Bab Al Bahrain
Al ‘Āşimah
Bab Al Bahrain, meaning 'Gateway of Bahrain,' is a historic landmark located in Customs Square in Manama’s central business district. Originally built in 1949 and designed by British adviser Charles Belgrave, it once stood on the coastline but is now inland due to extensive land reclamation. The structure serves as the main entrance to the vibrant Manama Souq, one of Bahrain's oldest markets. Architecturally, the monument features a large archway with additional arches for pedestrians, blending Islamic design elements added during a 1986 refurbishment. A further renovation in 2013 modernized the facade and interiors, incorporating a tourist information center and handicrafts shop. Bab Al Bahrain is surrounded by Government Avenue, home to major banks and business offices, and is near landmarks like the Bahrain Financial Harbour. It also hosts shops and cafes, including Naseef Cafe, the country's first ice cream shop. The site remains a cultural hub and is planned to be a metro interchange by 2030, reflecting its ongoing importance in Bahrain's urban and cultural landscape.
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Tip: Visit Bab Al Bahrain during the cooler morning hours or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. The site houses a tourist information center where visitors can obtain maps and guides. Exploring the adjacent Manama Souq offers a unique shopping experience for traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs. Purchasing tickets or passes for events or transport in advance is recommended to ensure availability. Discounts may be available for groups or students, so inquire locally. Nearby cafes provide authentic local refreshments, enhancing the cultural visit.
Interesting facts
- •Bab Al Bahrain was originally located on the Manama coastline but is now several kilometers inland due to land reclamation.
- •The monument features one large arch for vehicles and two smaller arches for pedestrians.
- •Naseef Cafe within Bab Al Bahrain was the first ice cream shop in Bahrain.
- •Government Avenue, adjacent to Bab Al Bahrain, was once home to all Bahrain government offices.
- •Bab Al Bahrain is planned to be an interchange station for the Bahrain Metro, expected by 2030.
History
Bab Al Bahrain was constructed in 1949 under the guidance of British adviser Charles Belgrave as a gateway on Manama’s coastline.
Over time, land reclamation projects moved the coastline several kilometers away, leaving the monument inland.
In 1986, it was refurbished to include Islamic architectural features, enhancing its cultural significance.
A comprehensive renovation in 2013 updated the facade and interiors, transforming the ground floor into a tourist information center and handicrafts shop.
Historically, Government Avenue in front of Bab Al Bahrain housed Bahrain's government offices, making the area a key administrative and commercial hub.
Place Guide
Main Archway1949, refurbished 1986
The monumental arch is the centerpiece of Bab Al Bahrain, serving as the symbolic gateway to Manama Souq. It showcases Islamic architectural motifs added during the 1986 refurbishment.
Tourist Information Center and Handicrafts Shop2013
Located on the ground floor after the 2013 renovation, this space offers visitors cultural information and traditional Bahraini crafts, enhancing the visitor experience.
Naseef Cafe
A historic cafe within Bab Al Bahrain, known as the first ice cream shop in Bahrain, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the country's culinary history.
Contact
Phone: 1729 8777
