Bab Al Bahrain is located at the entrance to the Manama souq in Bahrain’s capital city Manama. Built-in 1949, it once housed the government’s administrative offices and overlooked the sea. Bab Al Bahrain has undergone many big changes over the years, but the Ministry of Culture undertook a project to preserve it as a cultural landmark and thus restored it to its former glory and eventually moved its tourism sector offices and visitor’s center into the building. Behind Bab Al Bahrain is the old Manama souq. The souq is a vibrant collection of shops offering a wide range of goods from textiles, spices, incense, perfumes, handicrafts, and souvenirs, as well as more modern products from all over the world. There are also a number of traditional coffee shops. The souq offers a unique shopping experience that brings to mind the style of commerce from days long past. The Manama souq is a must-visit while in Bahrain that visitors will be sure to enjoy.
