Muharraq

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 plane

• Bahrain International AirportThis is where Bahrain's international airport is located, and is the main base for Gulf Air with excellent connections throughout the region and London. The airport has good duty-free shopping; a Transhotel offering beds and showers (for a fee) to those awaiting flights is undergoing renovation.

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.

By bus

By boat

• Pearl TrailThis is a self-guided walking tour connecting the 17 historic buildings included in the UNESCO listing. It is being developed by the authorities, marked with blue paving stones, recessed lighting, and signage.

• Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House

• Siyadi House

• Abdulla Al Zayed Press Heritage House

• Abu Mahir FortFort was built to protect against western approaches. It was constructed upon the ruins of a much older fort, on Abu Mahir island. Fort is rest against the coastline and give beautiful sea views.

Arad Fort

address: Road 4233

This fort was built by Arabs in the 16th century. It was captured by the Portuguese around 1559 and then in 1653, Omanis seized it. Today, cultural events and shows are frequently held in the fort.

Al Oraifi Museum

phone: +973 17335616

This museum was opened by artist Rashid Al Oraifi in 2010 to display arts from the Dilmum era. It holds over 100 pieces.

Dhow shipyardTraditional wooden Arabian dhows are built here by hand, in the last dhow shipyard in Bahrain and one of the few remaining in the Gulf.

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.

• Muharraq SouqMuharraq is known for its traditional market. Full of variety of shops selling fresh fruits and vegetables, local crafts and everyday products, you can also purchase traditional Arabic sweets, halwa which are made in Muahrraq.

• Jasmi's

  phone: +973 17676999
  The most popular Bahraini fastfood chain.

Budget

Mid-range

Splurge

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.

Budget

Mid-range

Splurge

• Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

  phone: +973 17 460 000
  address: 143 Road 2403
  Swiss flair and traditional Arabian hospitality. Overlooks a lagoon and features a fine dining restaurant, international bar, atrium lobby restaurant, pool bar, parking area and two outdoor tennis courts. 7 min driving distance from the city. Babysitting service, business centre, gym, spa, swimming pool, tennis courts. 24-hour room service, internet, mini bar, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities (on request).

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