Damon Mcknight
Bahrain is known for its date palms and delicious dates. Dates are considered the elixir of the Middle East and are a popular food item in Bahrain, offering excellent health benefits such as aiding digestion. Dates are widely available in Bahrain and can be purchased in various forms, including fresh, preserved, or stuffed with nuts, lemon, almonds, or oranges. They can also be coated in chocolate or made into date jams. The best places to buy dates in Bahrain include traditional markets, farmer's markets, and specialised shops. Manama Central Market, Souq Waqif, and Muharraq Souq are popular choices for buying fresh, raw dates, while Bateel, Tamarat, Nabtat Ali, and Al Sarhan Dates are known for their quality and variety of dates.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Popular Date Sellers | Bateel, Tamarat, Nabtat Ali, Al Sarhan Dates, Manama Central Market |
| Types of Dates | Fresh, Raw, Dried, Chocolate-Covered, Walnut-Filled, Almond-Filled, Lemon-Filled, Orange-Filled, Canned, Jam |
| Markets | Souq Waqif, Souq Al Manama, Muharraq Souq, Al Qusayrya Market, Manama Souq, Gold Souq, Gold City Mall, Moda Mall, The Avenues, Seef Mall |
Manama Souq
The souq offers a wide range of goods, from spices, jewellery, and gold items to colourful textiles, handicrafts, and rugs. It is a great place to find souvenirs, with several shops selling traditional crafts, including woven baskets and rugs. For those looking for a more modern shopping experience, there are also department stores and malls within the souq.
The Manama Souq has been redeveloped, and it is now divided into a new part and an old part. The new section is pedestrianised, while the old area has roads for cars and walkways for pedestrians. The redevelopment also included the addition of new wooden roofs and cafes, designed by His Majesty, which opened around the site in 2013.
The souq is a melting pot of cultures, with a variety of languages spoken and a diverse range of goods on offer. It evokes the atmosphere of an ancient souq, with its bustling streets and narrow alleyways. It is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the traditional market life of Bahrain.
In addition to shopping, the Manama Souq also offers traditional coffee shops and local cuisine. It is a great place to try authentic Bahraini food and interact with locals. With its red brick facade and fortress-like build, the souq also showcases the history and tradition of Bahraini architecture, featuring palm trees, torches, and water features.
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Manama Central Market
The Manama Central Market is a vital part of Manama's shopping culture. Strategically located in the city centre, it spans 0.56 kilometres near Mīnā’ al Manāmah. This 40-year-old market is a convenient spot for both locals and visitors, offering a variety of local and imported goods.
The main hall is primarily dedicated to fresh fruit and vegetables, with a bustling, diverse crowd of locals doing their shopping. The market also has a distinctive fish section located in a separate building in the northwestern corner, known for its aromatic offerings.
In addition to basic groceries, the market offers a variety of local crafts and souvenirs, providing a traditional shopping experience in contrast to the modern malls that dominate Manama.
The Central Market is not just a shopping destination; it is also a crucial hub for the distribution of food and goods across Bahrain, reinforcing its status as one of the kingdom's largest and most significant markets.
At the Manama Central Market, you can find fresh, raw dates, as well as a variety of other produce and goods. It is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and shop alongside the Manama community.
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Muharraq Souq
If you're looking to buy dates in Bahrain, one of the best places to visit is Muharraq Souq. This atmospheric old Bahraini bazaar is located in the heart of Muharraq city and offers a rich cultural experience along with a wide variety of traditional shops and stalls.
For those interested in architecture, Muharraq Souq presents a blend of old and new. The historic trading hub of Souq Al Qaysariya, located near the southern end of Muharraq Souq, has undergone extensive restoration and redevelopment, preserving the unique architecture of the area. The main Qaysariyah Suq Street is lined with shops selling local fashions, jewellery, art, and handicrafts.
When visiting Muharraq Souq, it is recommended to take a cab to avoid parking challenges, especially during weekends. With its blend of culture, tradition, and delicious treats, Muharraq Souq is a must-visit destination when in Bahrain.
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Al Qusayrya Market
Al Qusayrya is famous for its sale of natural pearls that are radiographically certified. However, it also offers a range of other products, including spices, clothes, and traditional items. The market has a selection of lovely cafes where you can sit and enjoy a bite of local cuisine.
The market is a great place to visit if you want to experience the local culture and do some shopping. It is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into Bahrain's history and traditional marketplace. With its combination of shopping, food, and cultural significance, Al Qusayrya Market is a must-visit destination when in Bahrain.
In addition to the Al Qusayrya Market, there are several other famous markets in Bahrain, such as Souq Waqif, Souq Al Manama, and Muharraq Souq, where you can find a variety of goods, including dates, spices, jewellery, and handicrafts.
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Gold City Mall
Gold City is the largest gold market in Bahrain, where shoppers can find gold and silver jewellery, diamonds, pearls, and old coins. The gold sold here is of very good quality, and bargaining is common and often necessary. The mall features shops from different brands, making it easy for shoppers to compare prices and negotiate deals. It is recommended that visitors take the time to walk around and explore the various options before settling on a purchase.
In addition to its gold offerings, Gold City Mall also has shops selling sunglasses, watches, rugs, scarves, and other accessories. The mall is air-conditioned and has two floors, making it a comfortable place to browse even during the hottest times of the day. It is located in the heart of Manama and is easily accessible. However, parking can be challenging during peak hours, so visitors may prefer to take a cab to avoid any hassle.
Gold City is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in jewellery, precious stones, or simply looking for a unique shopping experience in Bahrain. The mall offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary designs, making it a great place to find a special souvenir or gift. Whether you are in the market for gold, diamonds, or just browsing, Gold City Mall is sure to impress with its dazzling displays and skilled craftsmanship.
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Frequently asked questions
Dates can be bought from all top marketplaces in Bahrain. Fresh dates are best bought from farmers, where you can bargain and get a good price. You can also find them in the villages, at market stalls, or in the Manama Central Market.
Dates in Bahrain come in many varieties, including chocolate-covered, walnut-filled, almond-filled, and lemon and orange-filled dates.
Yes, there are a few shops in Bahrain that specialise in selling dates. These include Bateel, Tamarat, Nabtat Ali, and Al Sarhan Dates.
Bahrain is known for its gold and pearl jewellery, perfumes, Bakhoor (scented wood chips), Persian rugs, Abayas, and local spices. You can find these items in the souks and markets of Manama, Muharraq, and Hamad Town.
