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The Best in Bahrain Bahrain-Confidential.com
We’re leaving the heat behind, which means it’s time for al fresco dinners, packed event calendars, and the unleashing of our inner explorers. In our November issue, we’ve rounded up the best restaurants to hit and the biggest events coming to the island. Bahrain’s 54th National Day and the end of 2025 are just around the corner, so we’re also giving you a round-up of December celebrations you can’t afford to miss. Let’s make the most of this gorgeous weather. Don’t forget to visit our website, www.bahrain-confidential.com for the latest stories from around the Island.
Happy reading!
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ArabianMagazines.com Established since 2001, Bahrain Confidential is a Bahrain-based monthly publication available both in print and online editions. It is the definitive guide to high-end Arabian luxury and lifestyle. It covers the best in lifestyle, luxury, fashion and dining, as well as local events, art, society, fashion, beauty and travel. The monthly print edition of Bahrain Confidential is distributed to Bahrain’s highest spending consumers and decision makers.
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Online edition at Bahrain-Confidential.com
NOVEMBER 2025
Issue 268
26
Celebrate Bahrain
CONTENTS 04
30 Royal Bahrain Concours
What’s New? Al Fresco Season Begins at Avli by tashas Barceló Comes to Bahrain The K Lounge Opens at a Second Location
12
All Things Food Japanese Cuisine in the Spotlight Traditional Sweet Spots on the Island
20
20
What To Do? Two Scenes, One Unforgettable Experience The ENTERTAINER’s 2026 Membership December Calling: Unmissable Events
30
Motors The Much-Awaited Royal Bahrain Concours
10
What’s New
Mediterranean Magic Avli by tashas is ushering in the al fresco season.
T
he changing weather, cool breezes, and gorgeous sunsets can only mean one thing: al fresco season is here, and what’s better than pairing outdoor dining with gorgeous views of Manama? Offering a one-of-a-kind sundowner experience overlooking Bahrain Harbour, Avli by tashas has just opened its outdoor terrace.
The Athenian concept, which opened earlier this year, has already become an island favourite and is named among Bahrain’s Best Restaurants 2025. With the extended outdoor space, Avli is bringing together authentic flavours and views unmatched anywhere else on the harbour. Avli by tashas is ushering in the al fresco season with golden hours and Mediterranean magic under the stars - the ultimate sundowner experience.
The Opening Evening
The terrace launch on 29 October was an evening of Mediterranean magic under the stars. Diners were invited to experience a night of Athenian soul in Bahrain, complete with sunset views, authentic Greek cuisine, and sounds of the Mediterranean.
4 Bahrain Confidential November 2026
What’s New
Greek Soundscapes Meet Harbour Views
Avli by tashas has appointed DJ Savva as its resident entertainer, bringing Greek soundscapes to the waterfront. The music adds to the restaurant’s efforts to deliver a complete sensory journey that transports guests to the heart of Athens. “The response from Bahrain has been truly extraordinary. The Bahraini community shares our Mediterranean values of hospitality – that warmth, that genuine care for guests. It’s been incredible to see how naturally they’ve embraced what we do at Avli,” says Natasha Sideris, CEO & Founder of Tashas Group. The intimate 30-seat terrace offers the only vantage point of its kind on Bahrain Harbour, perfectly positioned for golden hour lovers and evening diners. The outdoor space follows the same design aesthetic as the interiors, reflecting the effortless charm that defines Avli’s contemporary Athenian character.
Charcoal-Grilled Flavours, Produce from Greece
At the heart of the experience is the food. Avli’s chefs grill over open charcoal fires, creating robust flavours from authentic ingredients. Whether guests are trying the mezze, salads, and fresh seafood or slowcooked meats and sublime desserts, the food at Avli is prepared with scrupulous care.
The Bahraini community shares our Mediterranean values of hospitality – that warmth, that genuine care for guests.
The elevated dining experience now unfolds on the terrace, where guests enjoy the same authentic flavours with the added pleasure of harbour breezes and breathtaking views of Manama’s gorgeous skyline. Avli by tashas is open Sunday to Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM, and Thursday to Saturday from 6:00 PM to 12:30 AM. n
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 5
What’s New
Spanish Hospitality Arrives Barceló Hotel & Residences has landed on the island, bringing decades of perfected European hospitality to Bahrain’s commercial district.
B
ahrain’s hospitality market has welcomed yet another international brand catering to business travellers as well as anyone looking to stay in the city centre, closer to shopping and leisure hubs. Bringing its well-known brand of Spanish hospitality to the heart of Bahrain, the 195-room Barceló Hotel & Residences has officially opened in Seef. The property marks the 90-plus-year-old group’s entry into the Kingdom, with an approach that feels both familiar and yet refreshingly different. Founded in the 1930s, Barceló Group has grown into a hospitality powerhouse. The hotel division, Barceló Hotel Group, operates over 300 four- and five-star hotels across more than 30 countries.
The Location
Seef district buzzes with the energy of modern Bahrain, and Barceló sits perfectly in the middle of it all. Whether you’re popping over to City Centre for some retail therapy, meeting friends at The Avenues, exploring
6 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
What’s New
the historic Bahrain Fort, or heading to meetings in the Diplomatic Area, everything seems close and accessible.
This is hospitality that understands your world. Whether you’re a busy professional needing a reliable spot for client meetings.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Souk Rooftop Restaurant on the 17th floor is the real draw. Picture this: panoramic views stretching across Manama’s skyline while you enjoy dinner or drinks. It’s the kind of setting that makes even a casual Tuesday evening feel like a celebration. Those views form a perfect backdrop for your next Instagram moment or as you enjoy a contemplative meal.
Weekday Staycations
Their weekday staycation packages start at just BHD 40 for a deluxe room with breakfast included. It’s that sweet spot where treating yourself doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Think of it as your mini holiday without the airport queues or jet lag. The rooftop breakfast experience at Souk at BHD 9 (BHD 4.50 for ladies) turns morning meals into something worth waking up early for. There’s something
magical about starting your day with a hearty breakfast, watching Bahrain wake up. It’s those little pleasures that make ordinary mornings feel extraordinary.
Dining – Restaurants Open Now
Food brings people together, and Barceló’s four dining spots each tell their own story. The ground-floor à la carte restaurant celebrates the flavours you actually crave, inspired by Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines. It’s comfort food elevated, familiar tastes presented with care and attention. The rooftop sports bar, Champs, becomes your go-to for those after-work drinks or weekend catch-ups with friends. There’s something about being up high, looking out over the city, that makes conversations flow a bit easier. The lobby coffee lounge understands your busy lifestyle, perfect for grabbing your morning flat white or an evening cup of tea before rushing off to your next errand. Friday brunch options from BHD 15 to
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 7
What’s New
Friday brunch options from BHD 15 to BHD 40 mean you can celebrate however feels right.
BHD 40 mean you can celebrate however feels right. Whether you’re marking a promotion, catching up with family, or simply embracing that weekend feeling, there’s a package that fits your mood and your plans.
basics right. Barceló Hotel & Residences delivers exactly that – a well-known brand, its signature approach to hospitality, fair pricing, and those high-rise views that make even a Tuesday night feel like a welldeserved escape.
Offers & Facilities
This is hospitality that understands your world. Whether you’re a busy professional needing a reliable spot for client meetings, a parent looking for family-friendly luxury, or someone who simply appreciates good food, comfortable spaces, and stunning views, Barceló feels like it was designed with your lifestyle in mind. n
Staff members of airlines and hotels get special rates at Barceló. Ladies’ nights and happy hours create regular opportunities to unwind, socialise, and build connections that make life richer. The facilities work with your lifestyle; the gym fits into your wellness routine, the pool offers that perfect Saturday afternoon reset, meeting rooms handle your professional needs, and the kids’ club means family time can be relaxing for everyone.
Quintessential Hospitality
Sometimes, the best hotel experiences come from places that simply get the
8 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
To book your stay at Barceló Hotel & Residences in Bahrain’s Seef District, contact +973 77900099, or email hotelbahrain.res@barcelo.com
Fabianca
New Look Same Drive Bigger Impact Social Media Management Media & PR
Web Design & Development Branding
Photography Videography
Digital Marketing Fabianca is a Bahrain-based creative agency, founded in 2015, with exciting expansions into Saudi Arabia and the UAE. We’re passionate about delivering innovative digital solutions that make brands stand out and thrive in a fast-paced world.
fabianca.com | info@fabianca.com | +973 1700 4575
What’s New
Lounging on the Waterfront The K Lounge has opened its doors in the Amwaj Islands
F
or years, The K Lounge has been one of the best spots in Juffair – set within The K Hotel. The second location, now open at the Dragon Beach Hotel, is a new milestone, and the opening event made this very clear. With a waterfront vibe, the upscale, indoor-only space holds 75 people, doubles up as a premium shisha lounge, and has a unique cocktail offering. The opening night brought together familiar faces, drinks in hand, and a soundtrack that matched the mood.
A Familiar Name, Now by the Sea The new Amwaj venue serves the same internationally inspired menu that people know from The K Lounge in Juffair – dishes
10 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
What’s New
that focus on flavour and presentation. Guests tried a selection of starters, mains, and desserts that sit somewhere between creative and familiar. Behind the bar, Outlet Manager and mixologist Brunken Watulingas introduced a new idea: The Daily Rotating Handcrafted Cocktails. Each day of the week features a different drink at a set price, giving regulars a reason to come back. Among the drinks on offer, the Smoked Peach Eclipse got attention – a mix of mezcal, tequila, peach purée, and lime juice that pairs smoky notes with brighter, fruitier ones.
Members of The K Hotel’s loyalty programme, K Plus, also get a 30 per cent discount when dining at the new lounge, valid until 31 December 202
Setting The Tone To mark the opening, The K Lounge Amwaj is running daily offers. Guests can stop by during Happy Hour from 1 pm to 8 pm for 30 per cent off selected drinks, or come for Ladies Night from 7 pm to midnight for different offers and a busier atmosphere. The setting is polished but relaxed – fitting for Amwaj’s coastal location. Members of The K Hotel’s loyalty programme, K Plus, also get a 30 per cent discount when dining at the new lounge, valid until 31 December 2025. The opening represents more than just a second location; it’s a shift for a recognised name in Bahrain nightlife. With its menu, cocktail programme, and setting, The K Lounge Amwaj has become a talking point on the island. So, if you’re wondering where to go in Amwaj, you can add The K Lounge to your list! Open Daily | 12 PM to 3 AM Location: Dragon Beach Hotel, Amwaj Islands (Google Maps) n
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 11
All Things Food
Island Favourite Bahrain’s Top 14 Japanese Restaurants
A
side from traditional flavours and local comfort food, Japanese restaurants have captured the hearts of Bahrain’s foodies. Whether it’s expertly crafted sushi rolls, the theatrical drama of robata grills, or innovative fusion creations, the kingdom’s Japanese dining scene offers something truly special. From intimate neighbourhood spots to glamorous rooftop restaurants with panoramic views, we’ve rounded up the best places to satisfy your cravings for everything from classic nigiri to contemporary Nikkei cuisine.
Mirai Restaurant & Lounge
Bushido by Buddha-Bar
Clay Bahrain
Bushido by Buddha-Bar offers an extraordinary fusion of traditional Japanese flavours and contemporary culinary artistry. Set in a captivating atmosphere with exceptional service, it’s the perfect destination for everything from intimate dinners to lively social gatherings – a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Clay brings a culinary experience inspired by Nikkei, a cuisine that blends Japanese-Peruvian culture. The restaurant delivers fresh preparations with intricate and nuanced flavours.
Location: Seef Contact: 17583555 / WhatsApp: 37933551
12 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
Mirai Restaurant & Lounge brings exquisitely crafted dishes by pushing the boundaries of traditional Japanese cuisine. Location: Adliya Contact: 17713113
Location: Adliya Contact: 17554545 / 38900029
All Things Food
Monsoon Monsoon pays tribute to the Palaces of Bali and Temples of the Orient while presenting a diverse menu of Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese food in a traditional Asian setting. Location: Manama Contact: 17749222
ROKA Bahrain
Sato Japanese Restaurant
Sumosan
Following the global success of robatayaki cuisine, Rainer Becker’s ROKA arrived in Bahrain in 2024. Located amid diners, the robata grill forms an integral design element of the restaurant. The dishes, featuring sushi, sashimi, and selections from the robata grill, are complemented by Japanese-inspired drinks and are designed to be shared at the table.
The Gulf Hotel’s Sato Japanese Restaurant, established in 1983, is a popular choice among guests for its peaceful, Zen-like surroundings, Teppanyaki rooms, and sushi bar. A popular á la carte menu is also available and features a wide range of traditional noodle dishes and bento. Sato is the perfect location for those looking for a genuine insight into Japanese cuisine and culture.
Sumosan offers a contemporary take on Japanese dining, with a strong focus on shared moments around the table. Led by Executive Chef Abdulla Isakov, the menu features signature creations alongside innovative additions, including the Japanese milk bread Wagyu Sando, miso-marinated black cod, a crispy rice pizza with salmon, wasabi prawns, and the tuna and truffle roll. Each dish reflects Sumosan’s dedication to culinary mastery.
Location: Bahrain Harbour, Manama Contact: 13343334
Location: The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Contact: 17746429/6430
Location: Marassi Al Bahrain Contact: 17008800
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 13
All Things Food
SUSHISAMBA Bahrain At Bahrain’s inaugural SUSHISAMBA restaurant, diners can immerse themselves in the vibrant tri-culture of Japan, Brazil and Peru. With a heady mix of flavours, sights and sounds, diners at the stylish poolside restaurant can enjoy delicious cuisine while listening to the beats of a live DJ. With a stunning location on Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour’s rooftop, the restaurant also offers 360-degree views over both Manama and Bahrain Bay. Location: Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour Contact: 77979779 Email: BahrainReservations@sushisamba. com WhatsApp: 33779979
Gyuto
Ruka Bahrain
Gyuto restaurant presents innovative Japanese dining. The menu is a mix of elevated classics and Gyuto creations, perfect for special occasions and culinary exploration.
Ruka is one of Bahrain’s sought-after luxury Japanese restaurants. Located on the 24th floor of Ramee Grand Hotel in Seef, it offers panoramic city views and engaging experiences such as roll-your-own sushi classes. As for the food, experience contemporary Japanese food prepared by skilled chefs – perfect for an evening treat.
Location: Al Liwan, Hamala Contact: 77999444
Location: Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa Contact: 36897379 / 33637010
14 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
All Things Food
Maki Maki introduces its guests to innovative Japanese Cuisine. The restaurant recently unveiled a new look, offering the art of Wabi-Sabi. Location: Bahrain World Trade Center, West Tower Contact: 17522733
Kabuki Japanese Cuisine
Kojo Japanese Restaurant
Oishi Japanese Fusion
Kabuki Bahrain offers an authentic Japanese dining experience, with a menu that features a wide range of sushi, sashimi, and other traditional dishes. The elegant ambience and skilled chefs make Kabuki a must-visit destination for sushi enthusiasts seeking a refined dining experience.
With multiple locations around the Kingdom, Kojo Restaurant offers a cosy and intimate setting for sushi lovers to enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes. With a menu that includes sushi, sashimi, and other traditional favourites, Kojo is a great place to explore the flavours of Japan in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Oishi Bahrain is a popular destination for sushi lovers, offering a wide selection of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. With a casual atmosphere and friendly service, Oishi is a great spot to add to your list. Don’t miss their all-youcan-eat sushi experiences for just BHD 8.9 all day, every day!
Location: Juffair | Al Liwan, Hamala Contact: 17616191 | 17621100
Location: Zayed Town | Juffair | Saar
Location: Seef Mall | Al Sayah Square | The Atrium Mall | The Food Hall Bahrain
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 15
All Things Food
Decadence in Heritage Where to find traditional sweets in Bahrain?
T
here’s something magical about Bahraini sweets. Perhaps it’s the way they glisten under shop lights, or how their rich aromas fill the air with promises of saffron, cardamom, and rosewater. Whilst halwa reigns supreme, Bahrain’s sweet shops overflow with other Arabic delicacies. You’ll find delicate baklava dripping with honey and layered with pistachios, crumbly ma’amoul cookies filled with dates or nuts, and kunafa with its crispy shredded pastry embracing sweet cheese. There are also luqaimat, those golden dumplings drenched in date syrup, and basbousa, the semolina cake soaked in fragrant sugar syrup. Um Ali is a delicious milk-based pudding that brings to life the comfort of having your mother’s preparation. Each sweet carries its own story, its own occasion, its own devoted followers. There's something magical about Bahraini sweets. From Halwa to Baklava, find out all about traditional sweets and where to find them on the island.
Hussain Moh’d Showaiter Sweets Looking for the OG Bahraini Halwa? Hussain Moh’d Showaiter Sweets has been a huge part of Bahrain’s fabric – since 1850, they’ve been known for THE Halwa that’s become popular around the world.
16 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
Showaiter Delights Located at The Avenues Bahrain, this shop represents heritage meeting modernity. The Showaiter name has been synonymous with quality Bahraini products, offering a glimpse into traditional sweet-making with contemporary convenience.
All Things Food
Jamal Showaiter Sweets For authenticity steeped in tradition, their freshly prepared halwa delivers that crucial balance of sweetness and spice. Perfect for celebrations or treating yourself on an ordinary Tuesday, they’ve mastered the art of elegant gifting.
Saleh Alhalwachi Sweets
Tariq Pastries
The gold standard for locals. Run by a family with generations of expertise, they’re often whispered about as serving the finest authentic Bahraini sweets you’ll find anywhere. Family recipes simply can’t be replicated.
Bahrain’s first Oriental sweet maker since 1982, they’ve spent over four decades perfecting both sweet and savoury offerings, all baked fresh daily using natural ingredients. Their baklava selections are irresistible. We recommend the chocolate-topped ones because an extra indulgence never hurts.
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 17
All Things Food
Nagwa Originally Kuwait’s premier gourmet food gift shop, they offer inspired sweets from across the Arabian Peninsula with contemporary packaging. They ship all over Bahrain and understand that presentation matters as much as taste. A perfect gifting solution for those gatherings!
Arab Dalla
Saadeddin Pastry
Located in Riffa and Al Hidd, they promise to light up your gatherings with authentic sweets. Arab Dalla delivers all over Bahrain, and you can choose from a variety of sweets under different labels.
Bringing nearly five decades of experience from Riyadh to Bahrain, they’ve served the kingdom for over 30 years since opening their first branch in 1993.
18 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
2025
VOTE NOW!
Bahrain's top dining spots are waiting for your verdict!
Scan the QR Code below to vote for your three favourite winners. The winners by public vote will be announced the Best Restaurants Awards 2025 in December.
Scan here and vote Or Visit www.bahrain-confidential.com @
What To Do?
Luxurious Escapes Staycation in Bahrain with an option of coastal charm or urban living.
A
re you drawn to sandy shores or bustling streets? Either way, Elite Hospitality Group's two Bahrain hotels give you plenty of reasons to book your next staycation. With cooler weather on the way, both properties have launched promotions that make this an ideal time to plan a getaway. Coastal Charm in Muharraq The Elite Resort and Spa hugs Muharraq's coastline, offering sea views straight from your window. Choose from one, two, or three-bedroom suites that suit everyone from solo guests to whole families. Running until the end of December 2025, the Autumn Escape package starts at BHD 39 for a one-bedroom suite. You'll get breakfast, WiFi, VIP extras, and a 4 PM
20 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
What To Do?
checkout instead of the standard midday departure. Families visiting in October get some nice bonuses. There's a dedicated children's menu and a Family Pizza Feast you can order to your room.
The hotel group caters to both GCC guests and international travellers wanting traditional Arabic hospitality blended with contemporary comfort.
The standout offering is Seafood Night by the pool, with indoor and outdoor tables available whilst you soak up the autumn atmosphere. It's easily one of Bahrain's best buffet dinners for the money. At BHD 12 per person (children under 12 pay half), it's a budget-friendly way to enjoy quality seafood. On Friday evenings, LA Brasseries hosts Grill Nights from 7 PM to 11 PM. You'll pay BHD 12 for soft drinks or BHD 21 for selected alcoholic drinks. Kids between 6 and 12 eat for just BHD 6. Urban Living in Seef Prefer city energy? Elite Seef Residence & Hotel sits in the heart of Bahrain's shopping district. The suites here go big on luxury, with generous floor plans, impressive bathrooms, and home cinema setups in each bedroom.
Every suite includes HDTV with satellite channels, fast internet, direct-dial phones with voicemail, and digital safes. Roundthe-clock room service means you're covered whether you're craving a latenight bite or an early breakfast. The autumn deal here matches the beach resort's offering but starts a touch lower at BHD 36 for a one-bedroom suite. You get the same benefits: breakfast, WiFi, VIP amenities, and that handy 4 PM checkout. The hotel group caters to both GCC guests and international travellers wanting traditional Arabic hospitality blended with contemporary comfort. Both locations feature several dining venues, bars, executive lounges, fitness centres, spas, and business facilities. n Both offers are valid until 31st December, 2025. To book: ring 17558200 or head to www.elitegrouphotels.com. You can contact the Muharraq resort directly at 38884415.
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 21
What To Do?
Go Out More, for Less ENTERTAINER Bahrain has dropped its 2026 membership.
L
et’s be honest, for most people, planning an outing starts with taking a long, hard look at their account balance. If only there were a way to enjoy the island’s best restaurants, attractions and spas without creating a big hole in your wallet. The ENTERTAINER‘s Bahrain 2026 membership has just dropped, which unlocks over 5,000 Buy One Get One Free offers.
What’s the Deal? The ENTERTAINER has been the region’s not-so-secret weapon for savvy diners and weekend warriors for 25 years. The journey from a well-loved book of vouchers to an essential lifestyle app has enabled people to find their favourite things to do, for less. With the 2026 membership, the user experience is extended to the next level – a larger range of merchants, refreshed UX/UI, and more exclusive offers than ever before. It covers everything from Friday brunches to spa days, family outings to date nights – whether during the week or on the weekend.
22 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
What To Do?
What’s New This Year?
The ENTERTAINER has been the region’s not-so-secret weapon for savvy diners and weekend warriors for 25 years.
The app has had a proper glow-up. Powered by Amazon Web Services, it now features AI functionality through H.A.P.I™, which is basically your personal ENTERTAINER assistant. Need a last-minute dinner spot? Weekend activity ideas? It’s got you covered with personalised recommendations that actually make sense for your lifestyle. The interface is sleeker, the browsing is easier, and the whole experience feels properly premium. Smarter suggestions tailored to your lifestyle, whether it’s weekend brunches or family fun.
The Price Point Here’s where it gets interesting. Pre-buy now for BHD 27.50 and you’ll snag 15 months of offers for the price of 12. That’s free access to all the 2025 offers while you wait for 2026 to kick in, so you can start saving immediately. Wait, there’s more. Buy in October and you’ll go “XL”, which means double the
offers at each merchant. Instead of three uses per merchant, you get six.
Where Can You Use It? Let’s talk merchants, because this is where the ENTERTAINER really shines. The 2026 lineup includes Bahrain heavyweights like Scalini, Fusions, Butcher Shop & Grill, and Vapiano. Fancy a weekend blowout? Bushido by Buddha Bar’s Pan Asian brunch is on the list. Need a reliable midweek option? TGI Fridays and Fuddruckers have you covered. New additions include Palma at Raffles Al Areen Palace (because sometimes you need that level of fancy), Sushi Library for your Japanese cravings, and Jamie’s Italian for when you want decent pasta without the trip to Italy. Coffee lovers aren’t forgotten either, with Illy Cafe, Nino and Dome Cafe all part of the package. Family-entertainment spots – The Lost Paradise of Dilmun, Bahrain Aquarium, Gravity Indoor Skydiving, Fabyland, and
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 23
What To Do?
Adhari Park – are all offering 2-for-1 deals. That’s proper savings when you’re trying to entertain kids without remortgaging the house. Golfers can hit up Royal Golf Club, while anyone who’s ever looked at spa prices and winced will appreciate offers at Heavenly Spa by Westin, Glow Up Salon & Spa and Royal Saray Spa.
The Family Angle One membership can be shared with up to three people through the Family Account feature. So whether you’re splitting it with your partner, flatmate or family members, everyone gets to play.
Did You Know? The ENTERTAINER is actually Bahraini-owned. With roots going back to Dubai in 2001, GFH picked up the brand in 2018. It gained popularity and launched in Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Singapore. 2026 marks the lifestyle companion’s 25th birthday, and Founder-CEO, Donna Benton says the ENTERTAINER is just getting started. “At 25, the ENTERTAINER is as fresh as ever, helping people to discover the best experiences their cities have to offer while saving along the way,” says Donna. “The ENTERTAINER Bahrain 2026 app takes that promise forward – giving people more choice, more moments, and more memories. 25 years is proof that a great product never goes out of style.“ n
Let’s break it down: You can purchase the ENTERTAINER Bahrain 2026 via the app or website. It costs BHD 27.50 If you pre-buy, you’ll go XL and receive 6 offers per merchant instead of 3. The app includes more than 5000 2-for-1 offers. Valid until 30th December 2026, this is one of those purchases that pays for itself after a couple of decent dinners. Everything else is just bonus savings. Download the app or visit the ENTERTAINER online to grab your membership before the XL offer disappears.
24 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
EDUCATION
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What To Do?
Celebrate Bahrain The biggest December events lined up on the island.
T
he December events calendar is packed! It’s when Bahrain truly comes alive. As temperatures finally dip to perfection and the winter breeze rolls in, the island transforms into a spectacular celebration of heritage, culture, and festivity.
The streets are draped in flowing reds and whites, the national colours proudly shine from every lamppost and building. It’s National Day fervour at its finest, but it’s also a lot more than that. The energy of an entire nation marking the end of another year with joy, pride, and that unmistakable warmth of Bahrain – that’s always worth experiencing. As always, Bahrain’s Ministry of Tourism has created a lineup of exciting events and activities to get everyone into the zone. From the historic alleyways of Muharraq to the glittering skyline of Bahrain Bay, the kingdom pulses with events that honour tradition whilst embracing the new. Whether you’re drawn to soulful jazz performances, the thunder of hooves on the racetrack, or the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, there’s something magical happening around every corner.
26 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
What To Do? Here’s your guide to the biggest events lighting up Bahrain at the year’s end.
Muharraq Nights 2025 Kick off December by wandering through the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path, where Muharraq Nights transforms the historic district into an enchanting cultural playground. Musical performances echo through ancient alleyways, art exhibitions pop up in restored buildings, and the scent of traditional Bahraini flavours fills the air. Children’s activities and guided tours ensure the whole family can dive into the island’s rich heritage. When: Sunday, 1 December – Tuesday, 30 December Where: Pearling Path, Muharraq Details: Free to attend
9th Bahrain Jazz Fest at Royal Golf Club
Bahrain Coffee Festival
Jazz lovers, this one’s for you. The 9th BNP Paribas Bahrain Jazz Fest brings Grammy Award-winner Frank Gambale All Stars to the Royal Golf Club, alongside international talent and beloved local performers, including Abdulla Haji, Manama Singers, and students from local schools. It’s a sophisticated evening under the stars that showcases both global excellence and homegrown talent.
Coffee isn’t just a drink in Bahrain; it’s a culture. The Bahrain Coffee Festival celebrates the kingdom’s dynamic coffee scene with live demonstrations, tastings, and workshops that’ll turn casual sippers into certified enthusiasts. Competitive events like the Latte Art Throwdown and Cup Taster Challenge add excitement, whilst B2B and B2C platforms connect everyone from home brewers to café owners.
When: Thursday, 5 December 2025 Where: Royal Golf Club Tickets: Book online
When: Monday – Friday, 9 – 13 December Where: Exhibition World Bahrain Tickets: Available online
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 27
What To Do?
Celebrate Bahrain Fireworks & Drone Show 2025 When National Day arrives on 16 December, the skies across Bahrain erupt in brilliant displays of light. Various locations host magnificent fireworks shows that paint the night red and white. Then, as the year draws to a close, Bahrain Bay becomes the epicentre of celebration on New Year’s Eve with a stunning combined fireworks and drone display that’ll leave you breathless. When: Monday, 16 December (National Day) & Tuesday, 31 December (New Year’s Eve) Where: Various locations (16 Dec) / Bahrain Bay (31 Dec) Details: Free to attend
The Bahraini Night Concert
Hawa Al Manama 2025
Authentic Bahraini musical artistry takes centre stage at the Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre. The Bahraini Night Concert showcases original themed music performed by talented local artists, celebrating the sounds and stories that make this island unique. The full lineup is still under wraps, but expect an evening that honours Bahrain’s creative spirit.
Step through Bab Al Bahrain to revisit the past whilst celebrating the present. Hawa Al Manama will be a captivating journey through Manama’s historical, economic, and social heritage. The old market streets of Manama Souq transform into stages where performances celebrate Bahrain’s identity and diversity across different eras. It’s heritage brought to life in the most vibrant way possible.
When: Thursday, 19 December Where: Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre Details: Full lineup to be announced
28 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
When: Wednesday, 25 December – Wednesday, 15 January Where: Manama Souq Details: Free to attend
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Car Bahrain
Royal Bahrain Concours A showcase of the world’s most exceptional cars comes to Bahrain
30 Bahrain Confidential November 2025
Car Bahrain
T
he island is set to welcome car enthusiasts from around the world at the inaugural Royal Bahrain Concours on 7 and 8 November 2025 at the Royal Golf Club.
Taking place under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the event will showcase 90 of the world’s most exceptional collector cars, from vintage classics to modern masterpieces. A further 300 vehicles from car clubs across the Gulf will also be on display. The two-day event kicks off on Friday, 7 November with The Grand Arrival, a prestige day featuring the show’s star vehicles and luxury shopping. Saturday, 8 November, is Awards Day, when judges will announce class winners and the coveted Best in Show award. Visitors can browse 400 vehicles in total, alongside food and shopping options. “The Royal Bahrain Concours is set to be the number one Concours in the whole of the GCC,” said James Brooks-Ward, Chairman of the Royal Bahrain Concours. “Bahrain is known as the home of motoring, having been the first GCC country to welcome Formula One. The Kingdom is renowned for its warm welcome and its rich culture. It is the most natural place for the motoring world to converge in November.” The launch positions Bahrain alongside established concours destinations in the US and Europe, strengthening the Kingdom’s reputation as a regional hub for automotive events. Beyond the cars, visitors can explore Bahrain’s wider attractions, from its Formula 1 heritage to cultural landmarks, luxury resorts and acclaimed dining scene. n
Bahrain Confidential November 2025 31
5 DECEMBER 2025 ROYAL GOLF CLUB
Ana Carla Maza
GeGè Telesforo
Caribe Trio
& the Big Mama Legacy
Frank Gambale All Stars Grammy Award winner 3-time Grammy nominee
★ MANON MULLENER 5TET ★ ABDULLA HAJI & THE ROUH COLLECTIVE ★ ★ MACUMBA ★ THE DMT EXPERIENCE ★ THE MANAMA SINGERS ★ GROOVE SOUQ ★ ★ BRITISH SCHOOL OF BAHRAIN★ ST. CHRISTOPHERS SCHOOL ★ AMERICAN SCHOOL BAHRAIN ★ ★ OFFICIAL FESTIVAL DJs: Zoot Suit Riot | DU$T ★
SINGLE 7-14 YEARS JUNIOR BD11
SINGLE 15+ YEARS ADULT BD22
GROUP
TICKETS
15+ YEARS
BD90
VIP TICKETS
BD150
Get your tickets at www.bahrainjazzfest.com/tickets CO-SPONSORS MEDIA PARTNERS
CO-SPONSORS CINEMA PARTNER
RADIO PARTNER
TICKETING PARTNERS