The Best Things to Do in Muharraq, Bahrain

Walking around Al Qaisariya market, you can buy a variety of items ranging from pearls to spices and teas at the many shops dotting the streets. The souq was established by Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed, who ruled from 1825 to 1842. The word ‘Qaisariya’ means a type of market established by the ruler. These were typically closed markets with two main doors, one for entry and the other for exit. They would open in the morning and close in the evening in order to protect the market from thieves.

Muharraq is home to traditional houses, some of which belong to local pearl merchants. Bahrain was a major exporter of pearls during the Dilmun era and beyond. Unfortunately, the industry saw a decline in the 1930s after the discovery of oil in Bahrain, as well as the entry of Japanese cultured pearls in the market. This forced the merchants to move to other areas, but the government took steps to protect and refurbish the architectural heritage of the area. Check out these houses, which are also part of the Pearling Path, a UN World Heritage site, and worth exploring on foot. Three oyster beds located 40 to 70 km (25 to 44 miles) off Bahrain’s northern shores also form a part of the Pearling Path.

Busaad Art Gallery, the former home of artist Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad, is beautifully restored with elaborate wooden balconies. You will find the artist’s colourful, bold artworks displayed here. There is a gift shop that you can visit too. If you follow Airport Avenue towards the airport and close to BBK bank, you’ll find the multiple-award-winning artist, Rashid Al Oraifi’s former home. Now a privately owned museum, it displays artwork capturing the spirit of the Dilmun era in an abstract manner. You can buy books, postcards, mugs, and jewellery bearing Oraifi’s art at the museum’s gift shop. Maison Jamsheer is yet another traditional house turned into an art gallery and hosts a range of cultural events.

Bu Maher Fort, which was built in 1840, is steeped in seafaring and pearling history. It’s the first stop in the historical Pearling Path, having once served as the main fishing harbour and gateway to and from the sea. You can take a boat from the Bahrain National Museum harbour to access the visitor’s centre at the fort. Then there’s Arad Fort, which was built in approximately the 15th century. It was located on a separate island back then, which has now been joined to Muharraq. It’s better to visit after sunset, when the lights go on and the structure looks breathtaking with its Islamic-style architecture. Keep a watch for the seasonal cultural festivals hosted here throughout the year.

Dohat Arad Park is a 3 km (1.9 mile) walkway where fitness enthusiasts come to jog and exercise every day. If you visit during the early morning, it’s less crowded and you may spot local birds along the rocks. Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park in Hidd is also a great place to rejuvenate; it’s got patches of green grass where you can relax and watch people walk, as well as a play area for kids. Children can even rent bicycles and tricycles for a nominal amount but make sure you have a photo ID of some sort to show. There is some exercise equipment including stationary cycles as well. Don’t forget to enjoy the amazing view of the sea and Bahrain’s skyline from the tower café. You will have to pay a BD2 (about USD$5) entry fee which includes complimentary food at the café – though the menu is rather basic.

Seef Mall’s second property in Muharraq is a great place for a family day out with its many well-known fashion and beauty brands, as well as a roster of exciting food outlets. Another option is Dragon City, a unique mall in Diyar Al Muharraq, which is a group of seven artificial islands located in Muharraq. It has numerous retail and wholesale shops, selling Chinese goods right from jewellery and household items through to electronics and clothes. Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll have to walk a lot. That being said, there is a food court in case you get too tired.

This group of man-made islands near the coast of Muharraq is well-known for its plush residential buildings, as well as restaurants and beach activities. The Lagoon, located in the heart of the islands, has many restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines, as well as cafés, all of which stay open late into the evening. Cultural markets with stalls selling artwork, accessories and other items are also hosted here. If you’re an animal lover, visit the Aziza Bird Kingdom, home to over 70 different species of birds, many of which are endangered or rare.

Visit the original Al Hedaya Al Khalifiya School building in northern Muharraq. This boys’ school was established in 1919 and represents an important milestone in the history of modern education in the Kingdom. Prior to this Quranic schools were the main educational institutions in the country. The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, is overseeing the complete renovation of the building and plans to transform it into a museum. There are plans to rebuild the Al Khalifiya Library too, which is one of the first public libraries in Bahrain.