The Old Manama Suq is preparing to welcome a revitalised cultural season as Hawa Al Manama is set to take over the historic district next month.
The initiative, from December 25 to January 15, aims to highlight the capital’s deep-rooted heritage and transform the suq into a vibrant hub of arts, culture and entertainment for residents and visitors alike.
The event forms part of broader efforts to re-energise the iconic market by showcasing its traditional crafts, historic architecture, street life and diverse culinary scene.
According to Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) marketing and promotion adviser Eman Al Alawi, the objective is to raise the profile of Manama Suq and improve footfall.
Ms Al Alawi, right, with Ms Tawfiqi
She noted that the target is to attract 300,000 visitors during the 20-day programme, with events running 5pm to 10pm on weekdays and 5pm to midnight on weekends.
Ms Al Alawi said the festival is designed to appeal to a wide audience – GCC tourists, families, youth and other visitors seeking nostalgic and cultural experiences. The programme aims to blend the past and present, strengthening community ties to Bahrain’s historical and social identity.
The festival map spans several locations across Al Khalifa Avenue, Tijjar Avenue, Al Tawawish Square and key buildings such as the Bank Building, Batelco Building, Yateem Centre and Kanoo Museum.
Visitors will encounter a sequence of artistic and experiential installations including:
- Art and Light Installations
- Interactive Exhibitions and an Art Space for Workshops
- A Time Capsule Maze
- Activating Empty Shops for Creative Uses
- Vintage Clothing Shops and Antiques Market
- Bahraini Sweets Museum
- Al Fareej Orchestra Theatre
- Cafés and local shops revived with new foot traffic
- Key heritage structures such as the Fakhro House, Ahmadi House and the Oriental Hotel Square will be incorporated into the programming to reinforce the suq’s connection to its architectural legacy.
To accommodate the anticipated surge in attendance, authorities are co-ordinating with several government bodies to improve mobility and safety.
A pedestrian bridge linking Bahrain Financial Harbour to Manama will enhance access points, while shuttle buses, golf carts for individuals with special needs, and efforts to secure as many parking areas as possible are underway. A mechanism for valet parking is being looked into to avoid any traffic disruption such service may cause.
The organisers are working closely with the Interior Ministry, while Civil Defence and the National Ambulance will maintain emergency readiness throughout the event. Temporary facilities – including toilet cabins and toilet maintenance services across participating malls – will support the increased visitor flow. A designated prayer area will also be available.
Efforts include new electronic signs, visibility on Avenues Mall screens, and a commitment to ensure smooth entry and exit by closing sections of the area to vehicles where necessary – a lesson learned from last year’s open-layout model.
Marketing for Hawa Al Manama is expected to be extensive. Campaigns promoting the event will appear across GCC airports and through Bahrain’s five international tourism promotion offices in the UK, India, China, France and Germany.
BTEA head of tourism relations Reem Tawfiqi confirmed that New Year’s Eve fireworks will take place in the Heart of Manama, adding that the premium viewing location will be announced next week. She noted that only five days overlap with Muharraq Nights, and co-ordination is already in place.
Mr Tarradah
During the Capital Trustees Board meeting, chairman Saleh Tarradah described the project as ambitious, while acknowledging that issues such as parking and overall organisation require careful management. Plans are actively being refined to ensure the event’s smooth execution.
“With an expanded programme, enhanced infrastructure and strong institutional backing, Hawa Al Manama is set to deliver a renewed experience that captures the essence of Manama’s storied suq – where history, culture and modern creativity meet in the heart of the capital,” said Mr Tarradah.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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