Marriott Executive Apartments Manama, Bahrain

Housed in a building spectacularly engraved with Arabic script, Beit al Quran (House of Quran) showcases a fascinating collection of Quranic manuscripts as well as a library of over 50,000 books written in Arabic, English, and French that center mostly on Islam. Manuscripts dating back to the 7th century as well as Qurans written on parchment, rice, peas, and grains are among the impressive collection. It is claimed to be the only institute in the world devoted to the Quran. The building also houses a mosque, an auditorium, a madrasa (religious school), a museum, and hosts a variety of art exhibitions.

The Bu Maher Fort Visitor’s Center is the starting point to discovering more about the Pearling Path that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The center contains a three-dimensional display that guides the viewer though the history of the path and the houses which formed it from the early beginnings to the main pearling traders. Bu Maher Fort, which was built in 1840, is steeped in seafaring and pearling history and forms the first stop in the historical pearling path having once served as the main fishing harbor and gateway to and from the sea. The visitor’s center can be accessed via the sea by boats that depart from Bahrain’s National Museum harbor and soon a pedestrian bridge will allow access as well.

Even if you are not a motor racing fan you will be caught up in the thrill and excitement of the planet’s biggest racing event, Formula One, that has been an annual part of Bahrain’s sporting scene since April 2004. Bahrain’s Grand Prix made history as the first Formula One Grand Prix to be held in the Middle East and was awarded the “Best Organized Grand Prix” by FIA. Even when Formula One is not taking center stage at the Bahrain International Circuit, visitors can take the wheel themselves on its state-of-the-art karting track or enjoy a thrilling ride in the passenger seat of a Hummer on its Extreme 4x4 course. Of course, a visit to the circuit is a must so as not to miss the opportunity to test drive a race car on the F-1 track itself.

One of the first museums in the Gulf, the Bahrain National Museum opened in 1988. The site itself, on the edge of the sea, is a tremendous attraction, adding to its contemporary ambience which is influenced by the white travertine façade and dramatic courtyard decorated with contemporary sculptures. The exhibition halls showcase artefacts uncovered in the numerous archaeological sites in Bahrain and underpinning the longstanding history of the island. The rich collection covers 6000 years of Bahrain’s history. In addition to the archaeological exhibits, two halls are dedicated to local customs and traditions, featuring clothing, housing, rituals and traditional crafts. Moreover, the art hall features a permanent collection of works by some of Bahrain’s leading artists as well as regularly hosting temporary exhibitions. Adjacent to the National Museum can be seen the Art Centre and Cultural Hall, both of which host temporary exhibitions and concerts throughout the year. A new addition to this cultural compound is the recently inaugurated Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage.

Al Dar Island is the nearest island getaway to Bahrain. It offers beautiful beaches and a variety of facilities, such as palm leaf huts, tents, or chalets, and a restaurant offering delicious dishes and refreshing drinks. Visitors to the island can also enjoy pearl dives and cruises to the stunning Jarada Island which affords one the opportunity to see up to 30 different types of coral, more than 200 species of fish, and the chance to watch the always delightful dolphins.