Discover Bahrain: What New To Expect When You Are In The Pearl Of The Gulf
Bahrain, an archipelago in the Arabian Gulf, derives its name from the Arabic term for "Two Seas." Its location has established it as a crucial commercial nexus for more than four millennia, serving as a trading hub and a key route for the pearl-diving industry.
Known as the Pearl of the Gulf, the country has recently seen a surge in new hotels, experiences, and restaurants. Over 20 hotels have opened in the past year, providing visitors with a wide range of luxurious accommodation options. Additionally, new retail experiences, concerts, and events offer limitless opportunities for an unforgettable journey through the country. Let's deep dive into what new to expect when your are in Bahrain.
New Hotels
Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour opened its doors in January 202 as part of the Hilton group. This 30-story waterfront property offers unobstructed views of Bahrain Bay and features 98 suites, a rooftop pool, and the globally acclaimed restaurant SushiSamba.
Another exciting development is Hawar Resort by Mantis, set to open in Q3 2024. Standing as one of the first environmentally focused projects of its kind in the Middle East, the new development will aid the island’s transformation into an eco-tourism hub, with aims to showcase local wildlife.
Guests visiting the island will encounter a diverse range of wildlife, including sand gazelles, vibrant coral reefs and endangered dugongs. The resort will feature 102 luxury accommodations, five distinctive dining venues, extensive sports and leisure facilities and separate areas for relaxation and adventure.
New Restaurants
In January 2024, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay introduced Byblos, a modern Lebanese eatery by Oriental Specialty Chef Tony El Khoury. It approaches Lebanese food from a modern angle, featuring vibrant mezze platters such as pesto hummus and beetroot carpaccio salad. The restaurant itself, nestled along the hotel’s white sand beach, is reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea, designed with turquoise and white tones and is complete with outdoor seating overlooking the shore.
Roka Bahrain also opened in April 2024 as an award-winning sushi restaurant with a contemporary take on traditional Japanese cuisine. Designed with an alfresco terrace and Japanese paper cherry blossom hues, diners will also have front row seats to the flaming theatrics of robatayaki grill.
Known for its expertly curated food and culture fairs across the globe, Time Out Market will make its debut in Bahrain later this year. Spanning over 35,000 sq ft on the top floor of City Centre Bahrain, the culinary hotspot will house 11 diverse kitchens, two bars, an outdoor rooftop and over 900 seats on two levels. With an exhibition space and stage, the market will also be a hub for home-grown talents and artists.
Events
The debut edition of Bahrain Toy Festival will be part of the Bahrain Summer Festival 2024. It is scheduled to run from July 1, lasting for five weeks, featuring top international toys brands and a variety of activities and events. The festival will also feature entertainment corners inspired by major brands such as Blebby, Blueway, Hot Wheels, Cocomelon, Disney Princesses, Happy Cappy, Marvel and Miraculous, among others.
Ahmed Saad, renowned Egyptian singer, and Kuwaiti singing group Miami Band will be gracing the stage of Exhibition World Bahrain this June. Saad's soulful voice have captivated the Middle East for over a decade, mixed with the Miami Band's dynamic energy promise an unforgettable night of music and enjoyment.
Held once every two years, the highly anticipated Bahrain International Airshow will be returning this year on November 13. Over 180 companies will in attendance and 100 aircrafts on static, the event will host insightful seminars, conferences and workshops covering topics such as market analysis and technological advancements.
Also taking place will be the Celebrate Bahrain Season (December 1-31) is an annual event that takes place during the month of December, as part of Bahrain’s National Day festivities. The jam-packed festival programme includes a wide variety of activities such as music concerts, live shows, games, carnivals and, of course, colourful firework displays. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a family looking for fun, or someone who enjoys live performances, there’s something for everyone at Celebrate Bahrain Season.
The annual shopping extravaganza known as Autum Fair is scheduled for January 2025. The consumer exhibition is set to showcase a diverse array of products, from fashion and accessories to home décor and electronics. Visitors can also indulge in treats from food stalls, enjoy live performances and participate in interactive activities throughout the event.
More Openings
Marassi Galleria in Manama has been expanding its retail offering since opening in February 2024. New shops include French fashion brand Hermès; Italian luxury house Etro; and French luxury jewellery brand Boucheron. The shopping centre features luxury and high street shops, restaurants, a cinema, and even an underwater zoo.
With these varied events, Bahrain continues to evolve as a hub for culture, innovation, and tourism with new developments and events that cater to both residents and visitors alike.
Sign in with Google