Muharraq

Muharraq is a metropolitan area in Bahrain, an island connected to the northeast of the capital of Manama.

Understand
Bahrain's former capital and third largest city, Muharraq has a long history dating back to approximately 3000 BCE. From ancient times until the 1930s the primary economic activity was pearling; today the city is known as a center for the arts and as one of the most religiously conservative districts in Bahrain.

In 2012 parts of Muharraq Island were collectively inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of their association with Bahrain's long history of pearling. These sites include seventeen historic buildings, Abu Mahir Fort, and three offshore oyster beds.

By car
From Manama you can easily get to Muharraq using one of the 3 modern causeways: 'Sheikh Isa Bin Salma', 'Sheikh Hamad' and 'Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman'. All of them will lead you to the airport.

Do
Drive to Amwaj, a far more developed "western-friendly" residential compound that is 10 minutes away from the airport. It has top-notch hotels and resorts such as The Dragon, and pricey restaurants to choose from, such as Burger Lounge, or the more luxurious Mojo - which also comes with a bar and a nightclub. The city has shopping (at the Lagoon), restaurants, spas, salons, apartments and hotels are still on their way.

Drink
There are no bars in Muharraq, which is a conservative city. However, you can enjoy a stay at the various Gahwas all around the city for Sheesha (Hookah), mint tea, Turkish coffee, Arabic coffee, or fresh juice.

Splurge




Respect
It is best to dress "modestly" when in Muharraq City: avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.