Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Manama

Conservation Sites

Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve focuses on conserving native Arabian wildlife like the Arabian oryx and gazelles. Visits support these efforts.

Protected Habitats

Hawar Islands are a protected area, noted for unique ecosystems, birdlife, and marine habitats. Tourism is managed to lessen effects.

Resource Usage

Recycling infrastructure is evolving. Support businesses with sustainable practices. Minimize your waste, especially single-use plastics. Carry a Reusable water bottle from stores like Package Free Shop.

Environmental Factors

Bahrain, an island nation with finite natural resources, faces distinct environmental challenges. Your actions make a difference.

Water Preservation Efforts

Bahrain significantly depends on desalination for fresh water. Water is a valuable resource here.

Responsible Water Use

Be mindful of your water use during your stay.
Opt for shorter showers.
Reuse towels when staying in hotels to aid water preservation.
Every drop counts in this arid region.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

Consider strategies to mitigate your travel's environmental aspect.

Offsetting Travel Effects

Purchasing carbon offsets for flights to Manama is a consideration. Many airlines and third-party organizations, such as Terrapass, offer this.
For eco-friendly lodging, check Ecobnb.
Look for ethical tour operators like G Adventures.
Support conservation through organizations such as The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Sustainable Consumption

Your choices as a traveler can influence local environmental practices.

Mindful Purchases

Seek out businesses demonstrating sustainable practices.
Minimize your own waste, specifically single-use plastics.
Consider outdoor gear from sustainable brands like Patagonia.
Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Conscious Planning

Few accommodations hold explicit "eco-friendly" certifications, but you can still make conscious choices.

Lodging and Tour Inquiries

Look for hotels with stated sustainability policies.
Policies might include energy efficiency or water reduction.
Inquire about tour operators who prioritize responsible tourism practices.
Support businesses with waste recycling programs where possible.

Sustainable Choices

Eco-Friendly Stays

Seek hotels with sustainability policies and energy-efficient operations.

Explore Ecobnb

Responsible Products

Minimize waste with reusable items from Package Free Shop and durable gear from Patagonia.

Shop Green

Conscious Travel

Few accommodations in Manama hold explicit 'eco-friendly' certifications. However, look for hotels with stated sustainability policies, including energy efficiency, water reduction, or waste recycling.

Cultural Observance

Cultural awareness marks a thoughtful traveler.

Heritage Preservation

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) works to preserve historical sites like the Pearling Path and Bahrain Fort.

Supporting Local Culture

They promote traditional arts and cultural heritage.
Support these efforts by visiting these sites and discovering local traditions.
Engage with local artists and artisans.
Learn about Dilmun, Portuguese occupation, and Islamic era history.

Interacting Respectfully

Thoughtful interactions improve your travel experience and community relations.

Interaction Guidelines

Always seek permission before photographing people, especially women. Respect privacy.
Show consideration during prayer times. Avoid walking in front of worshippers or making loud noises near mosques.
During Ramadan, avoid open consumption of food, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours (sunrise to sunset).
A light handshake is common when greeting people of the same gender.

Photography Ethics

Be mindful of privacy when photographing.

Ethical Guidelines

Do not photograph children without explicit parental consent.
Avoid taking photos that could be perceived as intrusive or disrespectful.
Respect signage regarding photography restrictions.
Focus on landscapes and architecture if unsure about people.

Religious Site Protocol

Showing reverence at mosques and other holy places is customary.

Reminders

Remove your shoes before entering mosques.
Women must cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves.
Maintain silence and show respect during your visits to religious sites.
Observe and appreciate the architecture and atmosphere without causing disturbance.

Sensitive Topics and Social Norms

Awareness of local taboos and social norms prevents unintended disrespect.

Public Behavior

Avoid public displays of affection. Alcohol consumption in public places (outside licensed venues) is prohibited.

Discussions

Do not criticize the royal family, the government, or Islam. These topics are highly sensitive. Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious topics with strangers.

Legal Aspects

Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Same-sex sexual activity is technically against the law, though enforcement varies.

Ramadan Reminder

During Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, do not openly consume food, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours (sunrise to sunset). This gesture shows respect for those observing.

Economic Contributions

Your travel choices positively affect the local community.

Community Involvement

Local Purchases

Purchase goods directly from independent local businesses in the souqs.

Traditional Dining

Dine at small, traditional eateries for authentic experiences.

Pearl Sourcing

For pearls, check their origin; true Bahraini pearls have specific certifications.

Ethical Spending

Seek out locally made handicrafts.
When you buy directly from artisans, the economic benefit remains within the community.
Your choices support fair trade practices.
Look for genuine Bahraini products.
Support businesses that demonstrate ethical sourcing.
Consider independent shops over large retail chains.

Supporting Local Enterprises

Choose to dine at traditional Bahraini restaurants rather than always opting for international chains.
This supports local families and preserves culinary traditions.
Shop at local markets and independent stores instead of exclusively visiting large malls.
This aids small businesses.
Engage with local service providers.
Participate in cultural tours led by local guides.

Ethical Conduct Overview

Avoiding Exploitation

Avoid engaging in any activities that exploit people, like child labor, or animals.

Consumer Awareness

Be aware of your role as a consumer and make choices that support ethical practices.

Charitable Giving

If you wish to contribute to charity, do so through established and reputable local charities. Avoid giving directly to beggars on the street.

Local Support Tip

This also presents a more authentic experience.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel