Things to Do in Manama

About Manama

Bahrain's capital sits where pearl divers' grandchildren now run financial firms in glass towers. Manama mixes old souks with new money—Arabian tradition hasn't disappeared, but the city won't let it slow progress down. The contrast works better than you'd expect. Walk through Manama Souq and you'll smell cardamom and frankincense in narrow passages that predate the office buildings by centuries. Then head to the waterfront. Traditional dhows dock next to luxury yachts, and nobody seems to find this strange. The city figured out how to keep its mosques and markets while adding jazz bars and corporate headquarters. This isn't about bridging East and West. Manama created something else entirely—a place where morning prayers and late-night rooftop music both fit. Business meetings happen in traditional majlis settings, and the reverse is true too. The mix of tolerance, heritage, and ambition delivers what other Gulf cities only promise.

Travel Tips

Transportation: City buses charge 200-400 fils ($0.53-1.06) for most routes with good air conditioning. Taxis start at 1 BHD ($2.65) plus 400 fils per km - airport to city center costs 4-6 BHD ($10.60-15.90). Uber and Careem operate with typical rides 2-8 BHD ($5.30-21.20). Intercity buses to Saudi Arabia cost 3-5 BHD ($7.95-13.25) but require visas. Car rental starts at 12 BHD ($31.80) daily including insurance. The causeway to Saudi costs 2.5 BHD ($6.63) toll each way. Walking downtown is comfortable with covered walkways and air conditioning. Parking meters cost 200 fils ($0.53) per hour.

Money: Bahraini dinar (BHD) subdivided into 1,000 fils. ATMs everywhere with most international cards accepted. Budget 20-40 BHD ($53-106) daily for comfortable travel. Credit cards universally accepted. No tipping expected but 10% appreciated for good service. Exchange rates roughly 1 BHD = $2.65 USD. Banking hours Sunday-Thursday 7:30am-2pm. VAT of 10% applies to most purchases. Mobile payments via BenefitPay popular. Gold souks prefer cash and offer better prices. Fuel is heavily subsidized at 140 fils ($0.37) per liter.

Cultural Respect: Arabic and English are official languages. Islam is state religion but other faiths practiced freely. Greet with 'Marhaba' or 'As-salamu alaykum' and handshakes. Dress modestly especially in Muharraq - cover shoulders and knees. Photography of people requires permission. Friday prayers affect business hours (12-2pm closures). Bahrain is liberal by Gulf standards - alcohol available in hotels and some restaurants. Business culture is international and punctual. Ramadan changes daily rhythms significantly. Traditional crafts include pearl diving history and pottery. Remove shoes when entering homes.

Food Safety: Machboos (spiced rice with meat) costs 3-6 BHD ($7.95-15.90) at local restaurants. Fresh fish at fish market costs 2-5 BHD ($5.30-13.25) per kg. Arabic coffee and dates are offered everywhere for free as hospitality. Shawarma costs 1-2 BHD ($2.65-5.30) and is excellent quality. Local haleem during Ramadan costs 2-3 BHD ($5.30-7.95). Restaurant meals average 8-15 BHD ($21.20-39.75) per person at mid-range places. Alcohol available at hotels - beer costs 3-5 BHD ($7.95-13.25). Indian and Filipino cuisines prevalent due to expat populations. Bottled water costs 200-400 fils ($0.53-1.06). Most restaurants close 3-7pm for afternoon break.

When to Visit

November through March offers Manama's most pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F) and minimal rainfall. This peak season sees hotel prices increase 40-60%, but the comfortable conditions make it ideal for outdoor exploration and dhow cruises. December and January are particularly magical, with perfect weather for wandering the souks and enjoying rooftop dining. April and May present shoulder season opportunities with temperatures around 25-35°C (77-95°F) and 20-30% lower accommodation costs. The Bahrain Grand Prix in March draws Formula 1 ensoiasts worldwide, significantly inflating prices. Summer months (June-September) bring intense heat exceeding 40°C (104°F) and high humidity, but offer the lowest prices (50-70% off peak rates) and fewer crowds—perfect for budget travelers who don't mind air-conditioned indoor activities and hotel pools. Ramadan dates vary yearly but typically feature reduced restaurant hours and unique cultural experiences. October marks the beginning of the pleasant season with improving weather and moderate pricing. Culture ensoiasts should target the Bahrain International Music Festival (October) or Spring of Culture Festival (February-April) for enhanced artistic experiences.