Manama

Modern Manama - The Manama city skyline

Manama (Arabic: المنامة, transliteration: al-Manāma) is the capital and largest city of Bahrain with an approximate population of 157,000 people, roughly a quarter of the nation's population.

Manama Halal Explorer

Manama emerged as the capital of independent Bahrain after periods of domination by Portugal and Persians. Today, it is a modern capital with an economy based on the sales promotion industry as crude oil takes a less pronounced role in the economy.

Travel to Manama

All roads in Bahrain lead to Manama, so see the main Bahrain

Travel Guide for details.

How to get around in Manama

Best way to travel in Manama by a Taxi

Taxis are expensive, yet they are the only way to get around without renting a car. Extra charges are added to fares starting from the airport (Bahrain#Money|BD 2) and any hotel (BD 1). Always use the meter or you will, guaranteed, get ripped off. A ride to the central parts of city will cost around BD 5-6.

By car

Renting a vehicle is far less costly, but beware of driving styles you might not be used to in your home country. Manama is a small city on a small Island, you won't get lost for very long. Make sure to buy a map: it should cost BD 0.50-1.00.

What to see in Manama

Bahrain Fort 3 - Archways of Bahrain Fort

• Bab Al Bahrain The Gateway of Bahrain, located in the Customs Plaza in Central Manama. The ground floor houses the tourist information office and a handicraft shop. Sightseeing bus / tours depart from here daily at 9:30AM and 3:30PM.

• Manama Souq The souq is network of small lanes that houses small stores selling everything from souvenirs and gifts to electronic products. The souq is also home to many Gold and jewelry shops and tailors.

• Al Fateh Grand Mosque One of the largest masjids in the world, capable of accommodating over 7,000 worshippers at a time and is the largest place of worship in Bahrain. It is also one of the top tourist attractions in Bahrain. The dome is the world's largest fibreglass dome and weighs over 60,000 kg. Al-Fateh includes the National Library which opened to the public in 2006. Tours are available in English and you are allowed to take pictures.

• Corniche al-Fateh | On the east coast of the city, this pleasant seaside promenade offers good views of the skyscrapers to the south and planes taking off from the airport nearby. Plenty of fun fair rides for the kids and shisha bars for the older set.

• Museum of Pearl Diving | Considered to be the most important historic building in Bahrain, it is the first official center for Bahrain Courts. The building was inaugurated by H.H. Sh. Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa and the past Governor of Bahrain in 1937. At that time the building comprised of four Supreme Courts, and three Directorates. In 1984 the building was transformed into a Traditional Heritage Center. The Museum of Pearl Diving is under the control of Directorate of Archaeology and Heritage, one of the major Directorates of Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and Information.

• Bahrain National Museum - Natural and cultural history of Bahrain.

• Tree of Life | Famous lonesome tree in the middle of a dry desert. Scientists haven't figured out how it survives, since no underground aquifer or spring exists under that area. In fact, all underground water sources are around the tree are contaminated with salt, suggesting the tree may in fact possess a mutation rendering it salt-tolerant.

• Bahrain Fort Bahrain Fort, on the island’s north coast, was built in the 14th century but excavations have revealed it was built on the site of Dilmun settlements, dating back to 3,000 BC. Recently renovated, and with new lighting at night and the Fort is an outstanding example of Bahrain’s varied and ancient history. Bahrain Fort, known in Arabic as Qalat Al Bahrain, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

• Bahrain Fort Museum - The first building comprises an exhibition hall and a child learning and training room whereas the second is made up of a conference hall, a cafe overlooking the sea, offices, a technicians suite and a dormitory for archeologists.

• Bin Matar House: Place of Memory | The Bin Matar House is the latest in a series of projects by the Shaikh Ebrahim Center focusing on the restoration of traditional Bahraini houses associated with historic Bahraini families and leading cultural personalities. The house was designed by the well-known Bahraini architect Mussa Bin Hamad and built in 1905. It was used by Salman bin Hussein Matar as the venue for his permanent "majlis" (a room similar to a salon, used to entertain family and guests). By the 1940s, it was used a clinic by the famous physician Dr. Bandar Kab, and from the 1950s to the 1980s was used as the centre for the Eslah Club. The building then lay empty and in uninhabited, ready to be demolished to make way for a new construction. Today and the ceilings of the house are made of a combination of palm leaf and wood beam and the walls and floors have been authentically retouched.

• Barbar Temple | This is an archaeological site located in the village of Barbar. Three temples have been discovered there and the oldest dating back to 3000 BC. The temples were thought to have been constructed to worship gods, as it contains two altars and a natural water spring. During its excavation tools, weapons, pottery, and many small pieces of Gold were discovered.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Manama

Manama is a getaway for Arabs and expats residing in Arab countries where alcohol is banned. Tourists, particularly Saudis and residents of Saudi Arabia, come to Bahrain mainly for the nightlife.

• Dolphin Watching | Take a boat trip and you can watch the dolphins and manatees playing in the warm Gulf waters, and see local fisherman head out in traditional wooden dhows to catch the prized local hammour - a type of grouper. Dolphin watch trips take place three times daily.

• Scuba Diving

• Horse riding | For anyone wanting riding lessons or an occasional hack and the Twin Palms Riding School and the Dilmun Club are good places to start.

• Horse racing | Arabia is famous for its horses. The national racecourse at Al Sakhir hosts races every Friday from October to March. The grandstand holds up to 3,000 spectators and entry is free. Betting is not allowed.

• Pearl Diving | Bahrain is also famous for its pearls. Try your hand at pearl diving and maybe take home one of these natural gems of the sea.

• Bird Watching | The Kingdom and the Hawar Islands are a haven for native and migratory birds including flamingos, bulbuls, ospreys and sooty falcons. Any twitchers are strongly advised to take the 20 kilometers boat trip to the islands.

• Ice Skating The only ring in town is located at the Fun-land centre along the Marina corniche.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Manama

Manama Souq, should not be missed by any visitor

Shopping malls

• Al A'Ali Mall | A'ali Mall has the look and feel of a traditional open air souk within its air-conditioned confines. A glass roof, stores with old-fashioned Arabic wooden doors and carts selling souvenirs all add to the atmosphere. Outlets include top designer stores.

• Downtown Bahrain - Bahrain Downtown is the first and biggest mixed-use development in Bahrain offering the shopping, leisure and entertainment experience to its clients under one roof. Bahrain Downtown has 150 of its over 350 internationally reputed brands making their debut in the nation. The centre includes the region’s first indoor/outdoor temperature-controlled 15,000-m² Wahooo! Waterpark, Bahrain’s biggest cinema complex Cineco 20, and a family entertainment centre for children and young adults, Magic Planet. Over 50 food court outlets offer choices from all over the world.

• The Bahrain Mall - The Bahrain Mall is situated in the heart of Bahrain's new retail neighborhood. It is easily accessible from the main highway and all parts of the city. It covers an area of 750,000 square feet and has more than 120 international brands and specialty stores.

• Dana Mall

• Moda Mall - Moda Mall is an ultra-exclusive shopping complex located on the ground floor of the landmark Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC). The mall is home to some 160 exclusive brand name boutiques, including lots of famous international ones.

• Seef Mall - Magic Island and the largest indoor amusement park in the Middle East and is located on the first floor.

• Yateem Centre - To get to Yateem Centre, approach the Suq from Government Avenue, under Zamil Tower and follow the road in. Air Arabia on the junction announces that you have arrived at the Yateem Centre. ☎ +973 1721 5615 +973 1721 2969
• Murjan Shopping Center Many stores in a large supermarket.

• Juffair Mall Mall in the centre of the Juffair residential area, has the regular shops as well as some Halal restaurants, an atm and a taxi stand.

Halal Food & Restaurants

Restaurants in Manama run the gamut from affordable shawarma joints to 5-star restaurants.

Cheap restaurants abound in the Adliya neighborhood.

• Al-Abraaj, Adliya St, Manama, Bahrain. Perfect introduction for non-Arab folks to become accustomed to the Middle Eastern hospitality charm. Food is generous and tasty, and primarily from Lebanese/Turkish and Persian cuisines. Good value at BD 2-4 per head.
• Al-Siraj. The second-best shwarma in Bahrain for only 300 fils.

• Habara Snacks & Fish Osama bin Zaid Ave, Adliya. Great diner that cheerfully serves affordable fish and chips and other assorted Snacks.

• Café Lilou's | Paris style interiors, popular with ex-pats and local residents. Excellent French-café fare, including large salads and delicious cakes. Caters for groups, take out, cateringservices, outdoor seating. Breakfast,lunch, dinner, Coffee, soft drinks
• Lanterns, ☎ +973 17 59 0591, +973 17 591807. An atmospheric Indian restaurant with great food and lovely decor next to Burgerland Roundabout in Budaiya.

• Senor Pacos Um Al Hassam, Manama, Bahrain. An atmospheric Mexican restaurant with great ambience and lovely decor on the Road opposite KFC in Um al Hassam. They have their own guitarist and vocalist singing on most evenings.

• Trader Vic's, a Polynesian dining experience, located on the grounds of the Ritz Carlton.
• Zahle, Gulf Hotel, Al Juffair Street. ☎ +973 17 746 417, +973 17 746 418. Serving impeccable Lebanese Halal Food with daily buffets and live entertainment.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Manama

Manama - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Manama, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Manama. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Manama and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Manama. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Manama. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inManama: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Manama.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Manama: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Manama, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Manama.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Manama, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Manama, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Manama and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Manama, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Manama, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Manama without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Manama is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Manama.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Manama is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Manama, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Manama Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• Al Burge Hotel | If cost is more important than comfort for you and then the BD 10 double room with bathroom should make you happy. Do not expect fancy stuff such as quietness or toilet paper, but it is fairly clean and fairly well located, in the street behind Gold City. Do try the bed before taking the room.

• Awal Hotel | Located in the main commercial & business neighborhood, 10 mins drive from the International Airport and a short walking distance from the Bahrain seashore and the upcoming Financial harbor.

• Bahrain International Hotel | Three-star hotel that is of average quality, but in a convenient location for Muslim travellers. Free airport transfer, breakfast and wifi.

• Al Bander Hotel & Resort | Al Bander Hotel & Resort is a popular destination for families. It offers 44 chalets and 36 cabanas, each with a comfortable homely feel. Restaurants and cafes, serving continental, Oriental, Chinese, (Thai) and Persian cuisine. The hotel’s busy marina is ideal for the boat-owner, and is well equipped with a fuelling station and mooring facilities. The resort has lots of watersports facilities, as well as 10 swimming pools in different places around the resort. Babysitting services, bars, beach, business centre, restaurants, swimming pools. Satellite TV.

• Al Safir Hotel | Standard rooms with a choice of twin or double beds. It offers comprehensive business and banqueting facilities, including the latest audio-visual equipment, telephone and UPS points in every room and an inbuilt PA system. The hotel also has two restaurants, a swimming swimmingpool and a fitness centre. Babysitting service, bars, business centre, restaurants, swimming pool. 24-hr room service, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• Best Western Elite Hotel | Best Western Elite Hotel Bahrain is conveniently located just 5 min from downtown shopping complexes and 10 kilometers from Bahrain International Airport. It is also close to the Gulf International Convention and Exhibition Centre and the U.S. Naval Base. 96 guestrooms are spacious and well furnished with a coffee maker and internet access. 5 outlets for dining and entertainment. Conference and banqueting facilities for up to 140 persons. Health and leisure facilities include a rooftop swimming swimmingpool and a fully equipped health and fitness centre. Babysitting services, bars, gym, restaurants, swimming pool. 24-hr room service, mini bar, internet, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• Elite Suites Hotel | Luxurious hotel with 215 spacious guest rooms and suites. 5 minutes from the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre and at close proximity to various shopping malls. Ooutdoor swimming swimmingpool and a gym. Babysitting services, business centre, meeting rooms, gym, kids’ club, restaurants, swimming pool, 24 hours room service, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• Golden Tulip Bahrain - formerly Hilton Bahrain) - Standard hotel that maybe in need of a renovation. Rooms are clean and the staff are amiable however the dull façade and decor may be depressing to people who are lodging here for more than a couple of days. One of the few redeeming qualities is that it has the only authentic Japanese restaurant in Bahrain. The hotel was renovated in 2008.

• Gulf Gate Hotel | 125 rooms and suites. Located in central Manama and the commercial centre of Bahrain. Cafés, a restaurant, night clubs and café. 2 minutes walk from the main souk and shopping centres. Business centre, gym, restaurants, spa, swimming pool. 24-hr room service, internet, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• Gulf Pearl Hotel - A/C rooms and suites equipped with Internet connection, a private toilet and shower, Minibar with alcohol removed, and a cable television. Swimming pool, restaurant/café/bar, fitness room, and a business centre.

• Mashtan Hotel | A/C rooms with private toilet and bath with shower, high-speed Internet connection, cable TV and Minibar with alcohol removed. Swimming pool, fitness room, business center, and airport transfer.

• Mercure Grand Hotel | Recipient of 2007 MENA Travel Awards (Silver Best Four Star Business/Corporate Hotel Category). In the Seef business neighborhood. 72 suites and 48 family suites. Nearby to Seef and Al Aali malls. Restaurant, 2 bars, meeting rooms, health club, private secluded sauna, steam room, private massage facility with gymnasium and a swimming pool. Private parking is available.

• Novotel Al Dana Resort | Traditional Arabic architecture and design with contemporary fittings and comfort. 172 rooms. Close to the diplomatic area and business centre. The hotel offers a variety of restaurants, bars and meeting rooms. Babysitting service, private beach, watersports, swimming pool, fitness centre, kids’ club, kids’ pool. 24-hr room service, internet, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• Pars International Hotel | Located in Juffair's commercial and residential area and overlooking Manama Bay. Standard and deluxe rooms to regal suites. Lobby bar, a disco, Arabic night club. Restaurant and 24 hours coffee shop. Conference and banqueting facilities including a ballroom suitable for functions and accommodating up to 300 people. Swimming pool, private secluded sauna, steam room and fitness centre. Parking is available for all guests. Swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, business centre. 24-hr room service, internet, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• Phoenicia Tower Hotel - Individually controlled A/C, private toilet and shower with bathtub, cable TV, and internet access. Swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna, fitness room/gym.

• Ramada Bahrain | Airport transfers free of charge if you email in advance. Has swimmingpool on site but the cleanliness of the swimmingpool is questionable.

• Somerset Al Fateh Bahrain - Its 118 apartments, which range from one to three bedroom and four two-bedroom penthouse suites, are furnished with contemporary décor and modern fittings. Wi-Fi is available in the apartment and lobby.

• Crowne Plaza Bahrain - formerly Holiday Inn - Gracefully aging sprawling low-rise complex. Largish gym (men and women have separate facilities), decent breakfast, service can be mixed.

• The Dragon Hotel & Resort | A secluded getaway along the Amwaj Islands waterfront. Views of the sea and infinity pools. Modern rooms and stylish amenities. Suites, chalets and villas. Each suite has its own private terrace that overlooks the swimmingpool and sea. Deluxe chalets have two levels and 3-4 bedrooms. 3 level villas have 4 bedrooms and private terrace, garden, Jacuzzi and swimming swimmingpool and include elevators, 2 kitchenettes, multiple living areas and extensive storage space. Children's pools and play areas provided. Water sport activities offered by the hotel such as jet skiing. Onsite 2 dining establishments and 2 waterfront lounges that attract stylish visitors from across Bahrain.

• Banyan Tree Al Areen | Attention to detail and opulent surroundings. The staff are welcoming and attentive, without being overwhelming, and the food is good.

• Ritz-Carlton Bahrain | 7 stories of luxurious rooms with a modern design. The Club Lounge restaurant features five different food presentations a day, and includes an American breakfast. Stunning views of the Arabian Gulf from the rooms.

• Sheraton Bahrain Hotel & Towers | In the heart of the business and diplomatic area. 260 comfortable guest rooms and suites, most of which have been recently renovated with a stylish and contemporary décor. All rooms have the Sheraton Sweet SleeperSM Bed. Soie Chinese Restaurant and Al Safir Restaurant with international buffets and á la carte selections. Cafe with live entertainment.

• The Regency InterContinental | 321 rooms and a variety of suites, including the Summit, deluxe suites, royal and presidential suites. 5 restaurants offer a range of international and themed cuisine, plus a number of cafes with live entertainment. Babysitting services, bars, business centre, gym, kids’ club pool, restaurants, spa, sports facilities, swimming pool, 24-hr room service, internet, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities (on request).

• The Gulf Hotel | The biggest 5-star hotel on the Island with more than 35 years of experience. Combines luxury, tradition, comfort and service. 366 rooms in total. 12 restaurants, lounges and bars.

• The Moevenpick Hotel | Swiss flair and traditional Arabian hospitality. Overlooks a lagoon and features a fine dining restaurant, international bar, atrium lobby restaurant, swimmingpool bar, parking area and two outdoor tennis courts. 7 min travel distance from the city. Babysitting service, business centre, gym, spa, swimming pool, tennis courts. 24-hr room service, internet, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities (on request).

• The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa | 246 rooms in three styles: Classic, Maritime and Italian. 3 exclusive "Royal Club" executive floors and a variety of suites. Claims to have Bahrain's biggest rooms, fully renovated and all with sea view. Meeting facilities, a selection of restaurants and entertainment options. Babysitting services, bars, business centre, gym, kids’ club,, sports facilities, swimming pool. 24-hr room service, internet, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

• L'Hotel | Stylish, near shopping areas and close to town. 90 rooms. Business centre, VIP room facilities, wifi, vehicle rental, private secluded sauna, hammam and outdoor swimming pool. Restaurant with French-Mediterranean cuisine at “L'avenue”, managed by the famous Chef Philippe Marc. (Hotel closed without notice at end of June 2012 and the management did not even bother to inform 'guests' who had reservations.)

• Swiss International Palace Hotel | 84 rooms, a variety of dining options and evening venues. Free Wi-Fi is available in the guests’ rooms & public areas. There's an outdoor swimmingpool and a gym.

Travel Next

• Saudi Arabia is just across the King Fahd Causeway — if you have the visa, of course.
• Hawar Islands Are a group of islands situated off the west coast of Qatar in the Gulf of Bahrain of the Persian Gulf. In 2002, Bahrain applied to have the Hawar islands recognised as a World Heritage Site, due to its unique environment and habitat for endangered species. This site is home to many wildlife species and a very interesting place for birdwatchers and divers. Hawar Islands used to be one of the settlements of the Bahraini branch of the Dawasir who settled there in the early 1800s and on the main island of Bahrain in 1845 in the areas of Zallaq and Budaiya.

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