Bahrain Overview
Bahrain, officially known as the Kingdom of Bahrain, is a small island nation in the Persian Gulf. It’s the third smallest country in Asia (after the Maldives and Singapore), covering about 780 square kilometers. Geographically, Bahrain is an archipelago with 33 natural islands and numerous artificial ones, the largest being Bahrain Island. The country’s strategic location in the Gulf has made it a hub for trade and cultural exchange throughout history, connecting it with the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Persia, and India.
Flag of Bahrain.
Capital: Manama
Official Language: Arabic (though English is widely spoken)
Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
Bahrain’s climate is typical of the region, with hot, arid summers and mild winters. Due to limited natural resources like fresh water, the country relies heavily on desalination for its water supply.
Bahrain cityscape.
People and Culture
The people of Bahrain, known as Bahrainis, are known for their hospitality and cultural openness. The population is diverse and cosmopolitan, with Bahrainis forming a majority and a significant expatriate community from countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Western nations. This diversity is reflected in everyday life, with a unique blend of cultural traditions, languages, and cuisine.
Bahrain on the map.
Population: Around 1.7 million people
Ethnic Groups: Bahraini Arabs, Iranians (Ajam), Indians, and other expatriate communities
The local tour guides in Bahrain are registered on the PRIVATE GUIDE WORLD platform.
Bahraini culture is rooted in Arab and Islamic traditions but has a more liberal social environment compared to neighboring Gulf countries. Bahrainis are known for their warmth and friendliness, and social life often centers around family gatherings, food, and traditional festivals.
Bahrain National Library in Manama.
Traditions and Festivals: Bahrainis celebrate Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Additionally, Bahrain National Day on December 16th is a major celebration, with fireworks, cultural performances, and parades highlighting the country’s achievements.
Bahrain, Manama, and the Trade World Center towers.
Cuisine: Bahraini cuisine is known for dishes like machboos (a rice and meat dish similar to biryani), balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs), and seafood due to the island’s fishing heritage. Bahraini hospitality is strong, and it’s common for locals to invite visitors for tea, dates, or even a meal, especially in rural areas.
Religion
Islam is Bahrain's official religion, and the vast majority of Bahrainis are Muslims. The country takes a unique approach to religious diversity and has a high level of religious tolerance compared to other countries in the Gulf region.
The King Fahad Causeway to Saudi Arabia.
Religious Composition:
- Muslims: Approx. 70% of the population is divided between Sunni and Shia Muslims.
- Other Religions: Christianity, Hinduism, and a small Jewish community.
The Al Fateh Mosque is also known as the Grand Mosque of Bahrain.
Sunni and Shia Islam coexist peacefully for the most part, although there are occasional tensions due to differences in religious beliefs and political representation. Bahrain also stands out in the Gulf for its openness to other religions, with Christian churches, Hindu temples, and even a synagogue in the capital, Manama. The government is known for promoting religious tolerance and has made efforts to position Bahrain as a model of coexistence.
Definition of the word Tolerance in a dictionary.
Economy
Bahrain has one of the most diversified economies in the Gulf region, relying less on oil than many of its neighbors. Its economy initially grew from pearl diving and fishing, but petroleum became the main economic driver after oil was discovered in the 1930s. Today, Bahrain has developed into a financial and trade hub, strategically leveraging its location and business-friendly environment.
Oil industry well pump: A nodding donkey rig pumps crude oil up from the ground on an oil field in the desert, Bahrain, Middle East.
Key Sectors of the Economy:
- Oil and Gas: Though oil accounts for a smaller percentage of GDP than in the past, it is still important, with significant revenues coming from the oil fields shared with Saudi Arabia.
- Financial Services: Bahrain is a prominent financial center in the Middle East. Manama hosts many international banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies, making financial services one of the most significant contributors to the GDP.
Bahrain, Manama, the Isa Shaikh Causeway
- Tourism: Tourism is growing in Bahrain, focusing on cultural, heritage, and shopping experiences. Historic sites like the Bahrain Fort, the Bahrain National Museum, and the Pearling Path, combined with luxury hotels and shopping, attract a mix of regional and international tourists.
- Manufacturing and Industry: Bahrain has invested in aluminum production (with the state-owned Aluminum Bahrain, or ALBA, being one of the largest aluminum producers globally), petrochemicals, and construction materials, diversifying the economy further.
Tin Cans with the Flag of Bahrain.
Economic Initiatives: Bahrain’s Vision 2030 plan is focused on economic diversification, social equity, and sustainability to reduce dependency on oil. The plan includes investments in technology, logistics, and green energy sectors to build a robust, knowledge-based economy.
Key Attractions and Tourism
Tourism in Bahrain offers a mix of history, leisure, and unique attractions:
Bahrain, Hamad, the monumental city door.
- Historical Sites: The Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain), Barbar Temple, and the Tree of Life are popular spots that reflect Bahrain’s ancient civilizations.
- Cultural Attractions: The Bahrain National Museum, Pearling Path in Muharraq, and Beit Al Quran (House of Quran) highlight Bahrain’s Islamic culture and heritage.
- Modern Attractions: Bahrain Bay, the Avenues Mall, and luxury hotels and resorts attract a modern, luxury-focused audience.
- Sporting Events: Bahrain hosts the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, bringing international racing fans annually.
Tree of Life illuminated at night. Kingdom of Bahrain, Middle East.
Bahrain stands out in the Gulf as a welcoming, historically rich, and economically diverse country. Its blend of ancient heritage, modern economic drive, and cultural openness make it a fascinating destination. Whether it’s the historical depth of its forts, the vibrancy of its souks, or the skyline of Manama, Bahrain offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that attracts people from all walks of life.
Traditional Bahraini Bread.
8:00 AM – A Traditional Bahraini Breakfast to Start the Day
Our day begins in a humble café tucked away in the quieter streets of Manama. Breakfast is an unhurried, flavorful experience, and I’m excited to introduce you to a few local dishes. We’ll have balaleet, sweet vermicelli noodles topped with a savory omelet, and khubz, fresh Arabic bread with a dab of mehyawa, a spiced fish sauce with a punchy, umami flavor. Each dish has a history—balaleet is often made during Ramadan, and mehyawa has Persian roots, a reminder of Bahrain’s history as a crossroads of culture.
Traditional Bahraini Muhammar sweet rice dish seasoned with spices and date palm molasses.
As we sip on karak tea (spiced milk tea), I’ll share stories of how trade has shaped Bahrain’s cuisine. Flavors from Persia, India, and East Africa blend with local ingredients. This fusion is a big part of Bahrain’s identity and something you’ll find in our food all day long.
9:30 AM – Exploring the Heart of Old Manama and the Souk
Next, we head to the Old Manama Souk, a bustling market that is both a shopping destination and a living piece of history. We stroll through narrow alleys, the air thick with spices, oud, and incense scents. Here, I can help you find a perfect souvenir—maybe a bottle of oud, the rich, woodsy perfume made from agarwood. You’ll also find traditional jewelry, finely woven Bahraini thobes, and loose traditional dress.
Cinnamon sticks for sale in Manama souk, Bahrain.
This souk is more than a shopping spot; it’s filled with generations of family businesses, each with its own tale. I’ll introduce you to Ali, a third-generation spice seller who’ll show us the difference between local za’atar and Persian sumac. He has stories of how his grandfather used to barter with sailors from the Gulf, exchanging spices for pearls.
The Symbolic Archways of Bahrain Fort or Qal'at Al-Bahrain in Manama, Bahrain.
11:00 AM – The Historic Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain) and The Bahrain National Museum
A short drive takes us to Qal'at al-Bahrain, or the Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Standing here, you can almost feel the whispers of the Dilmun civilization that thrived here over 4,000 years ago. I’ll guide you through its layered history, from the ancient traders who sailed from here to Mesopotamia to the Portuguese, who once occupied the fort as they sought control of Gulf trade routes.
Qal'at Al-Bahrain, or Bahrain Fort, is the Ancient Harbour and Capital of the Dilmun Civilization in Manama, Bahrain.
One of my favorite stories here is about the spirit of the Dilmun people. The ancient texts found here reference a place of paradise, and some say Bahrain might even have inspired the Garden of Eden. It’s fascinating how this small island has sparked such enduring myths and stories over the centuries.
Sculptures at the Bahrain National Museum in Manama.
The Bahrain National Museum in Manama is the country’s oldest and largest public museum and a premier cultural institution. Opened in 1988, it houses an extensive collection of artifacts that trace Bahrain’s history from its ancient Dilmun civilization to modern times. The museum’s architecture is impressive, with sleek, minimalist lines and large open spaces that reflect a contemporary aesthetic, making it a landmark on Bahrain’s coastline.
View of the Bahrain National Museum.
The museum's collections include archaeological finds, Islamic art, and ethnographic exhibits highlighting Bahrain’s cultural heritage. Notable exhibits cover the ancient Dilmun civilization, showcasing artifacts like burial mounds, pottery, and seals. There are also immersive displays of Bahrain’s traditional lifestyle, pearling history, and Islamic manuscripts. Visitors can also explore reconstructions of traditional Bahraini homes and a section on traditional handicrafts, offering insight into Bahraini daily life and culture.
The golden roof of the modern National Theater of Bahrain Building mirrors the water in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, Middle East.
The Bahrain National Museum is more than just a museum; it’s a cultural hub that hosts art exhibitions, cultural events, and workshops. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding Bahrain’s rich history and contemporary culture.
1:00 PM – Lunchtime with Local Flavors and visit to The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC)
Qal'At Al Bahrain is the original capital and port of the island of Bahrain. It is part of UNESCO World Heritage.
Now that we’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch at a family-owned restaurant where the locals go. Here, we’ll share a feast of machboos, Bahrain’s signature spiced rice with either chicken or fish, seasoned with black lime and cloves, giving it a distinctively earthy taste. We’ll also try harris, a porridge-like dish of wheat and lamb that’s comfort food for Bahrainis.
Traditional Bahraini Muhammar sweet rice dish seasoned with spices and date palm molasses.
As we eat, I’ll tell you about Bahraini hospitality. Sharing a meal is one of the highest forms of friendship here, and you’ll find that people are always eager to invite guests to eat with them—it’s our way of welcoming you not just as a visitor but as a friend.
Bahrain World Trade Center in Manama.
The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) is a striking landmark in Manama, recognized for its unique design and innovation. Completed in 2008, this 50-story twin-tower skyscraper stands 240 meters tall and was the first commercial building in the world to integrate large wind turbines into its structure, making it a pioneering achievement in sustainable architecture.
The skyline of Manama, dominated by the World Trade Center building during the night, is Bahrain.
The two sail-shaped towers are connected by three sky bridges, each housing a wind turbine. These turbines harness the Gulf’s strong sea breezes to generate about 10-15% of the building’s energy needs. The BWTC design draws inspiration from traditional Arabic architecture and Bahrain’s maritime heritage, resembling the sails of a dhow boat.
The Shakir Tower in Bahrain.
As a significant business and commercial hub, the Bahrain World Trade Center houses offices, luxury retail stores, and restaurants. It attracts business travelers and tourists alike who admire its fusion of sustainability, style, and functionality. It’s both an architectural marvel and a symbol of Bahrain’s commitment to innovation and modernity.
The United Tower in Manama, Bahrain.
3:00 PM – A Journey to the Mystical Tree of Life
I have a unique destination in mind in the afternoon—the Tree of Life. This lone tree stands in the desert, green and thriving without any visible water source. I’ve seen tourists come here and stare, mystified at this 400-year-old tree’s endurance. Local legend says divine forces protect it, while some say it stands on the ruins of an ancient site with underground water channels.
Bahrain tree of life. A single tree is located in the middle of the desert. It is a natural wonder as it rarely rains at this place, and there is no water around to support the life of more trees.
As we stand here, you might feel a bit of the magic yourself. I think the Tree of Life symbolizes the spirit of Bahrain—a place that’s withstood the test of time, thriving against all odds.
Bahrain Tree of Life.
5:00 PM – Exploring the Pearling Path and Muharraq’s Historic Homes
We head to Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, to walk along the Pearling Path, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This route used to be walked by pearl divers who risked their lives diving into the Gulf for pearls, Bahrain’s most prized treasure. Here, I’ll take you to historic houses, like the Bin Matar House and the Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House, showcasing traditional Bahraini architecture.
Detail of the elaborately carved lattices in the walls of the Isa bin Ali house in Muharraq, Bahrain, which allow the circulation of air to cool the rooms inside.
One of my favorite stops is the House of Coffee, where we can try Bahraini coffee brewed with rosewater and cardamom. Each sip is a taste of tradition, and I’ll tell you stories of how coffee houses were once gathering places for merchants, musicians, and artists, a tradition that lives on even today.
A Detail of a wooden door at Shaikh Isa bin Ali House in Al Muharraq, Bahrain, Middle East.
7:00 PM – Sunset Over Bahrain Bay
As the day winds down, let’s take a leisurely walk by Bahrain Bay. Modern skyscrapers rise from the water's edge, casting long shadows as the sun sets. This is the perfect place to capture the beauty of Bahrain’s architecture, and I’ll show you the best viewpoints from which to photograph the iconic Four Seasons Bahrain Bay.
A beautiful view of the Bahrain skyline during sunset.
I’ll share with you the contrast between Bahrain’s modern skyline and its traditional roots—it’s a place that has evolved but never forgotten its past.
8:00 PM – Dinner and Shisha in a Traditional Café
To finish our day, I’ll take you to a shisha café, where locals gather to unwind. We’ll try shisha in flavors like mint, grape, or even Bahraini rose. It’s a peaceful spot to chat about the day, sip on chai karak, and enjoy the rhythm of local life.
Bahraini Shisha.
Here, you’ll see Bahrainis of all ages—friends laughing, families gathering, everyone sharing stories, advice, and laughter. For us, shisha is more than just a pastime; it’s a ritual, a way of connecting and relaxing.
Bahraini Shisha.
A Final Reflection
As the night deepens, I hope this day has shown you a side of Bahrain you wouldn’t see alone. We’ve explored ancient history, tasted local flavors, and met people who’ve lived their lives breathing the essence of this island. Bahrain may be tiny, but it has big stories and warm hospitality. I hope you’ll carry a piece of this day—and the spirit of Bahrain—with you wherever you go.
A 50th-floor twin tower located in the City of Manama is a famous landmark in Bahrain.
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