General Information » Culture & Lifestyle » Culture

Bahrain’s culture is rooted mainly in Gulf Arab historical traditions and Islamic culture. Islam is more than just a religion, it is a way of life, and impacts on everything in daily life, from what to eat or drink, to what to wear and to how social life should be conducted. That said, Bahrain is a welcoming and tolerant country, with a long history of responding to outside influences and its culture to a certain extent reflects this. Foreigners have the freedom to practise their religion, and alcohol is served in restaurants, hotels and bars, and is sold in off-licences to non-Muslims. Women, although conservative, are a visible part of the workforce and daily life, and unlike in Saudi Arabia, are allowed to drive and walk around unescorted.

In the Bahraini culture hospitality and courtesy are prized, and visitors are often charmed by the friendliness of the people. Over the last 35 years, however, Bahrain has undergone rapid economic development and this has changed daily life considerably. There has been a resultant impact on the culture, primarily in that people are more hurried and less relaxed than they were 20 years ago. Traditional pastimes have also given way to more modern and universally practised activities.

Most shopping now takes place in the malls and supermarkets, rather than in the souks, and while local coffee shops are still plentiful, international coffee house chains are increasingly popular with the young. However, traditional aspects of life continue to be apparent and Bahrainis have a strong pride in their roots and their ability to retain their essence while modernising, so this is unlikely to change.

Most Bahrainis continue to wear national dress, socialise often with their extended family and celebrate weddings in colourful occasions of feasting and music. Frequent mass weddings are organised by local religious and social organisations for the benefit of less wealthy couples.

To western eyes the inevitable photograph in the Gulf Daily News (GDN) of a group of happy grooms ‘tying the knot’ without a bride in sight seems strange, but separate celebrations for the brides are held at other venues where women only are admitted. Arabic culture in music, poetry and art is encouraged, and widely enjoyed. One of the wonderful aspects of Bahrain is that foreigners can continue to live within their own culture, and also enjoy what Bahrain offers, for a truly rich multicultural experience.