With its rich history, vibrant culture, world-class attractions, and flourishing hospitality sector, the Kingdom of Bahrain attracts scores of tourists annually. Situated in the heart of the Gulf, the multicultural destination provides its visitors the opportunity to select from an array of activities.
From luxurious five-star properties to boutique, budget, and resort hotels, the Kingdom offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes. With a focus on family tourism a variety of serviced apartments are also reachable where extended families visiting or even locally can enjoy an array of facilities and amenities.
Hotels are spread across the island in all governorates. Some are attached to malls, offering a more comfortable and convenient shopping experience.
Bahrain’s hotels are becoming increasingly popular among citizens and residents, who are turning to staycations to avoid traveling. Several hotels offer access to spas and beaches, making them ideal destinations for a short and relaxing break.
To find out more about the Kingdom’s hotels and resorts, download the ‘Bahrain Tour Guide’ app (Available for iOS devices ).
There are numerous ways one can get around in the Kingdom of Bahrain including, cars, taxis, and public transportation.
Cars are one of the most usual form of transportation in Bahrain. Vehicles can also be rented from various licensed car rental companies.
Taxis can be found anywhere in Bahrain, they are plentiful and can be hailed up from the malls, most visitor attractions, and even from the street as you walk by. There are also companies that offer taxis upon request.
Public transportation in Bahrain is provided by Bahrain Public Transport Company (BUS). The bus routes cover most areas in Bahrain, linking all governorates together. You can view the Public Bus Schedule and Route Information.
Experience the Kingdom’s lively and rich culture with the Free City Tour taking you on an exciting journey during your layover at the Bahrain International Airport. The tour encompasses a wide range of offerings, including entertainment options, heritage sites, and major tourist attractions.
To book a tour, visit the Hello Bahrain Free City Tour page and register online.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience Bahrain's unique culture and attractions! Book your tour today.
The Kingdom of Bahrain has different attractions catering to different interest. It is home to three UNESCO heritage sites, an exciting array of leisure and entertainment hotspots, an eclectic mix of culinary offerings, a broad selection of traditional and modern shopping destinations, and an abundance of natural beauty.
Bahrain’s historical and archaeological sites stand as a reminder of the many civilizations that have called the Kingdom home. From ancient forts to burial mounds, these well-preserved monuments tell the fascinating story of Bahrain’s past.
The Kingdom’s first museum, the Bahrain National Museum, is a must-visit destination. Inaugurated in 1988, it houses a range of historical artifacts, manuscripts, traditional crafts, and other items that spotlight the history of Bahrain.
Other museums found on historical sites include the Bahrain Fort and Museum in Karbabad and the Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fateh Museum at Arad Fort, which showcases the history of the ruling Al Khalifa family.
In 2019, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee added Bahrain’s Dilmun Burial Mounds to the World Heritage List. The decision was made during the 43rd session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, held in the capital of Azerbaijan. The Dilmun Burial Mounds are the third world heritage site in Bahrain after Ancient Qal’at al-Bahrain, Harbor City and Capital of Dilmun (2005) and the Offshore Pearling Path in Muharraq (2012). Other archaeological and historical sites in the Kingdom can be found by visiting the following link.
Preserving its natural protected ecosystem, and a home to multiple species of wildlife, Tubli Bay; an escape to another world. Tubli Bay features a unique, beautiful and a well-protected green mangrove forest as well as a great view of Bahrain’s Skyline where you can experience a one of a kind eco-tour to explore Bahrain’s natural mangrove forest.
Handicrafts are an important means of preserving a country’s heritage and culture, as well as traditional skills that may otherwise be lost to time. The Kingdom has a rich history of using local materials to create practical and artisanal products, many of which remain popular today.
Locally made handicrafts play a key role in the Kingdom’s tourism industry, serving as cultural souvenirs. More than just selling these items in tourist areas, Bahrain gives visitors the chance to see the skill that goes into making traditional products.
Despite Bahrain’s limited area, each village or town on the island is known for a particular craft such as the textile industry in Bani Jamrah, basket weaving in Karbabad, pottery in Aali and AlSaffah, wickerwork in AlJassrah. Meanwhile, the cities of Manama and Muharraq are famous for dhows and related tools.
For more information, please visit the following link.
The Kingdom of Bahrain is home to an eclectic array of restaurants and cafes that cater to all tastes and budgets. From local cuisine to international favourites and fine dining, the fare on offer is as culturally diverse as Bahrain’s population. Whether you wish to sample exciting new flavours and Bahraini delicacies or stick to what you know, there is something for everyone.
From historical sites and natural marvels to modern malls and contemporary architecture, the Kingdom of Bahrain offers visitors plenty of ways to enjoy their stay.
Standing at the entrance of the Manama Souq is Bab Al Bahrain, a stunning structure that embodies the identity of a traditional Bahraini market. Built in 1949, the formidable building which used to overlook the sea, was the seat of the government’s administrative offices. Now, it houses tourism offices and a visitor’s center to teach visitors about the history of the area. Bab Al-Bahrain also includes its own mall, various eateries, and a market with more than 30 shops offering patrons a wide variety of goods, from Arabic perfumes and Bahraini sweets to local handicrafts and traditional antiques.
Through the passageway of Bab Al Bahrain, you reach the Manama Souq. This local market houses a myriad of stalls offering textiles, traditional clothing, spices, incense, perfumes, handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs. However, the real reason to visit is to wander through the bustling streets of a market that still evokes the atmosphere of an ancient Souq. This is a must-visit destination that tourists will definitely enjoy.
The Tree of Life has grown in the heart of Bahrain’s desert for over 400 years. It stands alone on top of a 25-foot-high sandy hill at the highest point in Bahrain with no apparent source of water.
Al-Fateh Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, can accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers at a time. It was built as a grand statement in honour of the founder of modern Bahrain, Shaikh Ahmed Bin Muhammad Bin Khalifa, who was known as 'Al Fateh'.
Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al-Fateh Fort, commonly known as Riffa Fort due to its location in Riffa, is a historic landmark that stands as a testament to one of the most important periods in Bahrain’s history. Within its beautiful architecture lives the memory of the ruling family of Bahrain, the Al Khalifas. The fort also houses the Saffron Café, which overlooks the picturesque Al-Haniniya Valley.
Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve was established to help conserve wildlife in the Middle East. Enjoy the sight of different animals, birds, and desert plants in their natural environment. Visitors can take a bus tour around the reserve to learn more about different kinds of endangered animals such as Arabian Leopards, Ostriches, Arabian Gazelles, and Oryx, among others.
The Bahrain World Trade Center BWTC is a world-class business address, home to some of the most exclusive regional and global organizations. It is the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into its design, which incorporates sleek aesthetics with architectural ingenuity.
The adjoining luxury MODA Mall and five-star Sheraton Bahrain Hotel ensure a perfect blend of lifestyle and business in one strikingly beautiful location.
Dive Bahrain, the world’s largest underwater theme park, spanning an area of 100,000 square meters and complete with a sunken Boeing 747, is now open to divers. The site, near Bahrain International Airport, has a 70 meter-long decommissioned Boeing 747 as its centerpiece, the largest aircraft ever to be intentionally submerged. It also features a replica of a traditional Bahraini pearl merchant’s house, artificial coral reefs and other sculptures to ensure a sustainable habitat for marine life.
Motorsports has been a major focus for the Kingdom of Bahrain since it made history in 2004, becoming the first country in the Middle East to host the Formula One Grand Prix. In the lead up to this milestone event, the Kingdom constructed the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).
“The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East” is an ultramodern motorsport facility located in the heart of the Sakhir desert and is best known for hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The eagerly-anticipated race is held in Bahrain annually, and will continue to be until 2036 as per the contract with Formula 1. Throughout the year, the BIC entertains many other motorsport events including local, regional, international racing series, including the World Endurance Championship, the BIC 2000CC Challenge, and the Bahrain Drag Racing Championship as well as, Go-Karting, corporate events, conferences, and other track activities. The pandemic did not halt BIC’s activities, with the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2021 taking place, followed by the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2022 from 18 – 20 March. To ensure the safety of participants and fans, the event will be held in compliance with the guidelines of the National Task Force for Combating the Coronavirus and Government health advice. For more information on ticketing, events, and the latest updates please visit https://www.bahraingp.com/.
Bahrain has an impressive selection of public and private beaches that are ideal for soaking up the sun, enjoying an exciting range of watersports activities, or a quiet picnic with family and friends.
Public beaches are easily accessible and there are often nearby food trucks and ice cream vans where you can grab a refreshing snack. However, please be mindful of the local culture and refrain from wearing revealing swimwear.
You can wear regular swimwear at private beaches, resorts, and pools. These locations are spread across the island and many are attached to leading hotels, offering access to a wider rang of amenities.
Alongside its many traditional souqs, the Kingdom has an extensive selection of modern shopping malls where you can find everything you want and need. From leading international fashion brands to electronics, jewelry, supermarkets, cinemas, and restaurants, there is something for everyone.
For more details on shopping destinations in Bahrain, visit the following page.
Bahrain offers a range of fun activities for different age groups, families, or friends to enjoy. There are also several festivals, shows, and performances held throughout the year. Please visit Bahrain Calendar for more information.
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Content Last Updated: 17 Jul, 2023
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