Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, has a true one-thousand-and-one-nights vibe. Wander through the small streets of this authentic part of Bahrain and discover an ancient castle and antique mosque with a minaret made of clay. The traditional houses display beautifully decorated doors and wind catchers that blow in the breeze. Visit nostalgic sweet shops and tea houses where Bahrainis relax with a hookah pipe wearing their traditional dishdasha robes.
Today Bahrain is a prosperous and strategically located business centre, and before any oil was found it was a peaceful and solitary island state. The locals made a living diving for pearls, working with traditional crafts and catching fish. Cross the bridge from the modern capital of Manama and step back in time on the island of Muharraq. Over the past decades, many of the traditional Arab houses have been restored and transformed into museums, cultural centres and boutique hotels. Check out 3 of the highlights of Muharraq.