What to do in Manama

If you like dinners that come with a view, CLAW BBQ is worth adding to your list. Already popular across the region, it’s now open on the 44th floor of Hilton Bahrain, offering a rooftop setting made for unhurried meals and long evenings. Once you’ve settled in and taken in the view, the focus naturally shifts to the food. The menu includes barbecue and seafood, with popular choices like beef ribs, brisket, and king crab. CLAW BBQ the kind of place where sharing a few plates feels right. What really keeps people hanging around is the atmosphere. Between courses, you...

Major changes are underway in Bahrain as the Urban Planning and Development Authority completes 96 urban development projects. The Kingdom is merging the tradition with modernity and the Buri Masterplan stands out as one of the biggest developments. Buri, a village known for its historical treasures like mosques, cemeteries, and the Burial Mounds, is set for a major transformation. The Masterplan will turn it into a modern urban hub with a state-of-the-art transport network, including the highly anticipated King Hamad Metro Station. Here’s what’s coming to Buri: A modern city layout near the proposed metro station and a relocated central...

Bahrain is setting a shining example of what true gender equality can look like in the workplace. It’s been ranked first in women’s leadership opportunities among Arab countries. This achievement, highlighted in Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI) 2025, underscores the Kingdom's commitment to empowering women. The country's work to elevate women into leadership positions is helping close the gender gap, with more and more women moving into influential roles in government and business. The country has removed barriers, built programs, and put in place policies that give women the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. The Kingdom's strong performance...

In a world where negative news can feel overwhelming, we all need a little switch to heartwarming stories. Here's one from Bahrain! Recently, HH Shaikha Sheema bint Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa visited the Salmaniya Medical Complex to offer her support to those injured in Sitra and nearby areas. During her visit, HH Shaikha Sheema passed along the warm greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s Representative for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs. They also sent their best wishes for a speedy recovery to everyone affected,...

Ramadan is coming to an end, and many people are already looking ahead to Eid Al Fitr 2026, the holiday that marks the end of fasting. In Bahrain, the break will last five days, although the exact start of the holiday will depend on the moon sighting. If the moon is spotted that night, Eid Al Fitr will begin on Thursday March 19. If it is not visible, the celebration will start on Friday March 20. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, issued a circular confirming the Eid break for ministries...

Bahrain Film Festival is returning for its fifth edition, running from October 30 to November 4, 2025. Organised by the Bahrain Cinema Club in cooperation with the Ministry of Information, this year’s event carries the theme: “Short Films, Great Stories.” The festival aims to offer a meaningful space for local and regional filmmakers to demonstrate their work in one of five categories: narratives, documentaries, animations, student films, and Bahraini short films.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bahrain Film Festival (@filmfestivalbh) According to Festival Director Ammar Zainal, the theme this year highlights the depth...

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has announced the approval of a new “one-stop” travel system aimed at making cross-border travel easier for citizens of member states. The pilot phase of this system will begin in December 2025, with air travel between the UAE and Bahrain as the first stage. This initiative mirrors the coordination model of the European Union’s Schengen Area, focusing on simplifying travel by reducing the time spent on immigration, customs, and security checks. Under this new system, travelers will undergo all necessary checks at a single checkpoint upon arrival, eliminating the need for multiple inspections. If the...

If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to spend your pre-Iftar hours, Pace for Purpose might be just what you need. Instead of simply counting down the minutes until sunset, you can join this charity run in Bahrain, connect with like-minded people, and turn every step into something that truly makes a difference. Organised by Not A Cult, a local social run club, the event brings the community together on February 27 for a 40-minute outdoor run or walk. Unlike many sports events, this one isn’t about speed or competition. You can jog, walk, or move at your own...

The Ministry of Works in Bahrain has announced upcoming lane closures on two major highways this summer due to ongoing improvement and construction works. The affected roads are Zallaq Highway and Alfatih Highway, and the closures will begin in mid-July. Starting July 11, Zallaq Highway will undergo a two-month closure affecting two lanes near the Al Raffah area. The works are part of a project to build a new junction. While the exact reopening date has not been confirmed, the Ministry noted that it will be announced closer to the time. Check the map of affected area below.     View...

This weekend is going to be filled with art! The 52nd Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition is happening at The Bahrain National Museum on February 15. This event will bring together 70 talented artists. You’ll find contemporary artworks, from paintings and sculptures to photography, digital art, and installations. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for a cultural weekend experience, this exhibition is the perfect way to dive into the world of modern art. Expect to see pieces that highlight local identity while drawing inspiration from global influences. For those craving more than just an art experience, why not...