Where to Stay in Manama
Safe neighborhoods, social hostels, and practical tips for women travelling alone
Our pick for solo female travellers
Stay in Juffair
Offers a high level of safety, English is widely spoken, and there's a good selection of accessible dining and entertainment options.
Best Neighborhoods for Solo Female Travellers
Ranked by relevance for solo female travellers visiting Manama
Juffair
Mid-rangeA modern and bustling district popular with expats, offering a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shopping.
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Large expat community means English is widely spoken
- +Good access to taxis and rideshares
- -Can feel very commercial and less traditional Bahraini
- -Traffic can be heavy
🛡️ Very safe for tourists, including solo females, with a visible police presence and well-lit streets.
Hoora
BudgetA mixed-use area with a blend of residential buildings, hotels, and some local businesses, offering a more authentic feel.
- +Closer proximity to cultural attractions
- +More affordable accommodation options
- +Less tourist-centric than Juffair
- -Fewer dining and entertainment options compared to Adliya or Juffair
- -Can be less polished than other tourist areas
🛡️ Generally safe, but it's advisable to stick to well-lit main streets at night and be aware of your surroundings.
Adliya
Mid-rangeA vibrant hub for art, dining, and nightlife, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and galleries.
- +Excellent culinary scene
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Good for evening entertainment
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Limited public transport within the neighborhood
🛡️ Generally safe during the day and evening, but be aware of your surroundings in crowded nightlife areas.
Seef
LuxuryManama's modern commercial and retail heart, dominated by shopping malls and upscale business hotels.
- +Excellent shopping and entertainment options
- +Modern infrastructure and amenities
- +Good for business travelers
- -Lacks the traditional charm of other areas
- -Can be expensive
🛡️ Extremely safe, especially within the malls and hotel complexes, with a strong security presence.
Daily Budget (Budget)
BHD 30/day
Hidden Gems in Manama
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre
FREEWitness traditional Bahraini crafts being made, from basket weaving to pottery, in a beautifully restored old house. It's a quiet and authentic glimpse into the country's heritage.
Bahrain National Museum Cafe
While the museum itself is a popular spot, the cafe offers surprisingly good coffee and light bites with a pleasant view overlooking the sea. It's a peaceful escape after exploring the exhibits.
Bab Al Bahrain Souq
FREEBeyond the main tourist stalls, wander through the narrow alleys of this traditional souq to find local spices, dates, and unique handicrafts. It's a bustling sensory experience where you can haggle for treasures.
Block 338 Restaurant Street
This pedestrianized street comes alive in the evenings, lined with a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines from around the world. It's a vibrant spot for dinner and people-watching away from the more touristy areas.
Safety in Manama
SafeSolo Female Travel
Manama is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night and being aware of your surroundings are recommended, but harassment is uncommon.
At Night
Most tourist areas like Adliya and Juffair are well-lit and busy. Exercise normal caution in quieter streets or less populated areas.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers.
- 2Fake shopkeepers or street vendors offering 'bargains' that are not what they seem.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Manama