Here’s why people are heading to this island kingdom...
It’s home to the Formula 1 racing circuit, but there’s far more to this Middle Eastern archipelago than fast cars and oil wells.
Bahrain’s cluster of 33 islands is known as the Pearl of the Gulf, thanks to its rich history of pearl diving. Now it’s becoming a need-to-know destination for culture, shopping and sport, so think of it as the new Dubai – but with way more history.
Here are seven things you need to see in the Kingdom of Bahrain…
1. Marvel at the Mosque
You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the splendour of Bahrain’s largest place of worship, Ahmed Al Fateh Grand Mosque. Boasting the world’s largest fibreglass dome, the Mosque can hold 7,000 worshippers at one time. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome outside of prayer times but do dress modestly and remove shoes (females should also wear one of the abayas provided).
4. Wander around Muharraq
There’s something magical about wandering the narrow alleyways of Muharraq, Bahrain’s second largest island which is connected by a road. Extensive restoration projects have brought some of the Kingdom’s oldest properties back to life. Explore on foot and take a break at the House of Coffee, a modern space that was once three traditional Bahraini houses. Here you can experience gahwa, traditional Arabic coffee.
6. Gen up on history
From pearl diving to ancient burial mounds, the best place to unravel Bahrain’s history is the National Museum. Set on the waterfront on the eastern shore of Manama, the vast, modern space is a treasure trove of archaeological and historical artefacts giving you an overview of Bahrain through the ages. Entry costs 1BHD.
