A young Bahraini photographer has transformed her Instagram page into a visual time capsule, documenting the kingdom’s, streets, neighbourhoods, playgrounds and parks while preserving the memories attached to them.
Sara Almajthoob, 21, from Riffa, photographs places that shaped her adventurous childhood, capturing familiar corners of Bahrain that evoke nostalgia not only for her, but also for many who grew up exploring them.
Her collection spans landmarks and neighbourhoods across the kingdom, from the Sakhir desert, where families traditionally gather for winter camping trips, to Al Hunainiya playground, a cherished spot she still visits today.
Among the beautiful images featured on her page is a photograph of a baker preparing fresh bread, a scene inspired by a long-standing family tradition.
“Starting a year ago, my family began trying out a new bakery together every Thursday,” Ms Almajthoob, a University of Bahrain student studying English literature and linguistics, told the GDN. “Eventually, I started going with them and photographing these experiences.”
What began as a weekly outing soon became an opportunity to explore different parts of Bahrain, taking her to places such as Malkiya, Sitra, Hamad Town and Riffa while building a collection of images rooted in everyday life.
Another photograph was taken during a photowalk organised by art group Dar Amana as part of Muharraq Nights.
Tasked with documenting the walk for social media, Ms Almajthoob noticed a man standing outside a shop dressed in traditional clothing, a cigarette in his hand, and instinctively raised her camera.
“I don’t even think he realised how perfect his portrait turned out, and it was very spontaneous,” she recalled.
Beyond improving her photography skills, Ms Almajthoob said the experience gave her an opportunity to interact with people who live and work in the area – something she considers more meaningful than simply taking photographs.
A third photograph was taken at a sweets stall on Malkiya Beach, where locals often stop to buy traditional treats and other goods.
“I had not been to the area in a while, and my nephew and I were both enamoured by the colours and items,” she said. “Since he is a toddler, of course he was fascinated by the sweets, but for me, it just looked so beautiful.”
The visit became another moment she wanted to preserve.
“We stayed on the beach until sunset, and it is a beautiful memory. Not because of the sun and ocean, but because of the friends and family enjoying themselves and children playing football.”
Ms Almajthoob began taking photographs at the age of 16, and much of her work has since become a reflection of everyday life and her experiences growing up in a traditional Bahraini family.
“I initially borrowed a friend’s camera whenever I had the opportunity before receiving my first digital camera (Sony zv-1f) as a graduation gift from my parents,” she said, adding that the camera quickly became a prized possession before she recently upgraded to a Fujifilm xt30.
As her interest in photography grew, she also realised that capturing a meaningful moment mattered more than achieving perfection.
“The only way to actually get it right was to go out, experiment, make mistakes and, most importantly, have fun,” she added.
She now encourages young people to pursue their interests without being held back by self-doubt.
“Creativity and community can bring you so far. It is never too late to start something new,” she said. “And most importantly, you do not need to have expensive equipment to start.”
For Ms Almajthoob, photography is also a way of encouraging young Bahrainis to look closer at the places around them and appreciate the stories they hold.
“Travelling and exploring new places is fun and essential, but it is also important to acknowledge the beauty and history of your own country,” she said. “I aim to shed a bigger light on the cultural side of the kingdom because I find it to be the most beautiful part about my country, and I want that saved forever.”
To see more of Ms Almajthoob’s work, follow her on Instagram at @saraalmajthoob.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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