Culture Of Bahrain: Customs & Tradition

Bahrain Traditional Clothing

Traditional attire reflects the culture of Bahrain, where men continue to embrace timeless styles suited for the local climate, and women express their individuality through the diverse and vibrant choices in abayas and festive dresses.

Men traditionally wear the thobe, a loose, ankle-length robe made from fine white cotton or heavier wool in winter. The thobe is often accompanied by the keffiyeh, a square scarf worn over the head, and the agal, a thick black cord to hold the keffiyeh in place. Some occasions call for a bisht, a soft woollen cloak usually in black, brown, or grey, worn over the thobe.

Bahraini women commonly dress conservatively, with the abaya being a popular choice. This long, black gown with long sleeves drapes elegantly around the body, often adorned with embroidery and decorative borders. Many women also cover their heads with a headscarf, with variations such as the hijab or nikab. Festive dresses like the jalabiya add colour to women's wardrobes, featuring bright red hues and intricate gold embroidery.

Food and Drink in Bahrain

Bahrain's culinary culture weaves traditional delights into a rich heritage. From iconic dishes like machbous, a blend of meat or fish with rice, to the sweet muhammar with dates, Bahrain's traditional foods offer a symphony of flavours. Arabian delicacies like falafel, shawarma, and savoury pastries add diversity, while the significance of fresh fish, especially Hamour, reflects culinary heritage.

Qoozi, grilled lamb stuffed with rice, epitomises Bahraini gastronomy, complemented by the traditional flatbread Khubz. Coffee, known as Gahwa, symbolises a warm welcome, and Sheesha (hookah) in open-air coffee shops embodies leisurely conversations. Amid Muslim holidays, large family feasts mark celebrations, with Ramadan culminating in joyous gatherings featuring traditional fare.

Mealtimes are important family gatherings in Bahraini households. While breakfast often consists of khobez, scrambled eggs with noodles, and cooked beans, lunch is considered the main meal and is a time for the family to come together. This usually occurs around 2 or 3pm and features large portions, with popular dishes including spicy rice dishes like biryani, mixed vegetables called salona, and the traditional harees, especially during Ramadan.

Festivals in Bahrain

Bahrain hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich cultural heritage and diverse community. Some of the prominent festivals in Bahrain include:

Bahrain National Day

Date: December 16^th every year

Commemorates Bahrain’s independence from British colonial rule, the day is marked with parades, fireworks, cultural performances, and various festivities across the nation.

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha

Date: Varies (during the 9^th month of the Islamic calendar)

These two Islamic festivals are widely celebrated in Bahrain. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Both Eids are celebrated with prayers, feasting, giving of gifts, and social gatherings.

Bahrain Summer Festival

Date: Varies during the summer months (April-October)

Held annually during the summer months, the Bahrain Summer Festival showcases a diverse range of cultural performances, including music, dance, theatre, and art exhibitions. The festival aims to promote cultural exchange and entertainment for residents and visitors alike.

Bahrain International Music Festival

Date: October annually (specific dates may vary)

Bahrain International Music Festival brings together musicians and performers from around the world to showcase their talents in various genres, including classical, jazz, contemporary, and traditional music. Audiences can enjoy concerts, workshops, and masterclasses during the festival.

Spring of Culture Festival

Date: Varies during the spring months (February-April)

Organized by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Spring of Culture Festival celebrates Bahrain's cultural heritage through a series of events, including art exhibitions, film screenings, literary readings, and live performances. The festival aims to promote cultural exchange and appreciation among locals and visitors.

Cultural Values and Society in Bahrain

Islam

Bahrain's culture is deeply rooted in Islam, shaping personal, political, economic, and legal aspects of life. While the majority of Bahrainis practice Islam, about 70% are Shia Muslims, leading to historical conflicts as the country is governed by a Sunni ruling family.

Islam originated from present-day Saudi Arabia, and the Prophet Muhammad, the last of God's emissaries, brought a universal message for all of mankind through the Quran. This holy book, along with the Prophet's actions (Sunnah), serves as the foundation for Islamic guidance.

Muslims in Bahrain have specific obligations, such as praying five times a day, observing Friday as the holy day, and fasting during Ramadan, which includes restrictions on eating, drinking, and other activities. The breaking of the fast (iftar) is a daily celebration during Ramadan, marked by gatherings with family and friends.

Family/Tribe

In terms of social structure, familyplays a central role in Bahrain. Loyalty to the family takes precedence over other social relationships, and nepotism is positively viewed for ensuring trust in hiring. With households often consisting of extended families living under one roof, including parents, children, grandparents, and sometimes uncles and their families. This structure is a significant aspect of the culture of Bahrain, reflecting its emphasis on family unity and support.

Women

Women in Bahrain are notably more publicly active than in many Arab countries. While some wear head-coverings, many Bahraini women are not completely veiled. They are highly educated, well-represented in major professions, and about one-quarter work outside the home. Importantly, women in Bahrain have the right to vote, reflecting the balance between tradition and progress in the culture of Bahrain that is deeply entwined with Islam.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bahrain Culture

1. What is the main culture in Bahrain?

Bahrain is a Muslim country, and there are rules to support its important practices. These include fasting during Ramadan from sunrise to sunset for those taking part.

2. What is the family culture in Bahrain?

Usually, children in Bahrain only move out of home when they get married. In most Bahraini families, mothers stay at home and don't work. If she does, the father is still the main financial supporter of the family. Both parents have equal authority, but sometimes the father has more power in the family.

3. How to behave in Bahrain?

• Avoid physical contact with another adult in public, such as holding hands.  
• Wear modest clothes.
• Behave politely and keep things discreetly
• Be respectful of religious and social customs to avoid offending local sensitivities. For instance, women should cover their arms and legs, and men should avoid wearing shorts in public.

4. What are the beliefs in Bahrain

In Bahrain, Muslims, including Sunni and Shia, live peacefully alongside followers of other religions like Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Catholicism. Conflicts based on religion are rare, reflecting the nation's harmonious religious coexistence.