Things to Do in Manama in November

November Weather in Manama

28°C (82°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

18mm (0.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect walking weather with 21-28°C (70-82°F) temperatures making Souq al-Qaisariya and Manama Old Market exploration comfortable throughout the day
Minimal rainfall at just 18mm (0.7 inches) means outdoor activities like dhow sailing and Bahrain Fort visits rarely get disrupted
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix atmosphere creates electric nightlife and cultural events throughout the city
Off-peak tourist season means 40-60% lower accommodation prices and shorter queues at Bahrain National Museum and Al-Fateh Grand Mosque

Considerations

70% humidity makes midday outdoor activities feel sticky and uncomfortable, requiring frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces
10 rainy days create unpredictable afternoon downpours that can last 30-45 minutes and flood some traditional market areas
Strong winds from the northeast at 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph) can make dhow trips choppy and uncomfortable for sensitive travelers

Best Activities in November

Traditional Souq and Heritage Walking Tours

November's comfortable morning temperatures of 21-24°C (70-75°F) make 3-4 hour walking tours through Manama Souq and Muharraq's pearl diving heritage sites ideal. The lower humidity before 11am means you can explore the narrow alleyways and traditional architecture without overheating. Local guides are more available during this shoulder season.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours starting 8-9am to avoid midday heat. Tours typically cost BD 15-25 (USD 40-66) per person. Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed heritage tour operators. Reference booking widget for current tour options.

Bahrain Fort and Archaeological Site Visits

The ancient Qal'at al-Bahrain UNESCO site is perfect in November with clear skies and minimal rain disruption. The 70% humidity is manageable outdoors, and the fort's elevated position catches cooling breezes. November's stable weather means excellent photography conditions and comfortable exploration of the 4,000-year-old ruins.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak UV (index 8). Self-guided visits are BD 1, guided tours BD 8-12. Book audio guides in advance during F1 season. See current tour availability in booking section below.

Traditional Dhow Sailing and Fishing Experiences

November's moderate winds and clearer waters make traditional dhow trips around Manama Bay ideal, though expect some chop from northeast winds. Local fishermen offer authentic experiences before the busy winter season. The comfortable evening temperatures mean sunset cruises are particularly pleasant.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost BD 30-45 per person. Book through licensed marine operators 5-7 days ahead. Morning trips (7-11am) have calmer waters than afternoon excursions. Check current dhow tour options in booking widget below.

Authentic Bahraini Cooking Classes

November's variable weather makes indoor cultural activities like traditional cooking classes perfect alternatives to outdoor plans. Learn machboos, muhammar, and traditional coffee preparation in air-conditioned kitchens. Many classes include market visits during the comfortable morning hours.

Booking Tip: Classes typically run BD 25-40 per person for 4-5 hours including market tour and meal. Book 10-14 days ahead as F1 weekend increases demand. Most include transport from hotels. See current cooking class options in booking section.

Al Areen Wildlife Park and Desert Safari

November's mild temperatures make the 30-minute drive to Al Areen Wildlife Park comfortable, and the park's Arabian oryx and gazelles are most active in cooler weather. Desert areas are perfect for photography with clear skies and good visibility. The reduced rainfall means desert tracks are accessible.

Booking Tip: Combined park and desert experiences cost BD 20-35 per person. Book through operators with 4WD vehicles. Morning tours (8am-12pm) offer best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures. Reference current desert tour options below.

Pearl Diving Heritage and Museum Tours

November marks the traditional end of pearl diving season, making it culturally significant for heritage experiences. The Bahrain National Museum's pearl collection and traditional diving demonstrations are enhanced by comfortable indoor temperatures contrasting with the outdoor humidity.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is BD 1, guided heritage tours BD 10-18 per person. Book pearl diving experiences 7-10 days ahead as they're weather-dependent. Many combine with traditional boat trips. Check current heritage tour availability in booking widget.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

The pinnacle motorsport event transforms Manama with international crowds, special restaurant menus, and extended nightlife hours. Even non-F1 fans enjoy the festive atmosphere, live screens in restaurants, and cultural celebrations throughout the city

Late November

Bahrain Food Festival

Local restaurants showcase traditional Bahraini cuisine alongside international offerings. Street food stalls appear in Manama's cultural district, and many hotels offer special traditional menus. Perfect timing with comfortable evening weather for outdoor food markets

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - November's 10 rainy days bring sudden 30-45 minute downpours that flood traditional market areas

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 even with cloud cover, and reflection off traditional white buildings intensifies exposure

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester and synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity which trap moisture and become uncomfortable

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - marble floors in mosques and museums become slippery, and souq areas have uneven surfaces

Light cardigan or long sleeves for evening - temperatures drop 7°C (12°F) at night and restaurants over-air-condition during F1 season

Waterproof phone case - sudden rain and high humidity can damage electronics, especially during market visits

Portable fan or cooling towel - indoor venues may have inconsistent air conditioning and outdoor waiting times can be uncomfortable

Conservative clothing for mosque visits - lightweight long pants and shirts that cover shoulders, essential for Al-Fateh Grand Mosque tours

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated in 70% humidity is crucial, and many hotels offer filtered water to reduce plastic waste

Insider Knowledge

Local families visit outdoor attractions between 7-10am and after 5pm to avoid midday humidity - follow this pattern for comfortable sightseeing and authentic local experiences

November marks the end of traditional pearl diving season, so heritage sites offer special demonstrations and elderly divers share stories that aren't available other times of year

F1 weekend (usually second weekend) triples accommodation prices city-wide, but creates unique nightlife experiences - book 8+ weeks ahead or avoid these dates entirely for budget travel

Traditional coffee shops close during afternoon prayer times and reopen with fresh qahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates - perfect timing for escaping afternoon humidity and experiencing authentic culture

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 11am-3pm when humidity feels oppressive and UV is strongest - locals avoid this time and you should too

Not carrying small denominations for traditional markets where many vendors don't accept cards and don't always have change for large bills

Wearing synthetic fabrics that trap moisture in 70% humidity, making comfortable sightseeing impossible by midday