Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, a small island state in the Persian Gulf. It is the country's commercial and financial centre, and for many visitors it is the first place they see of Bahrain, whether they arrive by air or by road from the causeway that links the island to Saudi Arabia.
What a visit is like
Manama suits a visitor who enjoys a city with a working, everyday character. Its streets combine modern office towers and banks with older low-rise districts, and much of the life of the city runs around commerce: shops, offices, cafรฉs and the steady movement of people going about their business. The city is the natural base for understanding how Bahrain functions today, since government, finance and trade are concentrated here.
Around the city
- Financial district: The commercial heart of the country, where the banks and business offices of the Gulf region are concentrated.
- Waterfront: The city faces the Gulf, and a stroll along the water gives a sense of its position on the sea.
- Surrounding island: Day trips from the city can take you to other parts of Bahrain, reached by short drives across a small country.
Planning your trip
Manama is a useful stop for anyone interested in the modern Gulf, its trade and its cities. Because it is the centre of business and government, it is best approached with an interest in urban life and commerce rather than in beaches or wilderness. Check local information before you travel for current opening times, transport and entry requirements, as these can change.
