An archipelago of some 33 islands, Bahrain Island is the largest, with a land mass 55km long and 18km wide. Officially it is called the Kingdom of Bahrain and is the smallest of the independent Persian Gulf States. Historically the country is known for its oil and pearls but with over 200 financial institutions based in the city centre, finance has become the largest facet of its economy. Bahrain today has one of the strongest economies in the world.
Manama is one of the most liberal cities in the Middle East and as such has enjoyed massive growth in its tourism industry, with more than eight million visitors each year. Manama gives visitors a great insight into a liberal Muslim country without strict application of Islamic law; however it is recommended that women in particular dress modestly.
When planning your trip to Bahrain consider your safety and always check with your government or consulate before you leave.
Manama Information
Population: Approx. 150, 000
Time Zone: UTC
Languages: Arabic
Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
Currency Exchange: Ensure you exchange all your Bahraini Dinar before exiting the country as the currency can sometimes be difficult to exchange outside of Bahrain.
Manama Climate
Manama experiences a typical arid climate with extremely hot summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures range between 37°C (100°F) during the day and fall only slightly, to 30°C (86°F) overnight. Winter temperatures fall to 15°C (59°F) during the night, reaching 21°C (70°F) during the day.
Manama Airport
Name: Bahrain International Airport
Website: www.bahrainairport.com
Partner Airline: Etihad Airways
Car Rental: Mates rates on all car hire with our preferred partners
Around Manama
The Bahrain Fort (Qal’at as-Bahrain) is an ancient city, dating back to 2300 BC. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site, there are a number of different residential, commercial and religious constructions for visitors to explore. There is also a neighbouring museum which is free to enter displaying a number of artefacts preserved during the sites excavation.
Surrounded by the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf, water sports are extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. Local tourist providers have scuba diving equipment, sailing boats and jet skis for hire.
Spend a day on the green with Bahrain’s international 18-hole, par 72 champion golf course, The Royal Golf Club. Located in the luxury lifestyle community of Riff Views, the course is a quick 20 minute drive from the city centre. Despite its desert location The Royal Golf Club is landscaped with beautiful date and palm trees as well as five hazardous lakes.
Taking into consideration the size of the Bahrain, most day trips out of Manama take little more than hour to get to. Khamis, located south of Manama is home to one of the worlds oldest mosques, an impressive archaeological site with its two original minarets still standing and in good condition.
The A’ali burial grounds are one of the oldest in the world. The site consists of a number of chambers with ancient tombs and artefacts dating back almost 5000 years. Well worth the short desert drive it takes to get there.
Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain
5 Star property
Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain is the perfect base for business or leisure trip, for families or the independent traveler. Ideally positioned 15 minutes ride away from Bahrain International Airport, the property features 91 deluxe suites including three stunning penthouse apartments all equipped with top-notch facilities offering unprecedented views of Bahrain's skyline and the Arabian Gulf. The property does not have restaurant facilities. Several restaurants are available in the surroundings. There are an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and children's wading pool with whirlpool in a landscaped setting, state-of-the-art gymnasium, spa pools, sauna and steam rooms.
Somerset Al Fateh Hotel Bahrain
5 Star property
Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Somerset Al Fateh Hotel Bahrain is located in an exclusive residential area that offers scenic views of Bahrain. Offering beautifully decorated accommodation units with modern amenities, each unit has a well-maintained kitchen that allows you to prepare your meals. Guests can also enjoy spectacular sea views from their balcony. Recreational facilities such as gymnasium, swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna as well as steam rooms can be used for enhancing your physical well-being.
Ramada Hotel Bahrain
4 Star property
This property with its comfortable accommodation and convenient facilities is an ideal base for experiencing an exciting and adventurous vacation in the city of Manama. Located in the city of Manama, The hotel has comfortable guestrooms that are well furnished and equipped with modern amenities. Attentive room service is also available for your convenience. You can dine at the onsite restaurant that serves a variety of delicacies and enjoy a drink at the bar.
Days Hotel Manama
4 Star property
Situated in the heart of Manama, the Days Hotel is 9 kilometres from the Bahrain International Airport and is also close to the business, commercial as well as shopping districts of the area. It boasts elegantly appointed, modern guestrooms that are equipped with all the essential amenities. You can start off your day with a scrumptious Continental breakfast served at the hotel. For perfect relaxation, you can work out at the state-of-the-art gymnasium or bask in the swimming pool, which rejuvenates both body and soul.
Dining
Expats form around 30 per cent of Manama’s population making it a great city to sample international cuisine. Given it’s location it also boasts plenty of fresh seafood with bream and mackerel always in good supply. The Sheza Tower Hotel is famed for its Seafood Market Restaurant with an extensive seafood menu on offer. Located in the Diplomatic Area, this restaurant is well worth a visit.
A favourite amongst locals, Al Abraaj restaurants has been serving up flavoursome Arabic food in Manama for years. Found at a number of locations throughout the city, this is a great place to try traditional dishes like machbloos – savoury meat or fish served with rice or muhammar, a type of dessert consisting of sweet rice, sugar and dates. Cheap food stalls are a great way to try authentic local specialties. Keep your eyes open for the felafel and shawarma stalls which serve grilled meats and chickpea patties with tasty sauce, wrapped in traditional thin bread.
Shopping
Bahrain’s largest shopping centre, the Seef Mall is an air-conditioned oasis. Marble floors and glass domed ceilings house an impossible choice in international brands as well as themed cafes, restaurants and an international food court. The cinema, bowling centre and family entertainment precinct called Magic Island are sure to entertain people of all ages.
Haggle with friendly locals at the colourful souk markets. Here you can find everything from food and clothing to home wares and souvenirs. They also have highly skilled tailors who can mend or recreate your favourite wardrobe items in just a few days.
Bahrain is a fantastic place to shop for jewellery, especially gold. Most of the jewellery is made from 21, 22 and in some cases 24 (pure) gold which gives it a bright yellow glow and the craftsmanship is incredibly detailed too. With very competitive prices it’s easy to see why so many visitors spoil themselves with a trip to the gold souk.
