Updated December 2024
This festive season, Bahrain welcomes you to delve into the breezy, wintry spirit of the month and partake in the nation’s most profound celebrations.
From star-studded concerts to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of surprises and excitement this time of the year. In December, first-time and returning visitors will see Bahrain in its full glory and discover new reasons to come back again and again!
Revel in the nation’s historical celebration
The National Day of Bahrain commemorates the Kingdom’s independence, national heritage, and rich culture – all of which weave a vibrant story of the country and its people.
Last year’s grand celebration enchanted onlookers with traditional performances, thought-provoking art exhibitions, and various community gatherings. We can reveal that this year’s celebration will be just as exciting!
With many festivities in store for 2024, such as the National Day Cup race on 13 December and a dazzling firework show on 16 December, the Kingdom will be livelier than ever!
Muharraq Nights
The Pearling Path—a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO—will turn into an illuminated landscape filled with exciting performances and live music from 5 to 30 December 2024.
With cultural and heritage performances in the program, The Muharraq Nights will turn the venue into a place where everyone can share in the joys and pride of the nation.
Bahraini Night
The Bahraini Night celebrates Bahrain’s National day through a one-night immersive showcase of its brightest artists and celebrities.
On 15 December, local stars Khaled Al-Sheik, Samawa Al Sheikh, Hind, and Mohammed Al Bakri will perform live at Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre. For one night only, expect to be entertained and mesmerized by the elaborate performances and talents!
Spectacular live shows
Eminem live at Al Dana Amphitheatre
Get ready to jump to the thumping bass and pump your fists to every catchy beat; catch the world-renowned rapper Eminem live at the Al Dana Amphitheatre. Feel the thrill and cherish the raw, authentic lyrics that await you on 10 December 2024.
Lionel Richie takes the stage at Exhibition World Bahrain
Timelessness can best be described and experienced with Lionel Richie’s performance on 28 December 2024, live at Exhibition World Bahrain.
The event would be the icon’s very first performance in the country, an evening filled with legendary hits that will have you singing along and swaying back to memory lane. Surely, you wouldn’t want to miss such an opportunity.
Witness glorious sporting spectacles
IWF World Championship
Feel the blazing energy as the world’s top heavyweight lifters compete for the world championship title!
In association with the International Weightlifting Federation, the 2024 World Weightlifting Championships will take place in Manama, Bahrain, from 6 to 16 December 2024.
Brave CF Mixed Martial Arts
Are you ready to rumble? The Brave Combat Federation Mixed Martial Arts will be holding fierce battles from 4 to 15 December 2024, marking a significant event as the 6th edition of the Brave CF MMA will be battling out at its homeland.
This high-octane sporting event will have fans flocking to the Khalifa Sports City Arena, as world-renowned athletes such as Hamza Kooheji, Jose Torres, Muhammad Mokaev, and other MMA fighters will enter the octagon and duke it out for the final prize.
Shopping for gifts and treats
The Avenues–Bahrain
The Avenues–Bahrain is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the country. Filled with various shops that cater to your every need, ranging from cosmetics, fashion, home furniture, the Avenues–Bahrain is the place to be for fashionistas and families.
During December, the shopping experience is tinted with wintry touches. Stay tuned for the famous annual event, Avenue Winterland. Last year’s edition ran through February and may return this year again to bring joy and smiles to visitors of all ages.
City Centre Bahrain
Another go-to shopping mall favorite by locals and tourists alike is the City Centre Bahrain. Home to over 340 brands, the SAKS Fifth Avenue, a VOX cinema, multiple dining options and grocery choices, the largest shopping mall in Bahrain offers unlimited retail fun that will have you shopping til you drop!
Gear up for the exclusive promotions and offers this December, and expect an amazing family-fun time as the City Centre Bahrain will surely prepare holiday festivities for the entire family.
The mall offers unique activities for teenagers and young adults with its Magic Planet Bahrain, where all kinds of games imaginable can be found. The entire family can also enjoy some quality bonding time during a friendly competition at the Yalla! Bowling Lanes & Lounge.
Souq Al Qaisariya
Situated in the heart of the iconic Muharraq, Souq Al Qaisariya is a place that shows how tradition and modernity can blend wonderfully together. While the ancient trading market has been turned into a famous shopping spot, the design and walkways still evoke the romance of a bygone age.
Antique hunters and souvenir shoppers will delight in the selection of crafts, spices, jewels, and teas on offer here.
Marassi Galleria Mall
Celebrating Bahrain is best coupled with an unparalleled shopping experience at the Marassi Galleria Mall, where you can find the top luxurious brands and shop for your favorite home and fashion essentials. Find year-end gifts or treat yourself to the latest fall-winter collection at Chanel, Bvlgari, Dior, and more.
To add a sprinkle of festivities to your visit during the holiday season, the Marassi Galleria Mall will hold the Galleria Anchors from 27 November 2024 until 1 January 2025. The young ones will delight in visiting this year’s winter village daily from 2 PM to 10 PM, featuring glittering snow, festive trees, and delicious treats!
The showcase of Bahraini arts & culture
Bahrain National Museum
Considered to be one of the finest museums in the Gulf region, the Bahrain National Museum is a complex composed of two interconnected buildings adorned with exquisite marble that highlights its elegance which holds treasures within.
The magnificent museum holds 6,000 years of Bahrain’s history. Walk through and experience the centuries of history embedded in the six halls of the museum—the Graves, Dilmun, Tylos and Islam, Customs and Traditions, Traditional Trades and Crafts, and Documents and Manuscripts.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
One of Bahrain’s most picturesque sights is an important place of worship and reverence: the Al Fateh Grand Mosque. Located in Manama, Bahrain’s capital, the expansive Mosque spans 6,500 square meters and can hold up to 7,000 worshippers.
The Mosque is not only an exclusive space to those of the Islamic faith; the Al Fateh Grand Mosque offers tours for travelers, regardless of race or religion, showing the marvelous architecture that holds serenity and spirituality within its majestic walls.
Heritage Village
Celebrating Bahrain will not be complete without exploring the Heritage Village in Ras Hayyan. The hidden gems can be discovered through the elaborate details of every shape and curve of the architectural designs.
To make your discovery more memorable, the Heritage Village will host the 4th National Day festival from 12 December 2024 to 4 January 2025. Magnificent art displays, exhibitions and traditional music performances will enthrall you as you explore the village further. Don’t forget to try local treats and purchase some products that highlight Bahrain’s national identity and beauty.
Fun activities to make the most out of your trip
Funscape World’s Ice Zone
Want to feel the chilly, wintry vibe? Put your skates on and head off to the largest ice-skating rink in Bahrain, located in the Mall of Dilmunia. Exciting entertainment will delight everyone, as the Ice Zone will hold a ‘Funtastic Ice Show’ from 25 to 26 December 2024.
Funscape World’s Ice Zone also offers different types of activities for newbies and expert ice skaters. The kids will be shouting with joyful glee as they slide across the ice – but don’t worry, it’s completely safe! Gear equipment is given to all ice skaters to ensure that safety is not a cost.
Bahrain International Karting Circuit
The cool weather in December in Bahrain will make karting at the Bahrain International Karting Circuit an epic heart-racing memory.
The Bahrain International Karting Circuit is among the most prestigious race tracks and the first to host an international competition worldwide. You do not have to be an avid race fan to enjoy a speedshow and cheer for the racers. Feeling bold? Try your hand at a race, too, by booking a session. Imagine the soft whiplash of the cool wind as you speed through the circuit, where you’ll get to live the thrill of high-speed racers.
Arabian horseback adventure
Horseback riding amidst the natural beauty of Bahrain’s landscapes becomes even more enchanting during December.
You can check out available tours that offer scenic rides. Many boast majestic sights to marvel at along the route, such as the UNESCO heritage site Bahrain Fort. Bundle up in warm clothes and take your place atop the beautiful stallion, then get ready to gallop past the mesmerizing scenery. It’s truly as cinematic and as thrilling as it sounds.
Pearl diving at the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf
The Kingdom of Bahrain is widely known for its natural recherché pearls. Expert divers have been hunting the deepest oceans of Bahrain for over 2,000 years, uncovering and re-discovering the most beautiful pearls that are adored across the world.
This history, deep-rooted in the oceanic waters, has become a local and tourist attraction, where each attempts to scour every nook and corner of the seas for Bahrain’s most prized pearls.
Interested divers are highly encouraged to book tours to ensure a safe diving discovery amidst the glistening waters that will leave a resonating memory.
Relax in luxury and comfort
Wyndham Grand Manama
A perfect blend of comfort and luxury is offered by the Wyndham Grand Manama, a five-star hotel that features mesmerizing views with its spacious, elegantly designed rooms and suites. Wyndham Grand provides an ultimate dining experience from the talented chefs as various cuisine options are given to its guests, such as Asian, Arabic, Indian or Mediterranean cuisines.
Guests can rejuvenate themselves with the hotel’s high-end wellness and leisure amenities. As part of Bahrain’s National Day celebrations, Wyndham Grand Manama will offer promotions from 2 to 27 December 2024. Booking for two nights now will earn one free night, redeemable up to 30 June 2025. The offer includes free dining and lodging for children.
Raffles Al Areen Palace
Within Zallaq, located on the west coast of Bahrain, lies a serene oasis. The Raffles Al Areen Palace takes pride in its natural landscapes and intricate architecture. Its design and structure have roots in Bahrain’s heritage, displayed throughout the Al Areen Palace.
From 1 to 31 December 2024, the Raffles Al Areen Palace will offer a promotional period during which a two-night stay will receive a complimentary third night. This unmissable opportunity allows you and your loved one to enjoy the hotel’s first-class amenities, including private villas, afternoon teas, and spa and wellness facilities.
