Authentic Bahraini Souvenirs: A Traveler's Guide To Shopping In Bahrain

Bahrain is a shopper's paradise, with everything from gorgeous beaches to world-famous museums and amazing local lifestyle offerings. But what souvenirs should you buy in Bahrain? Here's a list of the top souvenirs to look out for:

Abayas and scarves

You can buy abayas in most malls and souks (traditional markets) across Bahrain. If you're looking for abayas with a contemporary twist, you can explore 'Mobayas' by Bahrain-based creative entrepreneur Mobeena Inam, which offers a range of bespoke abayas with a modern spin. You can also find abayas with a more artistic flair at Ella Impressions, a range of merchandise that includes the eye-catching abstract art of Bahrain-based artist Ella Prakash.

Along with the abaya, be sure to purchase a matching scarf. You can find a variety of scarves at the Annada store in Seef Mall, owned by a Bahraini sister duo, which features the art of several Bahraini artists. Their merchandise includes not only scarves but also jewellery, stationery, and clothing.

The abaya holds great cultural significance in Bahraini society. It is a symbol of cultural identity, pride, and elegance, often worn on special occasions, religious events, and weddings. By purchasing an abaya and scarf as souvenirs, you will not only acquire a beautiful addition to your wardrobe but also a meaningful reminder of Bahrain's rich cultural heritage.

Bakhoor and perfumes

Bahrain is known as the 'Kingdom of Perfumes', and with good reason. The perfumers here are experts at creating scented oils with wonderful aromas, and the fragrances are usually packaged in beautiful bottles that make for exquisite gifts.

Bakhoor is a type of incense that is derived from the wood chips of fragrant trees. It is often burned for special occasions like weddings and religious ceremonies, but it is also used as an everyday fragrance in homes. As you wander through the souks of Bahrain, you will be enveloped by the sweet-smelling aromas of bakhoor. It is widely available in the markets and malls, with Asghar Ali and Syed Junaid Alam being popular names for bakhoor and Arabic perfumes.

Arabic perfumes are known for their strong fragrances, and the art of perfumery is deeply ingrained in Arab culture. The scented oils are carefully crafted, and the beautiful bottles they come in make them perfect souvenirs or gifts. You can find a wide range of Arabic perfumes in the souks and malls, allowing you to choose a fragrance that suits your taste.

Bahrain is also known for its exotic Persian rugs, local spices, fresh dates, and gold jewellery. The country's gold is said to be of premium quality, and you can find both modern and traditional designs. The Persian rugs, with their intricate designs and high-quality materials, are another popular item to bring back from Bahrain. The local spices, such as saffron, cumin, and cardamom, add a unique flavour to dishes and can be purchased by the kilo in the souks.

So, if you're looking for souvenirs or gifts that capture the essence of Bahrain, be sure to include bakhoor and perfumes on your shopping list. The fragrant aromas and beautifully crafted bottles will surely remind you of your time in the 'Kingdom of Perfumes'.

Dates and dried fruits

Dates are a staple of Bahraini cuisine and are commonly eaten for breakfast, as they are believed to have alkalising properties that gently prepare the digestive tract for the rest of the day. During Ramadan, locals break their fast with dates and water, and a special drink made from date juice is served during the holy month to aid digestion.

Fresh dates can be purchased directly from the farmers at the Farmers' Market, where you can expect to find a good bargain. Preserved dates are also available at organised retail stores, as well as at the souks. These come in a variety of forms, including dates coated in chocolate, and dates stuffed with almonds, lemons, or oranges. The Bateel brand, located in City Centre Bahrain, is a popular choice for preserved dates.

Aside from dates, Bahrain offers a wide range of dried fruits and nuts. These include apricots, ginger, mango, pineapple, and raisins, as well as almonds, pistachios, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Dried fruits and nuts are typically consumed as snacks or added as ingredients to desserts and various dishes.

Dried fruits and nuts can be purchased at the Muharraq or Manama souqs, where a number of shops sell these items alongside other confectionery. Lulu Hypermarket branches, found across the island, also sell dried fruits and nuts, including dried and candied ginger, pineapple, and mango. These items are sold by weight, allowing you to buy only the amount you want.

Gold and pearls

Bahrain is known as the Gulf of Pearls for good reason. The pearling industry supported the country's economy until the 1930s, and today, there are still a few shops offering local pearls.

Bahrain's gold is also said to be of premium quality. In Manama Souk, you'll find Gold City, a building full of gold shops. Here, you can buy 21- and 24-karat gold in both modern and traditional designs. You can also find contemporary styles that go with Western outfits.

If you're looking for a ready-to-wear piece, you have plenty of options. Or, for something extra special, you can request a custom-made item. Many tourists opt for a necklace with their name written in Arabic. You can also find gold jewellery studded with pearls, diamonds, and other precious gems.

If you're looking for a unique souvenir or gift, consider a piece of jewellery combining gold and pearls. A popular item is a necklace with your name written in Arabic. You can also find bracelets, rings, and pendants featuring gold and pearls.

• Gold City in Manama Souk
• Manama Souk (for pearl-studded gold jewellery)
• Al Fardan Jewellery
• Al Mahmood Pearls
• Mannai Jewellery
• Mattar Jewellers
• Moda Mall
• Gold City Mall

Pottery and rugs

Pottery

Bahraini pottery is famous for its intricate and detailed designs. The craft is part of the local culture and dates back to ancient times, passed down from generation to generation. In the traditional village of A'ali, you will find plenty of beautifully crafted pots, lamps, pitchers, coin banks, and more. The potters of A'ali create pots of virtually every size and in a wide variety of styles. Tourists usually buy the smaller pieces, which is natural considering size and weight when travelling. The most popular items with visitors are money boxes and flower vases.

Rugs

Rugs in the Middle East are famous for their intricate designs, beautiful colours, and weaving techniques. You can buy authentic rugs in most souks, along with other local homewares and antiques.

Persian rugs are a great way to add a unique touch to your home. You can shop for one in Manama souq: when you enter the Bal-al Bahrain archway, there’s a line of renovated shops. Ali Baba Cave Antiques is one of them and sells a unique collection of authentic rugs and other souvenirs like colourful mosaic lamps, wooden chests, and more. Bradran Persian Store near Gold City in Manama souq also sells authentic rugs. They have another branch in Al A’ali Mall. There are rug and souvenir shops in the KFC lane and ‘shawarma alley’ in Adliya too.

Frequently asked questions