The Merchant House is a design-led boutique hotel in downtown Manama, close to the historic gate of Bab Al Bahrain and the lanes of the souq. It is a five-star property with a modern look and a collection of contemporary art by Bahraini and international artists, and the suites are laid out like small apartments, each with a kitchenette, a dining area, a sitting area, a master bedroom and an en-suite bathroom. The signature spaces are on the top and in the lobby: Indigo, a rooftop restaurant with a British-garden feel serving Mediterranean and Asian dishes and an all-day drinks menu, a rooftop pool, and The Library, an exclusive lounge overlooking the lobby that serves afternoon tea and late-night refreshments. The hotel is known for personal service and has been recognised by the Michelin Guide's hotel selection, a good sign for a boutique stay. For travellers who want a base with character in the oldest part of the capital, it is hard to beat.
Location and getting around
This is the one hotel on our list where you can step out and walk to the souq, Bab Al Bahrain and the old lanes in a few minutes. That is a huge advantage for evening strolls, coffee stops and the Manama Souq food tour, which starts nearby.
The Bahrain National Museum, Beit Al Quran and the Al Fateh Grand Mosque are short taxi rides, and the airport is a straightforward drive across the causeway. Because Bahrain has no metro, being able to walk to your first sights saves time and money.
Rooms
Expect spacious suites with a residential feel. The kitchenettes suit longer stays and families, and the separate sitting areas give couples room to relax. Choose a higher floor for a quieter room and better views. The art on the walls and in the public areas gives the hotel a gallery feel that sets it apart from the big chains.
Who it suits
Couples, culture-minded travellers and anyone who wants Manama's old town on the doorstep. Good to know: the lanes around the hotel are busy in the evening, particularly from Thursday to Saturday, so request a quieter room if you are a light sleeper. The rooftop is a lovely place for breakfast or a sunset drink, though it is outdoors, so the cooler months are the best time to enjoy it.
Alcohol is served in some venues in Bahrain's hotels, and the hotel can advise on current offerings. There is no beach, so families who want sand and slides may prefer a resort, but for atmosphere and walkability it is our top pick for first-timers.
Why stay here
- ✓Walk to Bab Al Bahrain and the souq
- ✓Rooftop pool
- ✓Indigo rooftop restaurant
- ✓The Library lounge and afternoon tea
- ✓Suites with kitchenettes
- ✓Contemporary art collection
- ✓Separate sitting and dining areas
- ✓Boutique five-star service
Good questions
How close is The Merchant House to the souq?+
It is a short walk from Bab Al Bahrain and the entrance to Manama Souq, making it the best of our hotels for exploring the old town on foot.
What are the rooms like?+
They are suite-style, with a kitchenette, dining and sitting areas, a master bedroom and an en-suite bathroom, plus contemporary art throughout the building.
Does it have a pool and restaurant?+
Yes. There is a rooftop pool and Indigo, a rooftop restaurant serving Mediterranean and Asian dishes, plus The Library lounge for afternoon tea.
