What to do in Manama

Over the weekend, some lanes on the Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway in Bahrain will be closed, especially if you're driving from A’ali towards Manama. The Ministry of Works has announced that from Friday, January 31, starting at 1 AM until Sunday, February 2, at 5 AM, lanes will be closed in stages. First, one lane will be shut down, then eventually two lanes will be blocked off. This inconvenience is just a part of the highway's expansion project, so it will only be temporary. If you usually take this route, it's a good idea to plan ahead to avoid...

Get ready for an incredible two-week journey through sound, culture, and tradition as Bahrain International Music Festival 2025 kicks off this October! Celebrating International Music Day, this annual festival brings together an impressive line-up of both local and international artists. Whether you're a fan of jazz, classical, folk, or world music, there’s something to hit every note. Running from October 3 to October 16, the festival celebrates the power of music as a bridge across cultures. From iconic Bahraini artists to globally renowned musicians, this is an event you won't want to miss. Bahrain International Music Festival 2025: Shows of...

Moda Expo, Bahrain’s much-anticipated pre-Ramadan shopping event, is back from February 27 to March 1, 2025, at the Gulf Hotel Convention Centre. With over 80 brands from Bahrain and across the region, the event brings a diverse collection of fashion, jewelry, perfumes, skincare, and home accessories — all in one place. This annual pop-up is a perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe, find unique gifts, and discover handcrafted pieces just in time for Ramadan. Whether you’re looking for elegant abayas, statement jewelry, or luxury fragrances, you won't be leaving Moda Expo empty-handed.     View this post on Instagram  ...

Carrefour has officially closed its doors in Bahrain and Kuwait, bringing an end to decades of service in these countries. The French retail giant thanked customers for their loyalty and support over the years, celebrating the many memories made along the way. This isn’t the first time Carrefour has exited a Gulf market – earlier this year, it also stopped operations in Oman. However, in Oman, the closure paved the way for something new: Dubai’s Majid Al Futtaim Group, which owned and managed Carrefour there, launched a new grocery brand called HyperMax. Carrefour continues to be a firm favourite in...

Luxury lovers and fragrance fans, mark your calendars! This autumn, Jewellery Arabia (33rd edition) x Scent Arabia (3rd edition) exhibitions land in Bahrain at Bahrain International Exhibition Center. If you’re passionate about high-end jewellery, watches, exquisite scents, and exclusive experiences, don't miss these events from November 25–29, 2025. You’ll find over 700 local and international exhibitors, including 85+ new brands introducing fresh designs, unique fragrances for women and men, hair mists, bukhoors, and interactive experiences that promise to make your visit unforgettable. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jewellery Arabia (@jewelleryarabiabahrain) Free online registration allows you to...

Bahrain has introduced a new water taxi system, offering a traffic-free way to travel across parts of the island by sea. This eco-friendly transportation option allows passengers to move between six stations across Manama and Muharraq with one-way or round-trip service. Operated by Masar Group, this service is available daily and offers a new way for both locals and tourists to commute while enjoying coastal views.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Water Taxi (@watertaxibh) Each water taxi carries up to 28 passengers (20 standard and 8 VIP seats) and is fully air-conditioned. Free...

On the evening of September 7, 2025, Bahrain’s skies will get an impressive celestial event: a total lunar eclipse. This type of eclipse happens when the Earth’s shadow completely covers the Moon, giving it a deep red glow during the central phase — a striking phenomenon sometimes called a "Blood Moon". In total, it will last 1 hour and 22 minutes. The eclipse will be clearly visible to the naked eye. No special equipment is needed, although binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view. This means Bahrain-based observers will be able to watch the entire eclipse from start to...

Blippi is making his way to Bahrain for two days of fun-filled learning and excitement. The well-known children’s entertainer will appear for a meet-and-greet experience on July 27 and 28 as part of the Bahrain Summer Toy Festival, now in its second season. Held at one of the biggest kid-focused events in the Kingdom, the festival is designed to spark curiosity and creativity through hands-on activities and stage shows. This year’s highlight is the arrival of Blippi, known for his playful way of introducing young audiences to the world around them.     View this post on Instagram   A...

Mark your calendars for an enriching experience at the Ritz Farmers Market, happening every Friday: January 24 & 31, and February 7 & 14, 2025. Stroll through the market to find a variety of fresh produce, handmade Bahraini crafts, and unique products from local farmers and artisans. It's a great opportunity to support local talent and discover the story behind every product. Located on the Croquet Lawn of The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, this event runs from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM and promises a delightful way to spend your Friday. You can also meet experts in farming and craftsmanship, learning firsthand...

Winter in Bahrain is all about enjoying the outdoors — and one of the season’s biggest highlights is the return of BNP Paribas Bahrain Jazz Fest, now in its ninth edition. Mark your calendars: the event is set for December 5, 2025, and will once again take place at The Royal Golf Club. This year’s theme, “Building Bridges,” aims to spotlight Bahraini heritage, along with jazz and blues influences that bring people and cultures together. The open-air festival has become a key event on Bahrain’s winter calendar, blending community spirit with great music and a laid-back atmosphere.     View this...