Shahd Alhamdan
Saudi Gazette

Bahrain offers relaxation, charming weather, many places to visit, a great location, and with the “Shop Bahrain” shopping festival happening right now, many Gulf families are visiting the island nation.

Shop Bahrain project director, Nawaf Al Koheji, said eight million tourists from Gulf visit every year, with tourists from the Kingdom ranking first, then Kuwait and Qatar.

What makes Bahrain more special this month for tourists is the ‘Shop Bahrain’ festival, which runs until January 23.

Saudi Gazette has found the malls, shops, and locations to visit during the festival.

Haji Restaurant

One place that families can enjoy their breakfast is at Haji Restaurant in Manama, just steps from Bad Al Bahrain. This restaurant has served Bahraini traditional food for 55 years, and at a great price. People will enjoy experiencing Bahrain’s traditional culture. After finishing their breakfast, guests can go for a walk in the old souk and have the chance to buy traditional dresses and other goods.

Layali Zaman

Layali Zaman is an Egyptian restaurant that is located in East Corniche in Manama. Visitors can eat delicious Egyptian dishes on a small budget. The recommended dish at this restaurant is the Koshari.

Choices Restaurant

Choices is an international restaurant in Art Rotana Amwaj that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a buffet style, with favorite dishes from an extensive à la carte menu.

The lagoon

The lagoon is another place in Amwaj Island that families can enjoy in the evening. People can choose to eat in one of the Arab restaurants, or in one of the many cafes that serve international dishes. Bikes are available for children and visitors to rent and use around the lagoon. The venue also offers indoor and outdoor entertainment, cultural events, and more.

Seef Mall

Seef Mall is the second largest mall in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and has restaurants and cafes that will suit all tastes. During the festival, discount sales at the mall reach 40 percent off. The Seef Mall is directly connected to Fraser Suites at the western end of the mall.

Al Aali Shopping Complex

At Al Aali tourists can enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes, or roam the many shops that are part of the shopping festival. The mall is one of the biggest in Manama, and at this year’s festival there is an ice skating rink outside. The ‘VIVA Shop Skate’ is open throughout the week and also features a market during the weekends, creating a unique experience for the public.

Moda Mall

Moda Mall is a must-visit mall during the festival. Guests will not only have the chance to shop at the mall’s famous luxury stores, as well as stores from several Saudi and Gulf designers, but will also have the chance to enjoy the various activities on offer during the festival, such as Oud recitals. Moda Mall is located in the landmark Bahrain World Trade Center.