Manama


Fact file


Capital Manama


Population 1.57 million


Currency Bahraini dinar (BD)


Time difference GMT+3


Flight time Direct flights from Heathrow to Bahrain take about six-and- a-half hours


Essential experiences First-time visitors cannot afford to miss the


capital city of Manama in the north, which is home to a fantastic food and arts scene, the magnificent Al Fateh Grand Mosque and a lively souq (market) and shopping centres. Other popular hotspots outside the capital


include the Sakhir desert, home to Bahrain’s motor sport scene, as well as the northern island of Muharraq (home to the Pearling Path Unesco World Heritage Site) and


the Reef and Nurana islands, just north of the capital, which boast unmatched skyline views. Meanwhile, just off the east coast lies Al Dar Islands, which have some of the country’s finest beaches.


History and heritage To truly get a taste of how Bahrain has


developed into the Kingdom it is today, understanding its past is essential. Most famous for its extensive pearling history, Bahrain is synonymous with the ancient tradition. Visitors can learn more about the pearling industry, particularly at the trail known as the Pearling Path, in Muharraq. There are also landmarks that tell the story


of the ancient Dilmun empire, museums that showcase artefacts from more than 6,000 years of Bahraini history, and well-preserved structures dating from the 17th century.


Fuss-free flights Bahrain International Airport is in Muharraq


Muharraq Souq


and welcomes a daily service from Heathrow and Manchester. The direct flights take about six-and-a-half hours. Alternatively, clients can choose to fly from other UK hubs and transfer in Frankfurt, Paris, Rome or Milan.


Entry requirements Visitors need a passport that’s valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry, plus a visa, which can be issued in advance or upon arrival for various lengths of up to six months


Calling code +973


Climate Between October and April, temperatures range from 17C-26C. There’s glorious sunshine and an average temperature of 35C between May and September.


Languages Arabic, English


GUIDE TO BAHRAIN 2023 5


Introduction to Bahrain


PICTURES: Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority; Shutterstock/Preju Suresh


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