Hawa Al Manama Turns the City Into a Story

Running from 25 December to 15 January, Hawa Al Manama is set to transform the capital into a walkable narrative where heritage, design and contemporary urban life intersect. The project was unveiled during an exclusive pre launch media tour attended solely by journalists, offering an early look at an experience that seeks to redefine how Manama is explored, not merely visited.

The tour was led by Sara Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, who guided media representatives through the event’s facilities and conceptual framework. The emphasis, she explained, is on creating a human scale environment that reconnects the city with its cultural rhythm.

In a clear departure from conventional event planning, vehicles will not be permitted along the event route. Instead, organisers have allocated 3,000 parking spaces, supported by a valet service, allowing the area itself to remain pedestrian focused and immersive.

Traditional Bahraini crafts will feature prominently throughout the experience, reinforcing cultural continuity. A fully operational Bahraini sweets factory will also be part of the site, offering visitors a rare, behind the scenes look at one of the Kingdom’s most enduring culinary traditions.

The experience extends into the Kanoo Museum, where a collection of classic cars anchors the event in Bahrain’s commercial and social history, connecting generations through tangible symbols of the past.

Modern cafés and restaurants will operate within heritage inspired architectural settings, blending contemporary lifestyles with traditional aesthetics in a seamless visual dialogue.

Adding a dynamic layer to the experience, recreational elements including a basketball court introduce movement and youth culture into the space.

Hawa Al Manama does not stage heritage. It allows the city to speak for itself.