Manama, Bahrain
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Manama.
Traditional market with spices, gold, and local food. Day visits only - unsafe after dark. Watch for pickpockets in crowds. Dress modestly, limited English.
The traditional market entered through the Bab al Bahrain gateway from the 1940s. Been here since 1926. Narrow alleys with different sections - spices, textiles, gold and pearls. Busy during the day with locals, tourists, and vendors shouting prices. Haji's Café has been serving traditional breakfast since the 1950s if you want to try Bahraini food. Go during the day only - shops close around 7pm and the alleys get dark and empty fast. Pickpocketing happens in crowds, so watch your stuff. Less English spoken here and more traditional attitudes. Cover shoulders and knees, don't photograph people without asking. Best time is mid-morning - avoids the early crowds and afternoon heat. Explore for a few hours then leave before dark.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
PoorSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
HighHomelessness Visibility
HighGetting By in English
ModerateSome mistakes you only make once in Manama. But you shouldn't have to make them at all. This free checklist reveals the 5 safety pitfalls that catch solo women off guard — so you can avoid them before they happen.
"Interesting during the day, leave before sunset"
"Watch your phone and wallet - pickpockets in the crowds"
"Different from the rest of Manama - more traditional"
"Vendors are pushy but not threatening"
"Dress modestly, expect stares"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Old dense neighborhood with multicultural character and cheap housing. Higher crime and confusing dark streets make it unsuitable for visitors. Day visits for ethnic markets okay, stay elsewhere.
Residential area with cultural sites during the day, bar district at night. Higher crime than upscale areas. Cheap but not recommended if safety is a concern.
American expat area near the naval base with familiar restaurants and tight security. The bar scene brings harassment issues at night. Fine during the day for Al Fateh Mosque or hotel restaurants, but skip the bar strip.
Help other women stay safe in Manama Souq / Bab al Bahrain
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.