Best Places To Buy Saffron In Bahrain

Saffron is widely regarded as one of the world's most expensive spices, and for good reason. Derived from the Crocus sativus flower, it is a coveted spice that has been revered for centuries due to its distinct aroma, vibrant colour, and unique flavour profile. In Bahrain, saffron is a staple in traditional dishes such as biryani, machboos, and halwa, adding depth and complexity to these savoury and sweet dishes alike. While Bahrain does not produce saffron due to its climate, there are still plenty of places to purchase it. From traditional spice shops (souqs) to supermarkets and online retailers, here is a guide to help you navigate where to buy saffron in Bahrain.

Online saffron suppliers in Bahrain

Ana Qayen

Ana Qayen is one of the largest saffron suppliers in Bahrain and the world. They offer saffron in various quantities, ranging from 5 grams to 500 grams, with free shipping on selected wholesale orders. The company is based in Ghaenat, Iran, which is known as the capital of saffron in the world due to its ideal climatic conditions and soil for saffron cultivation. Ana Qayen provides saffron in different packaging options, including gift boxes, and ships worldwide without any quantity limits. They also offer other Iranian products such as pistachios, rosebuds, Mazafati dates, and barberry.

Al-Hamadiya Market

Located in the heart of Manama, Al-Hamadiya Market is a vibrant marketplace that offers a wide selection of spices and culinary delights. Among their offerings is Mongra saffron, sourced from reputable suppliers. The market features competitive prices, with discounts available for bulk purchases, and provides a diverse range of packaging options to suit different needs.

Spice Souq

The Spice Souq in the historic district of Muharraq is a paradise for spice lovers. Visitors can find an array of beautifully displayed spices, including both Mongra and Kashmiri saffron sourced from local and international suppliers. The Spice Souq offers reasonable prices and flexible packaging options, allowing visitors to sample and purchase saffron and other exotic spices within their budget.

Manama Spice Market

The Manama Spice Market, located in the bustling capital city of Manama, boasts a diverse selection of saffron products, including fresh saffron threads and premium saffron spice sourced from trusted producers. Prices vary depending on saffron type and grade, catering to different budgets. The market also offers expedited shipping services to ensure prompt delivery and maintain saffron freshness.

Online Retailers

In addition to the marketplaces mentioned above, there are online retailers that offer saffron for purchase in Bahrain. These include Taj Mahal Saffron, available on the Lulu Hypermarket website, and Kazbro, which offers Khayam Saffron sourced from Iran in 1g, 3g, and 5g quantities. Another option is Bahrain Dalla For Food Factory Co., which provides saffron in 100g and 200g bottles.

Saffron in Riffa

Saffron is widely regarded as one of the world's most expensive spices, and in Bahrain, it is a beloved ingredient used in both sweet and savoury dishes. While saffron is not produced in Bahrain, the country's vibrant spice markets and bustling souks offer a wide selection of high-quality saffron sourced from around the world.

In Riffa, a historic district of Bahrain, saffron enthusiasts will find a hidden gem in the Spice Bazaar. This bazaar offers a curated selection of saffron products, including fragrant saffron threads and all-red saffron spice of the highest calibre. The prices at the Riffa Spice Bazaar are competitive, making premium saffron accessible to all. The bazaar's knowledgeable staff provide a personalised service, ensuring a satisfying shopping experience for Bahraini consumers. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, the Riffa Spice Bazaar provides a wide range of saffron options to suit every taste and preference.

In addition to the Spice Bazaar, there are other options for purchasing saffron in Riffa. Traditional spice shops (souqs) and modern supermarkets offer convenient purchase options. Online retailers, such as Lulu Bahrain, also provide delivery services for saffron and other spices.

When buying saffron in Riffa, it is important to consider the quality and source of the spice. High-quality saffron is characterised by vibrant red threads, a potent aroma, and a complex flavour profile. Reputable suppliers may offer expedited shipping and specialised packaging to protect the delicate saffron threads, ensuring that the product arrives fresh and flavourful.

Saffron in Manama

Saffron, the world's most expensive spice, is widely available in Manama, Bahrain. The city offers a variety of options for those looking to buy saffron, from traditional souqs to modern supermarkets. Here is a guide to help you find and purchase saffron in Manama.

Where to Buy Saffron in Manama

When it comes to buying saffron in Manama, there are several reputable options to choose from:

• Al-Hamadiya Market: Nestled in the heart of Manama, Al-Hamadiya Market is a vibrant marketplace known for its wide selection of spices and culinary delights. Here, you can find various saffron varieties, including the prized Mongra saffron sourced from reputable suppliers. The market offers competitive prices, with discounts available for bulk purchases.
• Al Muntazah Market: Located in Manama, this market is renowned for its diverse array of spices and culinary delights. It is a popular destination for purchasing saffron and other exotic spices.
• Manama Spice Market: This bustling market in the capital city of Manama offers a diverse selection of saffron products, including fresh saffron threads and premium saffron spice sourced from trusted producers. The prices vary depending on the type and grade of saffron, catering to different budgets. They also provide expedited shipping services to ensure prompt delivery and optimal freshness.
• Online retailers: Websites like luluhypermarket.com offer saffron for sale, such as the Taj Mahal Saffron brand, which can be conveniently purchased online and delivered to your doorstep.
• Supermarkets: For convenience, you can also find saffron in supermarkets in Manama. While the selection may be more limited, it provides an easy option for those looking for small quantities or last-minute purchases.

Tips for Buying Saffron in Manama

When purchasing saffron in Manama, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Quality: Saffron is available in different grades and forms, so focus on buying high-quality saffron with fresh, vibrant red threads, a potent aroma, and a complex flavour profile. Reputable suppliers in Manama prioritize expedited shipping and specialized packaging to maintain saffron's freshness and potency during importation.
• Variety: In Manama, you will predominantly find two main varieties of saffron: Mongra saffron and Kashmiri saffron. Mongra saffron is known for its long, thick threads and intense flavour, while Kashmiri saffron is renowned for its delicate aroma and slightly milder taste.
• Price: The price of saffron in Bahrain can vary depending on its quality, origin, and market demand. The Mongra variety, for example, commands a premium price due to its purity and potency. Buying in bulk may also get you a better deal, as some vendors offer discounts for larger purchases.
• Souqs: Traditional spice shops (souqs) in Manama offer a wider selection of saffron and other spices. Exploring these souqs can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture while finding high-quality saffron at competitive prices.

Remember to buy saffron from reputable sources and check the packaging for indications of purity and origin. With these tips in mind, you are well on your way to finding and purchasing saffron in Manama, Bahrain.

Saffron in Muharraq

Saffron is a highly sought-after spice in Bahrain, adding a unique flavour and aroma to both sweet and savoury dishes. While Bahrain does not produce saffron due to its climate, the country's vibrant spice markets and souks offer a wide selection of high-quality saffron sourced from around the world.

In the historic district of Muharraq, spice enthusiasts can explore the Spice Souq, a paradise for those seeking authentic flavours and aromas. Here, visitors will find an array of beautifully displayed spices, including saffron in its various forms. The Spice Souq is located in narrow alleyways, evoking a sense of nostalgia with its bustling stalls. The saffron available includes both the prized Mongra saffron, known for its long crimson threads and intense flavour, and the Kashmiri saffron, renowned for its delicate aroma and slightly milder taste. Vendors offer flexible packaging options to suit different budgets and preferences, and visitors can also sample other exotic spices and herbs.

For a trendy take on traditional Bahraini dishes, Saffron by Jena Bakery in the old city of Muharraq is a popular choice. This restaurant serves local dishes like machboos, balaleet, and karak tea in a surprisingly modern setting. The portions are generous, and the food is both delicious and reasonably priced. It is a great place to stop for breakfast after a stroll through Muharraq, but be aware that it can get very crowded on weekends.

Saffron in traditional souqs

Saffron, the world's most expensive spice, is widely available in Bahrain's traditional souqs. The country's vibrant spice markets and bustling souks offer a wide selection of high-quality saffron sourced from around the world.

In the heart of Manama, Al-Hamadiya Market is a treasure trove of exotic spices and culinary delights. Here, you can find a wide selection of saffron varieties, including the prized Mongra saffron sourced from reputable suppliers. The market's vibrant atmosphere and friendly vendors create a welcoming environment for shoppers seeking premium spices at affordable prices. Al-Hamadiya Market offers various packaging options for Mongra saffron, from small packets to larger quantities suited for commercial use. Vendors also offer discounts for bulk purchases, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to buy in larger quantities.

For those seeking an authentic spice shopping experience, the Spice Souq in the historic district of Muharraq is the perfect destination. This traditional marketplace evokes a sense of nostalgia with its narrow alleyways and bustling stalls, reminiscent of the bygone era of spice trading. Here, you can find both Mongra and Kashmiri varieties of saffron sourced directly from local and international suppliers. The vendors offer reasonable prices and flexible packaging options to suit different budgets and preferences. The Spice Souq also provides an opportunity to sample other exotic spices and herbs, making it a haven for spice enthusiasts.

In the capital city of Manama, the Spice Market is a go-to destination for spice enthusiasts seeking fragrant saffron and other exotic spices. This market offers a diverse selection of saffron products, including fresh saffron threads and premium saffron spice sourced from trusted producers. The prices vary depending on the saffron type and grade, ensuring that there is something for every budget. The Manama Spice Market also offers expedited shipping services to guarantee prompt delivery and maintain the freshness of the saffron.

Lastly, tucked away in the historic district of Riffa, the Spice Bazaar is a hidden gem for spice aficionados. This bazaar offers a curated selection of saffron products, including fragrant saffron threads and all-red saffron spice of the highest calibre. The prices at the Riffa Spice Bazaar are competitive, making premium saffron more accessible. The knowledgeable staff and personalised service ensure a satisfying shopping experience, whether you are a local cook or a visiting foodie.

Frequently asked questions