Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, a small Arab state in the Middle East. It is situated on the northeastern tip of Bahrain Island, in the Persian Gulf. With a population of around 345,000, Manama is home to roughly a quarter to a fifth of Bahrain's population. The city has a diverse population and a rich history, having been under Portuguese and Persian control at various points in its past. Today, Manama is a modern city and an important financial hub in the Middle East, with a busy nightlife and a thriving tourism industry.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Country | Bahrain |
City | Manama |
Status | Capital and largest city of Bahrain |
Population | 143,035 (2001); 155,000 (approx.); 297,502 (approx. 2012); 345,000 (metropolitan area) |
Location | Northeastern tip of Bahrain Island, in the Persian Gulf |
History | First mentioned in Islamic chronicles c. 1345; taken by the Portuguese (1521) and by the Persians (1602); held, with brief interruptions, by the ruling Al Khalifa dynasty since 1783; became the capital of independent Bahrain in 1971 |
Economy | Sales promotion industry; financial services; tourism; pearling, fishing, boatbuilding, and import trade |
Geography | Flat and arid |
Climate | Arid; extremely hot summers and mild winters; limited rainfall |
What You'll Learn
Manama is the capital of Bahrain
Manama has a long history as an important commercial centre in the northern Persian Gulf. Historically, its economy was based on pearling, fishing, boatbuilding, and import trade. The discovery of oil in 1932 revolutionised the city's economy, and many modern buildings were constructed. Today, Manama is a trade, financial, and commercial hub, and it is the seat of numerous banks.
Manama has a busy nightlife by Gulf standards, with popular districts including Adliya, Hoora, Juffair, and the Business District. The city also boasts several important cultural sites, including the Bab Al Bahrain and the adjacent souq area, as well as the Al-Fateh Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.
Manama is the main hub of Bahrain's road network, and all roads in the country lead to the city. Taxis are expensive, but they are the primary means of getting around without renting a car. The city also has a bus service.
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It is located in the north-east of Bahrain Island
Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, with a population of around 345,000 in its metropolitan area. It is located in the north-east of Bahrain Island, in the Persian Gulf.
Manama is situated on the north-eastern tip of the main island in the Gulf. The city's central business district runs along its northern coast, where many of its important hotels, office buildings, shops and restaurants are located.
Historically, Manama has been restricted to what is now known as the Manama Souq and the Manama Fort (now the Ministry of Interior) to its south. However, the city has grown to include a number of suburban developments and older neighbouring villages.
Bahrain is an archipelago consisting of Bahrain Island and around 30 smaller islands. It is connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Fahd Causeway, a 15-mile-long highway crossing the gulf. The country's name, Bahrain, means "two seas" in Arabic.
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Manama has a population of about 345,000
Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, with a population of about 345,000. It is situated on the northeastern tip of the main island in the Persian Gulf. Manama has a long history as an important commercial centre, with a traditional economy based on pearling, fishing, boatbuilding, and import trade. Today, it is a modern city, with a diverse population and a thriving financial industry.
Manama's Central Business District is located along the northern coast of the city and is home to many important hotels, office buildings, shops, and restaurants. The city has grown and expanded over time, incorporating neighbouring villages and new suburban developments.
Manama has a busy nightlife by Gulf standards, with popular districts such as Adliya, Hoora, Juffair, and the Business District offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and pubs. The city also boasts several tourist attractions, including the Al-Fateh Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, and the Bahrain Fort Museum.
With a population of about 345,000, Manama is home to approximately one-fifth of Bahrain's total population. The city has a diverse population, with both Shia and Sunni Islam communities coexisting for centuries. Foreign-born residents make up about half of the population, with people from Iran, India, Pakistan, Britain, and the United States being the largest groups.
Manama is accessible by road, with well-constructed roads connecting the main island to other towns and villages. The city's road network has been under development to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles. Manama is also served by a bus service and is located about 11 kilometres (7 miles) from Bahrain International Airport.
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The city is known for its date palms
Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, a small nation in the Persian Gulf. It is situated on the northeastern tip of Bahrain Island and has a population of about 345,000.
The discovery of oil in the 20th century led to a decline in date palm cultivation, as the country's economy shifted towards petroleum. Despite this, Bahrain still strives to care for date palms as a state symbol and national treasure. The government has established gene banks, in vitro facilities, and quarantine regulations to protect them.
Date palms hold cultural significance in the region, and they are mentioned in both the Bible and the Quran. They are a traditional crop in the Middle East and North Africa, and their fruit is enjoyed as a dessert and used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes.
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It has a busy nightlife by Gulf standards
Manama, the capital of Bahrain, is a bustling hub of activity and a popular destination for tourists and expatriates alike. With a diverse population and a rich cultural history, Manama offers a vibrant nightlife scene that is considered busy by Gulf standards. Here is an overview of the nightlife in Manama:
Diverse Culture and Entertainment Options:
Manama has a diverse population, attracting people from all over the world. This cultural diversity is reflected in its nightlife, with a mix of different entertainment options catering to various tastes and preferences. The city has something for everyone, from traditional Arabic nightclubs featuring belly dancing and Russian performers to American-themed bars and Japanese-style lounges.
Availability of Alcohol:
Bahrain is one of the few countries in the Middle East that permits alcohol consumption. This makes it a popular destination for Americans, Europeans, and Middle Easterners alike. The availability of alcohol contributes to the lively atmosphere in Manama's clubs and bars.
Music and Live Performances:
Music is an integral part of Manama's nightlife. The city offers a variety of musical experiences, including timely concerts, music performances, and live bands. Karaoke bars and cafes are also prevalent, providing guests with the opportunity to showcase their singing talents. Additionally, DJ nights and live DJ performances are common, adding to the energetic vibe of the city's nightlife.
Fine Dining and Unique Lounges:
Manama boasts an array of fine dining options that complement its vibrant nightlife. Restaurants and lounges offer exquisite cuisines, such as Asian, Mediterranean, and Japanese delicacies. The Blue Moon Lounge, located on the 50th floor of the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, provides guests with breathtaking views of the Bahrain skyline while they enjoy a wide range of drinks and Asian cuisine.
Popular Nightclubs and Bars:
Manama is home to some of the finest nightclubs and bars in the region. Club Wrangler, for example, is a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and fun-filled experiences. Elements Pool & Lounge at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain is another renowned venue, offering a relaxing oasis in the heart of the city, complete with molecular cocktails and light bites. The city also hosts venues like Bushido, Camelot, and Coda Jazz Lounge, each offering unique themes and experiences.
Historical Context:
Historically, Manama's economy was based on pearling, fishing, boatbuilding, and import trade. However, the discovery of petroleum in 1932 revolutionized the city's economy and landscape, leading to the construction of modern buildings and the development of a thriving financial and commercial centre. This transformation laid the foundation for the vibrant nightlife scene that Manama enjoys today.
In conclusion, Manama offers a dynamic and diverse nightlife scene that caters to a wide range of audiences. With its mix of cultural influences, entertainment options, and fine dining experiences, Manama has established itself as a prominent destination for those seeking exciting adventures in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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