If you were planning to explore one of Bahrain’s most unique heritage attractions this summer, there’s an important update to know. The Pearling Path will be temporarily closed from July 1 until August 31, 2026.
Named one of TIME Magazine’s Best Tourist Destinations for 2024, the Pearling Path tells the story of Bahrain’s pearling heritage. Walking along the route takes you through historic houses, majlises, and other buildings that reveal how the pearl trade shaped daily life before the oil era.
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pearling Path stretches for about 3 km and follows the journey of a pearl from the seabed to the merchants who traded it.
When following the route, you’ll find:
- 17 historic buildings in Muharraq
- Three pearl beds (Hayrat)
- Part of Bu Maher Fort and the coastline where pearl diving boats once departed
- Homes of pearl merchants (Tawash), dive captains (Nukhada), and pearl divers
- Shops that sold boats, wood, and supplies for pearl diving journeys
Qal’at Bu Mahir will continue welcoming visitors during these dates, and the rest of the Pearling Path will reopen after the temporary summer closure after August 31.
While the Pearling Path is closed, you can still connect with Bahrain’s pearling legacy at Bu Maher Fort by joining a Pearl Snorkeling experience. Book your spot to search for natural pearls in the shallow oyster beds, learn the traditional art of pearl shucking, and take home any pearls you find.
