The popular Manama Souq is getting a facelift, and traders are eager to support the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority’s initiatives to boost commercial activity and tourism. Outdoor cinema and tours for visitors are among the new possible activities being considered. The BTEA has been working with stakeholders in the market since early this year to breathe new life into the centuries-old landmark.
The market, located in the heart of Bahrain’s capital city, has long been a popular destination for gulf air travelers and locals alike. The revitalization project aims to make the Manama Souq an even more attractive destination for visitors, with the ultimate goal of boosting tourism in Bahrain.
The traders at the Manama Souq are excited about the potential new activities that could bring even more visitors to the market. The BTEA is committed to working with all stakeholders to make the Manama Souq a premier tourist destination in Bahrain.
“The Manama Souq is an important landmark for Bahrain and its history, and we are working with all stakeholders to breathe new life into it,” said Dr Mansoor bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, CEO of the BTEA.
“We’ve been working with local merchants and other stakeholders to find new methods to engage tourists and make the region a more appealing destination for both visitors and residents. There is broad agreement that the rehabilitation project will continue, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to produce a comprehensive strategy for the region.”
The BTEA has been working on a comprehensive strategy for the region alongside the Manama Souq Traders Association. The traders are ready to support projects that would enhance knowledge of the history, significance, and economic effect of Bahraini souqs, which have long served as key commercial centers in Bahrain.
“The Manama Souq is one of the world’s oldest and most well-known established commercial meccas, having hosted trading operations for over 1,000 years. It has weathered wars, natural calamities, and downturns in the economy. It expands with each stage of development “Chairman of the Manama Suq Traders Association, Shaikh Faisal bin Jagtop Ghuraibeh.
“All stakeholders are offering their abilities to enhance tourism and business in Bahrain, which pleases the traders. The redevelopment project is designed to enhance economic activity across the country by attracting more tourists to the Manama Souq.”
“We are enthusiastic about the revival of this important landmark in Manama, which will boost Bahrain’s tourism and commercial activities and create jobs for Bahrainis. We have already identified several new activities that could be included in the revitalization project. We look forward to working with all stakeholders on this important initiative,” said Shaikh Faisal bin Jagtop Ghuraibeh.
The BTEA is committed to working with all stakeholders in the market to develop plans that will breathe new life into the Manama Souq and make it even more attractive for visitors worldwide.
“The Manama Souq will be an important part of Bahrain’s entertainment and tourism scene. We think it has a lot of promise. We’re working with all parties to enhance awareness of this historic site “Chairman of the Old Manama Souq Committee, Riyadh Al Mahroos.
“We are proud of this ancient market, which has established itself as one of Bahrain’s most prominent landmarks. We want to see the Manama Souq expand under the leadership of its present traders, and we’re excited to figure out how to raise tourist awareness of its importance to Bahraini business and tourism.”
The BTEA is also organizing significant events that will include some of Lebanon’s and other nations’ top performers. The Manama Souq is becoming a hub for cultural exchange and will be an important stop for visitors to Bahrain.
Innovation and new technologies include an outdoor cinema, where visitors can enjoy several shows under the stars. The BTEA has also planned tours of the Manama Souq via tram and on foot, which will make it even easier for visitors to explore the area.
“We have been working closely with stakeholders in the market and are committed to continuing our efforts to breathe new life into this historic landmark,” said Shaikh Faisal bin Jagtop Ghuraibeh of the Manama Souq Traders Association.
“We’re working with the BTEA and other stakeholders to figure out how to provide tourists an engaging method to learn about the history of this historic site. “The Manama Suq is one of the oldest continuously operated marketplaces globally, and we are committed to preserving its historical heritage while also bringing it into a new era as an attractive destination for both visitors and locals.”
Key Notes on History
The Manama Souq has been a famous location for travelers from all over the world for over 1,000 years. It’s considered one of the oldest continuously operated marketplaces globally, with activities dating back at least 1,100 years.
Bahrain’s Manama Souq is an ancient trading center that dates back more than 1,000 years. The area which became Manama Souq was first established by the Kufa tribe of the Quraysh tribe of Mecca in the early 7th century. King Abdul Qadir Muhammed Ibn Muhammad Ibn Qadir al-Jabiri participated in a trade fair in 994 AD. There are references to it being a trading center during the Abbasid period around 1150 AD.
The Early Modern Period marked this traditional marketplace as a precursor to modern commerce and markets, featuring a permanent bazaar with stores selling various goods.
The Manama Souq is home to some of the oldest gold, jewelry and carpet shops in the Kingdom. These shops have been operating for centuries, and visitors can still see them in their original locations. Visitors can also find traditional handicrafts and spices not available anywhere else in Bahrain.
The Manama Souq is now a popular destination for locals and visitors to Bahrain who enjoy browsing its many shops and beautiful golden carpets from the area. Visitors can also enjoy live performances in the open-air cinema at night. There are also traditional restaurants, cafes, food and coffee shops all within walking distance of the Manama Souq