Bahrain, the Arab destination that surprises with its authenticity and blend of tradition and modernity

We know it's not easy being a neighbor of Dubai, a tourist destination that competes for the top spot in everything. But if you're looking for a change of scenery from Spain and plan to explore new worlds, the Middle East is a country small in size but big in history and beauty that will surely surprise you. And the best part: if you're lucky, you can even return home rich. Did you know that, for the past few years, tourists traveling to Bahrain have been allowed to go pearl fishing and keep all the pearls they find?

Al Muharraq, the pearl of Bahrain

Asia's third-smallest country offers a perfect combination of ancient history, modern luxury , and a welcoming atmosphere. Al Muharraq, the country's second and most interesting city , will be the first stop in Bahrain, and also the last, as it is home to the country's international airport.

The former capital (until 1923), Muharraq surprises with its restored traditional Bahraini houses nestled among narrow streets. You can wander through its traditional streets with street markets or visit modern art galleries. So if you want to see what's happening in this part of the world, you can spend a couple of hours visiting the Busaad Art Gallery , the family residence of the Bahraini artist, where some of his work is displayed. Incidentally, it has been exhibited at the British Museum in London.

And if you haven't been lucky enough to find a pearl while diving, you can instead spend some time exploring the Pearl Trail , one of Bahrain's three UNESCO World Heritage sites . An open-air museum that will give you an insight into a time when the country's economy relied heavily on this trade.

The spice market in Manama

The next stop will be Manama, the capital of Bahrain. And of course, you have to start by visiting the city's traditional market , an experience that is part of the routine of any trip to an Arab country. And in this case, with its aromas and vibrant colors, you will not only immerse yourself in the most traditional Bahraini culture, but you will also discover, among the saffron and cardamom stalls, one of the most picturesque and lively places in this city. Wandering through this labyrinth of alleys and narrow streets, which still retains the charm of ancient souks, you will find everything.

Incidentally, the souk houses the only synagogue in Bahrain, as it is home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in the region. It is known as the House of the Ten Commandments and is a symbol of religious tolerance in the area.

Bahrain Bay

This business district, dominated by skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and sea-view restaurants, symbolizes Bahrain's most modern and futuristic side. As expected, the country strives to showcase its avant-garde and powerful side, so beloved by the Gulf states. In addition to strolling along its promenade , you can enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere and the best views of the city's skyline.

The Al-Fateh Grand Mosque

With a capacity for around 7,000 people, its enormous size stands out against the city skyline, and it is also one of the largest mosques in the world. It is part of an Islamic center, and while the exterior may seem similar to many others, its interior is a fine example of richness and modernity. Materials imported from around the world were used in its construction, such as Italian marble for the floors, Austrian glass for the windows, and Indian teak for the impressive doors, which reach 6 meters in height.

A historical treasure near Manama

Just 10 minutes drive from the capital and located on a hill, stands Qal'at al Bahrain, a fort It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is part of a pre-Islamic site that is over 4,000 years old. It is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and has a small museum and a cafe where you can enjoy an Arabic coffee while you relax. You'll delight in the stunning views of the Persian Gulf . It's not the only fort in the country; there are others, such as Arat and Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fateh. Some are closed to the public as they are the property of the royal family.

The Tree of Life

Don't leave Bahrain without visiting this fascinating 400-year-old tree, almost 10 meters tall, that survives in the middle of the desert and is a sight few tourists include in their trips. The Tree of Life is located on a hill in the middle of the Sakhir Desert, about 35 kilometers south of Manama.