Bahrain is smaller than Greater London, but it is crammed with thrilling events. It has historically been a kingdom of mariners, pearl divers, and merchants, and it still remains loyal to its roots, with a plethora of historical crafts, traditional buildings, and distinctive attractions to discover. The most surprising aspect is that it remains mostly unknown.
1. Go diving for pearls
Bahrain’s economy relied on pearls for nearly two thousand years, long before oil and gas were discovered. Local divers would search the bottom for the best specimens, which were then transported overseas by wealthy merchants. Most of the world’s pearls are now sourced from farms, but Bahrain still allows you to dive for oysters, which you can keep. There are five approved pearl-diving operators in the Kingdom, and the UNESCO-listed Bu Maher Fort houses pearl-themed exhibitions and photos.
2. Get to grips with Gulf history
If you have limited opportunity for just one enticement, visit the Bahrain National Museum. There is a lot to see here, from jewelry and primitive equipment discovered in ancient civilizations to valued pearls and a 1930s Buick given to Bahrain’s first emir. The National Theatre of Bahrain is nearby, and the Bait al Quran museum has a world-class collection of Islamic writings.
3. Tour a traditional neighbourhood
Bahrain’s modern skyline, like those of its Gulf neighbors, is dominated by high-rise structures and unusual architecture, with the triangular-shaped World Trade Center serving as Manama’s eye-catching focal point. However, the country preserves ancient architecture and has conserved the lovely houses of Muharraq, its former capital. The antique pearl merchants’ homes and courtyard villas have hand-carved wooden doors, coral ornamentation, and mashrabiya (patterned screens). Explore Sheikh Isa bin Ali House, a former royal house, and Kurar House, known for its stunning embroidered fabrics.
4. Ask all your burning questions
For inquiring minds, Manama’s Ahmad Al-Fateh Grand Mosque is a must-see, with courteous and knowledgeable guides who welcome questions about Islam, faith, and Bahraini culture. Visitors of all faiths and none are welcome to explore with the help of a guide.
5. Get hands-on with Bahraini heritage
Bahrain boasts a rich tapestry of historical crafts, including ceramics, embroidery, wood carving, and calligraphy, that are preserved by numerous cultural institutions. Local artisans demonstrate everything from basket weaving to woodworking at Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre, and visitors can take expert-led lessons in Bahraini embroidery, jewelry-making, mosaics, and other crafts. Even the center itself is a treasure, constructed from traditional coral stones and palm fronds. The Craft Industries Development Centre in Manama is full with artisan workshops where you may buy things straight from the makers.
6. Go back in time
Qalat al Bahrain, one of the Gulf’s most important archeological regions, has been inhabited since around 2300 BC and is the country’s oldest UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a 16th-century Portuguese stronghold, which has been painstakingly renovated in recent years and stands guard along the north coast. Walking beneath the stone archways is undoubtedly spine-tingling, but the surrounding region is possibly even more impressive: antiquities dating back 4,500 years have been uncovered here, with many on show at the nearby museum. The stronghold also holds concerts and cultural events throughout the year.
7. Explore the Middle East’s art scene
Bahrain, in addition to its love of heritage crafts, has an insatiable taste for modern art, often hosting exhibitions by the Middle East’s leading painters, designers, and sculptors. Don’t miss Albareh Art Gallery, Bahrain Arts Society, and Bait Al Salmaniya, which also hosts art workshops and live music nights. In Manama, Jehan Saleh Printmaking Studio hosts exhibitions by Bahraini artists as well as printmaking courses for all skill levels, whereas La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art combines a gallery, restaurant, and spa in a 150-year-old family mansion.
8. Haggle for treasures in Manama Souq
Bahrain has lots of malls, but shopping at Manama Souq is even more exciting, with its varied stalls, dynamic vendors, and maze of narrow backstreets. Follow your nose to discover Iranian saffron, Indian chai, and Arabic incense, or bargain hard for hand-woven rugs and colorful kaftans. On Saturdays, the neighboring Bab al Bahrain offers a market with live local music and crafts shops.
9. Go behind the curtain of the Grand Prix
Even if you’re not a Formula One enthusiast, you can’t help but be wowed by Bahrain International Circuit, the US$150 million home of the country’s Grand Prix. Racing is in the blood of Bahrainis, and a behind-the-scenes tour reveals the massive scope and pace of the country’s favorite tournament: you’ll see the race control tower, examine the cutting-edge media gallery, and even walk out on the track. Meanwhile, experience days place you behind the wheel (or in the passenger seat) of a Radical SR3, following in the footsteps of Schumacher, Hamilton, and other racing icons.
10. Kayak the Amwaj Islands
The Amwaj Islands are not your normal island; they were created in the 2000s and are completely man-made, giving the country much-needed space for constructing fresh hotels, houses, and businesses. The islands have been integrated into Bahrain’s infrastructure and are well connected to the mainland (about a 15-minute drive from central Manama), but Bahraini watersports company Scuba Life adds an adventurous twist to the neighborhood by offering kayaking trips between the islands to see their beaches and architecture from a completely different perspective. It also provides paddleboarding and sailing tours throughout the area.
