Practical Tips for Your Visit: Manama

General Travel Considerations

Small considerations make a big difference on your journey.

Connectivity & Navigation

Acquire a local SIM card for data.
Download offline maps of Manama.
Use ride-sharing apps for city travel.
Seek hotel Wi-Fi upon check-in.

Health & Well-being

Maintain hydration, drink bottled water.
Apply sun protection regularly.
Note local clinic and hospital locations.
Carry hand sanitizer for public areas.

Cultural Awareness

Wear modest clothing in public.
Learn basic local greetings.
Be mindful when visiting religious sites.
Ask permission before photography.

Financial Aspects

Understand the Bahraini Dinar (BHD).
Inform your bank of travel dates.
Allocate funds for daily expenses.
Exchange currency at reputable places.

Culinary Exploration

Savor Manama's diverse food scene.

Local Delights

Try Machboos, a flavorful rice dish.
Taste fresh local bread with dips.
Sip traditional Arabic coffee.
Discover regional desserts.

Dining Out

Explore various restaurant types.
Understand local tipping customs.
Visit Adliya for diverse eateries.
Book tables for popular spots.

Dietary Needs

Find vegetarian and vegan options.
Halal food is widely available.
Communicate any food allergies.
Fresh produce at local markets.

Beverages

Drink plenty of bottled water.
Try Karak tea, a local favorite.
Taste fresh fruit juices.
Explore various coffee shops.

Shopping Experiences

Discover unique items and modern retail in Manama.

Souqs & Markets

Visit the Gold Souq for jewelry.
Explore the traditional Manama Souq.
Practice friendly bargaining.
Compare prices before purchase.

Modern Malls

Shop at Bahrain City Centre.
Discover the Avenues, Bahrain.
Expect fixed prices in malls.
Find international brands.

Unique Finds

Seek out authentic Bahraini pearls.
Look for traditional handicrafts.
Buy local spices and dates.
Find local art pieces.

Shipping Home

Check customs regulations for your country.
Inquire about shipping services at stores.
Keep all receipts for purchases.
Consider packaging for fragile items.

Local Transport

Navigate Manama with these transport options.

Ride-Sharing & Taxis

Use Careem or Uber for convenience.
Choose metered taxis for fares.
Confirm fare before beginning journeys.
Book through apps for transparency.

Public Buses

Explore the city bus network.
Acquire a bus card for easy use.
Check bus routes for your destination.
Observe bus schedules.

Car Rental

An International Driving Permit is useful.
Drive on the right side of the road.
Be aware of parking regulations.
Use GPS for navigation.

Walking & Cycling

Explore pedestrian-friendly areas.
Look for designated cycle paths.
Consider heat, especially in summer.
Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Traveler's Tip

Carry small denominations of local currency for souqs and small purchases.

Manama Experiences

Manama presents a variety of memorable experiences.

Historical Sites

Explore ancient forts and archaeological wonders.

Culinary Journey

Savor diverse flavors from traditional to modern.

Retail Therapy

Shop in bustling souqs or modern malls.

Cultural Immersion

Arts & Heritage

Visit the Bahrain National Museum.
Explore contemporary art galleries.
Discover traditional crafts.

Music & Performance

Listen to traditional Arabic music.
Attend live cultural shows.
Check for local festivals and events.

Local Insight

Friday is a day of rest; many businesses open later in the afternoon.

Practical Tips for Your Manama Visit