Bahrain - The Jewel of the Arabian Gulf

ALL About Bahrain

Bahrain Rich History

History

The history of this beautiful island nation dates back to thousands of years where it was called the ‘Pearl of the Gulf’. It was at the crossroads connecting major trade routes in the Gulf. This led to it being influenced by multiple cultures and religions. Bahrain was once home to the ancient Dilmun civilization, one of the most important influential civilizations of the Middle East. Dilmun was a popular spot for trade as it connected the Mesopotamian and Indus Valley civilizations.

The 7th century CE saw the advent of Islam in this region which completely changed. The 16th century brought about massive change in the atmosphere as it was the time for Portuguese and then Persian reign. It was only in 1971 that Bahrain gained absolute independence and became a sovereign nation.

Local Culture of Bahrain

Culture

Bahrain’s local cultures are very unique as they have evolved over millennia while being influenced by different cultures. Being situated along the crossroads leading to two great civilizations (The Indus Valley and Mesopotamia) has also had its effects over the ages.

You can find many mosques throughout cities and hear calls to prayer all day. Traditional and native song and dance are quite unique in this region and quite famous as well. These arts have been passed down through generations. Instruments like the Oud and dances like the ardah are the most popular.

Traditional crafts such as jewellery, basketry and pottery are very prevalent in this region and tourists can’t get enough of them. Souks or traditional markets are an integral part of Bahrain’s culture and you can find them in any city.

Languages Of Bahrain

Language

Bahrain is home to almost 1.2 million people of which more than 600,000 people are non-nationals or immigrants. Although it is the second smallest country in the Asian continent, cultural diversity is huge here.

The official language of the country is Arabic and it is the mother tongue of almost every local here. Official government information is also relayed in the same language. However, there are two dialects which are mainly spoken-Gulf and Bahrain Arabic

English is understood by a majority of the population. The large immigrant population has led to English being offered to be taught in school as a second language. You can also find many local newspapers, radio telecasts and TV shows that use English.

Other languages spoken in the area include Persian, Hindi, Nepali, Urdu, Tamil and Malayali.

Currency & Payments of Bahrain

Currency

The Bahraini Dinar is the official currency of Bahrain and it is denoted by the letters ‘BHD’. The Bahraini Dinar is the second-highest valued currency across the planet after the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD).

1000 fils make up one BHD and the coins that you can use are 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 fils. Banknotes are available with denominations of 0.5, 1, 5, 10 and 20 BHD. All these currencies are managed by the Central Bank of Bahrain.

Gglobalisation has brought about immense change over these lands and tourists are free to use their MasterCard and VISA issued credit and debit cards. Alternatively, you can also use the many ATMs that dot the cities to withdraw cash, as and when needed. Contactless payment systems like Apple and Google Pay are also accepted by many.

Bahrain Local Customs

Customs

Due to the many influences in the past, Bahrain is a land which showcases a myriad of local customs that are unique to this land alone. Being an Islamic nation the traditional greeting is ‘As-salamu alaykum’ which means ‘peace be upon you. The traditional reply is ‘Wa alaykum as-salam which also means the same thing.

Bahrain is also quite conservative when it comes to clothing for both men and women. Women are also expected to cover their hair while visiting places of worship.

During the holy month of Ramadan which sees people of the Islamic faith fast from sunrise to sunset, it is expected of visitors to not eat, drink or smoke in public places during the day. The Jumu’ah namaz is observed on Fridays and offices and other establishments remain closed for a few hours

Shopping In Bahrain

Shopping

Shopping in Bahrain can be a rewarding experience for any tourist as these lands offer anything in between traditional souks and high-end malls touching the skies. Whether you’re in the market for local handicrafts, unique souvenirs or top products from luxury brands, you can find it all easily.

As far as the traditional souks are concerned, the Manama and Muharraq souks are the best to visit. The City Centre, Moda and Seef malls are the best offering of the country.

Essential oils, perfumes and spices also have a lot of repute in this region. You can pick up great gifts for your loved ones back home from the many local shops located in cities of all sizes. Other popular gifting items include products that come from local artisans which include pots, handwoven rugs and baskets