The scents of the desert
It's impossible to leave Bahrain without being tempted by its fragrances. The art of oud - a resinous sandalwood whose distillation produces a fragrant essential oil - has been mastered by Bahraini perfumers for centuries. Highly prized throughout the Arabian Peninsula, oud is deeply rooted in the culture of the archipelago. Each family has its own recipe, handed down from generation to generation, and it is generously sprinkled on religious festivals and grand receptions.
In Manama's perfume shops, this dark nectar with woody and animal notes can be bought neat or blended. The secret of the composition is jealously guarded, blending amber, rose, saffron or white musk. The Bab al Bahrain souk is packed with small boutiques run by noses who create bespoke fragrances on the spot.
Bakhoor, wood shavings soaked in perfume, is burned in brass censers: an ancestral gesture that Bahrainis still perpetuate on a daily basis to perfume the home or welcome a guest.
Dates like jewels
Another emblem of the kingdom: the date. A sacred fruit in the Middle East, dates are omnipresent in Bahrain: in markets, in homes, even in hotels, where they are offered to you with cardamom coffee as soon as you arrive. There are countless varieties: Khalas, Khunaizi, Barhi... each with its own texture, color and aroma.
On the stalls, they come natural or filled - with walnuts, candied oranges or ginger. Some are even infused with rose or clove. In summer, they are eaten fresh; in winter, they are enjoyed dried. The most prized dates come from the royal palm groves. To buy them, visit Bateel, which sells these rare fruits in magnificent wooden boxes, veritable objets d'orfèvrerie. A gourmet souvenir that's easy to transport.
The latest natural pearls
For centuries, Bahrain was the world's center for natural pearls. Before the discovery of hydrocarbons in the Persian Gulf, more than 30,000 divers plied its waters in search of these exceptionally lustrous stones. Bahraini pearls are renowned for their purity, although most are irregular. Perfectly shaped dana pearls are highly prized.
Today, although pearl fishing has all but disappeared, the State jealously guards this heritage. It is even forbidden to export raw pearl oysters. In Manama, numerous jewellers offer creations adorned with genuine natural pearls, mounted in rings, pendants or earrings. Prices vary according to size and brilliance, but each purchase is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. For enthusiasts, boat trips are even available to relive the experience of fishermen of yesteryear.
Craftsmanship and design: local chic
In Bahrain, handicrafts are still very much alive. In the village of Bani Jamra, weavers perpetuate sadu, a traditional art of weaving with geometric motifs. Palm trees are used to make baskets, hats and fans, which are sold in souks and craft markets.
In the Al Jasra handicraft center or around the Muharraq souk, you can also discover contemporary creations inspired by this heritage. Hand-poured candles, refined ceramics, linocut printed stationery, embroidered cushions with modernized Islamic motifs... Young Bahraini designers, often graduates from London or Dubai, are reinventing traditions with a modern twist. Such is the case of the Naseem brand, which blends Scandinavian design with local materials, or Lulwa Al Khalifa, an artist who transforms Bahraini pearls into jewelry worthy of works of art.
Traditional clothing: elegance and symbols
While Bahrainis often dress in Western style, traditional garments remain highly prized. For women, the jalabiya - a long, flowing dress, often embroidered with gold or colorful threads - is available in extravagant versions for traditional festivities or more discreet versions for everyday wear. These loose-fitting, comfortable dresses are especially popular for religious celebrations and weddings. The finest pieces are sold in Muharraq's boutiques or in the souk's workshops, where some seamstresses still embroider models by hand.
As for the men, they wear the thobe, a long white tunic made of cotton or linen, accompanied by a headdress called a ghutra (white or red checked), held in place by a black agal. Modern versions are available in department stores or from specialist tailors, who offer made-to-measure thobes. Ideal for hot weather.
A little Bahrain in the kitchen
When it comes to spices, Bahrain has inherited its position as a commercial crossroads between India and the Arab world. Spices from the subcontinent are everywhere, and many stores in the Manama souk offer typical blends: baharat, made from cinnamon, pepper and cardamom, or haleem, for simmered dishes. Date syrup, used as a natural sweetener, flavors pastries or blends with olive oil to accompany salads. Black tea with cardamom, a true national beverage, is sold in bags or in bulk.
Another curiosity not to be missed is the Bahraini halwa, a gelatinous confection served at weddings or during Ramadan. Its texture and flavors (rosewater, walnuts, saffron) are reminiscent of Turkish delight. The most famous are made in Muharraq, in family-run workshops.
Practical tips
In the souks, bargaining is part of the ritual, especially for jewelry and handicrafts. However, beware of counterfeits: some so-called "natural" pearls are in fact mother-of-pearl cultivated on farms abroad. Always ask for a certificate of authenticity for natural pearls.
As for perfumes, choose sturdy or well-protected vials, especially if you plan to carry them in your checked luggage. Food products are generally authorized for export, provided they are hermetically packaged. As for heavier items, such as furniture, some stores offer international shipping.
