Manama Souk: Learn about the most important features of culture and markets in Bahrain

The Kingdom of Bahrain is one of the most important Gulf countries that depend on the oil economy, with an estimated per capita income of about 25,000 US dollars per year. This is a high rate for other countries, such as Egypt, Jordan and Yemen. Bahrain's population reached 1.4 million. This is a very good figure for the total national production rate there which is estimated at 24 billion US dollars in 2022. All these indicators make Bahrain a rich country on an individual level. In addition, the State of Bahrain is very famous for the abundance of entertainment places for the Gulf public.

There are many activities that can be practiced in Manama, whether in terms of tourism or shopping, and one of the best of these activities is to go towards the famous Manama market in Bahrain in general and in Manama in particular, so we learn together in this article about the most important features and history of this famous market in almost all Gulf countries.

When did the Manama market originate in Bahrain

The city of Manama itself arose in 1320 AD. Its purpose was a resting city where people coming from the port of Manama slept. It is from this city that the rest of the current cities that later represented the Kingdom of Bahrain arose. With the development of days, the Manama market itself was established in 1949 and the most distinctive thing about this market is that it is refreshing and large, as it includes 22 diverse markets, and usually hikers feel comfortable in the place. The market is a collection of roads and alleys located throughout the market.

The oldest market there is the Qaisariyah Market, and its existence dates back to 1819 AD, and this market was then owned by the owner of the emirate at that time, there you will find many famous streets such as Daily Street, Zubara, Pearls Street, Bab Al Bahrain Street and many other markets and streets.

Best times to visit Manama for shopping

Shopping needs to go out and walk the streets and this undoubtedly needs a suitable atmosphere. Bahrain is an oil country and does not contain any rivers or forests, but it is a desert island located on the Arabian Gulf Sea, and this makes its summer weather very harsh, and temperatures in the shade reach 40 degrees, but in winter it is very suitable, because its weather is sunny and it does not rain heavy because it does not contain high mountain ranges. So if you go to Bahrain to enjoy the beaches and summer tourism, there is no problem with going at all times of the year. But if you want to check out the city or the Manama markets on foot, then you need a good temperature, and this is found there in the fall and spring.

Manama Souk

Manama Souq is an integrated market, where you can find everything. Most tourists head there to shop and take any souvenirs from Bahrain. Usually the market will not take more than a day to reach all parts of it and inspect it completely. The place there is divided into streets and small dialogues. Of course, Arabs are famous for spices from the days of the Silk Road, so there are traders of the rarest spices around the world, especially spices that come from a desert environment, and this attracts many tourists from the West.

There is also the gold market, where there are many shops specialized in selling gold jewelry for women, and because Arab men do not wear gold, these shops do not sell any gold jewelry or jewelry for men. Also there are markets dedicated to clothing, handicrafts and souvenirs. The most important and famous section is perfumes because all perfumes there are taken from luxurious plants, flowers and spices, so the quality of perfumes in Manama is usually distinguished.

Eating in Manama Souk

After a lot of wandering inside the market, tourists or visitors usually head to one of the restaurants in the market to recharge food. One of the most popular Bahraini dishes that almost everyone tries is Bahraini Hares. Harees are direct eaters and do not exist in many complications, as it consists of dried wheat puree next to a type of meat, whether lamb or chicken. Serve next to it soup or meat broth that has been settled. Some of the most famous restaurants in Manama Souq are Nassif Restaurant and Haji Restaurant. There is also another restaurant called Taj Mahal Restaurant which serves all the famous Indian dishes.

Important tips while visiting Manama Souq

First, you should visit the Manama market early in the morning when the temperature is still low, and the sun is not vertical as it happens at noon, especially in the summer when the temperature is very high, and the humidity is also not suitable for many visitors. Then you should not give in to the first price that the seller tells you, especially if it is clear that you are from a different country, because they raise prices for tourists, if you have a trusted tour guide who can provide you with information about the real prices of the goods you want to buy so that you are not exploited.

Also, you have to carry some of Bahrain's currency, which is the Bahraini Dinar, because not all merchants accept Visa or MasterCard payments. The last tip is to wear comfortable and loose clothes because the weather is hot, the humidity is high, and tight clothes cause sweating and make the shopping process uncomfortable, also wear comfortable shoes because you will walk long distances without feeling.

Conclusion

The Manama Souq is one of the most famous markets in Bahrain, representing the cultural and heritage flag of this country. It is not possible to visit Bahrain without going to the Manama Souq to learn about Bahrain's culture and history through this wonderful market. In addition to enjoying the most beautiful Bahraini dishes found in the most famous restaurants there. But don't forget to dress comfortably and have some money in Bahraini currency because not everyone accepts online payments there.