Bahrain’s vibrant capital, Manama, is set to come alive once more with the highly anticipated return of the Hawa Al Manama festival. Officially launched yesterday by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the second edition promises an even more immersive and extensive celebration of Bahraini culture and heritage than before. Running from December 25th, 2025, to January 15th, 2026, this flagship event of the Celebrate Bahrain season aims to significantly boost the Kingdom’s tourism sector and solidify its position as a premier family destination in the Gulf.
A Celebration of Manama’s Soul: Hawa Al Manama Festival Returns
The Hawa Al Manama festival isn’t just an event; it’s a journey through time, a sensory experience, and a testament to Bahrain’s enduring spirit. This year’s edition is the largest to date, showcasing the very best of Bahraini creativity, hospitality, and tradition. The festival’s core focus remains the historic Manama Souq, recognizing its importance as the cultural heart of the city. However, the celebrations extend far beyond the souq’s traditional boundaries, encompassing multiple iconic locations throughout Manama.
Boosting Bahrain’s Tourism Landscape
His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the festival’s crucial role in sustaining and enhancing Bahrain’s tourism sector. He highlighted its alignment with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, demonstrating the government’s commitment to diversifying the economy and promoting cultural tourism.
Her Excellency Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism and Chairperson of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), echoed this sentiment. She stated the festival is designed to attract visitors from across the GCC, Asia, and Europe, offering tailored experiences and accessible cultural programs. This strategic approach aims to increase overnight stays and further establish Bahrain as a leading destination for families. The festival is a key component of Bahrain’s broader tourism strategy, focusing on unique experiences and cultural immersion.
Exploring the Festival’s Diverse Locations
The Hawa Al Manama festival will transform several key areas of the city into vibrant hubs of activity. Each location offers a distinct flavor and a unique glimpse into Bahrain’s past and present.
- Al Khalifa Avenue and the Halwa Museum: A sweet start to the festival, celebrating Bahrain’s famous Halwa.
- Batelco Building: This location will house a diverse range of attractions, including museums, a cultural library, an exciting escape room, and a thrilling laser adventure.
- Al Tawawish Square: Immerse yourself in traditional crafts, intricate henna art, and the lively atmosphere of carnival games.
- Yateem Complex: A showcase of classic cars alongside a sophisticated rooftop fine-dining experience.
- Al Marsah Square: Step back in time with a vintage photography museum, capturing the essence of Manama’s history.
- The Oriental Neighborhood: Experience the aromatic heart of the souq, with galleries, perfume and spice markets, and authentic Eastern cuisine.
- Al Fadhel Square: Enjoy modern culinary delights and engage in friendly competition at the sports courts, and witness the revival of 3×3 basketball with Bahraini legends.
- Darb Al Manama: Discover a beautifully restored heritage building, complete with a traditional Bahraini café and distinctive cultural experiences.
- The Oriental Hotel: Indulge in an upscale Italian dining experience within a historic setting.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
Beyond the bustling markets and modern attractions, the Hawa Al Manama festival delves deep into Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage. Several landmarks have been revitalized to offer unique and engaging experiences.
- Al Zaina Complex: Transformed into a retro shopping paradise, featuring classic stores, exhibitions, vintage restaurants, and fashion inspired by the 1980s and 1990s.
- Dar Al Andaleeb: A treasure trove of antiques accompanied by the timeless melodies of Abdel Halim Hafez.
- Café Al Set: Savor traditional Bahraini drinks while enjoying the iconic music of Umm Kulthum, all within a beautifully preserved historic space.
For families, “Um Al Khadhar Wal Leef” offers an enchanting adventure rooted in Bahraini folklore. The Manama Theater, a pioneering cinema in the Arabian Gulf, will screen classic animated films and highlights from the golden age of cinema, providing a nostalgic trip for movie lovers. Visitors can also explore the Kanoo Museum, showcasing the city’s cultural and business legacy, and participate in the charming Manama Post experience, writing handwritten letters with vintage stamps. These attractions contribute to the overall cultural tourism experience.
Practical Considerations for Visitors
Organizers have prioritized visitor convenience, allocating over 4,000 parking spaces and implementing organized traffic management systems. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone attending the festival. The extensive planning reflects the commitment to making Bahrain events accessible and welcoming to both locals and tourists.
The official launch was attended by a number of senior officials, underscoring the importance of the Hawa Al Manama festival as a vibrant showcase of Bahrain’s history, culture, and burgeoning tourism industry. This event promises to be a highlight of the Celebrate Bahrain season, offering a captivating experience for all who attend and further solidifying Bahrain’s position on the global tourism map.
