain today.

British Protectorate Period

  • 19th to Early 20th Century: Manama was under British protection, starting from treaties in the 19th century, which were part of a broader British strategy to secure trade routes and maintain stability in the region.
  • Rise as a Trade Hub: During this period, Manama developed as a major pearling and trade hub, attracting traders from various regions.

Modern Developments

  • Discovery of Oil: In 1932, oil was discovered in Bahrain, transforming the economy and leading to modern infrastructure developments in Manama.

Post-Independence

  • 1971 Independence: Bahrain gained independence from British protection in 1971. Manama was established as the capital city.
  • Economic Diversification: The city became a financial center in the Gulf region, with banking and tourism becoming major sectors.

Notable Landmarks

  • Bahrain National Museum: Opened in 1988, it showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Bahrain.
  • Al-Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, it was completed in 1988 and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.
  • Bab Al Bahrain: Constructed in 1949, it marks the gateway to the Manama Souq and symbolizes the city’s historical trade importance.
  • Bahrain World Trade Center: Completed in 2008, it features wind turbines integrated into its design and highlights Bahrain’s modern architectural advancements.

Contemporary Era

  • Arab Spring Protests: In 2011, Manama was the focal point for protests during the Arab Spring. The government responded with various reforms and economic initiatives.

Manama continues to be a vibrant city blending historical richness with modern developments, serving as Bahrain's political, economic, and cultural heart.