Cyphrine Labrillazo – PowerUp City Magazine

Gargee’an Returns With a Message of Happiness

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:13:46 +0000

MANAMA, Bahrain — Before organized festivals and large-scale Ramadan activations, Gargee’an belonged to the neighborhoods.

Observed across Bahrain and the Gulf on the 13th, 14th or 15th night of Ramadan, Gargee’an, also known as Gerga’oon is a children’s tradition centered on generosity and community. Dressed in traditional clothing, children move door to door singing familiar chants and collecting sweets and nuts in small fabric bags.

The ritual is simple, but its meaning runs deeper, reinforcing gratitude, togetherness and shared identity during the holy month.

On March 3, 2026, Bahrain’s Gargee’an will take on a new structure under the theme “Best of Happiness.”

Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, this year’s celebration introduces a mobile format designed to reach families across all four governorates. A specially themed bus tour will begin in Muharraq before traveling through the Capital and Northern Governorates and concluding in the Southern Governorate. Along the route, volunteers will distribute sweets and small gifts to children, bringing the celebration directly into neighborhoods.

The approach blends tradition with coordination. Rather than waiting for children to gather in specific locations, the celebration moves toward them.

The initiative aims to preserve the essence of Gargee’an, generosity, singing, sweets and shared laughter, while broadening its accessibility. Organizers have worked with relevant authorities to ensure smooth execution, underscoring the growing scale of what was once a purely grassroots ritual.

For families, the shift offers both nostalgia and novelty. Parents who grew up knocking on doors can now watch their children experience the tradition through a structured, nationwide celebration.

Gargee’an in Bahrain has always adapted to its era. From lantern-lit alleyways to organized cultural festivals, the night continues to evolve without losing its core purpose, to create moments of joy during Ramadan.

On March 3, the celebration will once again take place across the island, reinforcing what Gargee’an has always represented, shared joy and community spirit.

Smart Iftar and Suhoor Choices for Better Health During Ramadan

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:23:01 +0000

How balanced Iftar and Suhoor can prevent common fasting issues

Ramadan changes more than meal times. It shifts sleep patterns, hydration habits and daily energy cycles. In the GCC, where fasting hours are long and temperatures are high, those changes can affect how the body performs.

Most health concerns during Ramadan are not caused by fasting itself. They are often the result of how Iftar and Suhoor are managed.

One of the most common complaints during Ramadan is dehydration. Reduced fluid intake during daylight hours, combined with heat exposure, can lead to headaches, fatigue and muscle weakness. The solution begins at Iftar.

Breaking the fast with water and continuing to hydrate gradually throughout the evening is more effective than drinking large amounts at once. Water-rich foods such as soups, fruits and yogurt-based dishes also help restore fluids.

Suhoor plays an equal role. Including hydrating foods and limiting salty items reduces excessive thirst the following day. Spacing water intake between sunset and dawn supports better hydration balance.

Digestive Discomfort

Bloating, acid reflux and stomach discomfort are frequent issues after Iftar. These symptoms often stem from overeating or consuming heavy fried foods immediately after fasting.

A lighter start can prevent this. Breaking the fast with dates and water, followed by soup or a small salad, allows digestion to restart gradually. Waiting before eating a full main course helps regulate portion size and reduces digestive strain.

At Suhoor, overly heavy meals can also cause discomfort. Choosing moderate portions of protein and complex carbohydrates instead of rich or greasy dishes helps maintain comfort through the morning.

Energy Crashes

Many people report feeling exhausted by midday. In some cases, the cause is skipping Suhoor. Without a pre-dawn meal, the body relies entirely on the previous evening’s intake.

Suhoor should include slow-release carbohydrates such as oats or whole grains, paired with protein like eggs or yogurt. This combination helps stabilize blood sugar and reduces mid-day fatigue.

At Iftar, limiting sugary drinks and desserts prevents rapid spikes and crashes in energy later in the evening.

Sleep Disruption

Ramadan often shifts sleep schedules, especially with late-night gatherings and early Suhoor. Reduced sleep can lead to irritability, low concentration and weakened immunity.

Maintaining consistent sleep hours, even with adjustments, is important. Keeping Suhoor efficient rather than prolonged can support better rest.

Weight Fluctuations

Despite fasting, some individuals experience weight gain during Ramadan. This typically results from high-calorie evening meals, fried foods and desserts consumed in large quantities.

Balanced Iftar meals that emphasize lean protein, vegetables and moderate portions of grains can prevent unnecessary weight gain. Limiting fried appetizers and reserving sweets for occasional servings helps maintain equilibrium.

Pantry Essentials to Survive Ramadan

Category	Essentials	Why It Matters
Hydration	Dates, water, laban, yogurt, cucumbers, watermelon	Restores fluids and minerals
Slow-Release Carbs	Oats, brown rice, whole grain bread, barley	Sustains energy through the fast
Protein	Eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, Greek yogurt	Supports satiety and muscle balance
Fiber & Vegetables	Red lentils, chickpeas, leafy greens	Aids digestion and prevents bloating
Healthy Fats	Olive oil, nuts, avocados	Slows digestion and stabilizes energy
Flavor Without Excess Oil	Cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic, sumac	Enhances taste without heaviness

Balanced Iftar restores. Thoughtful Suhoor sustains.

When hydration, portion control and nutrient timing are prioritized, many common Ramadan health issues can be avoided. Preparation in the pantry often determines comfort throughout the month.

Chef Pillai Sets the Table for a February of Flavor at Jashan

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:37:51 +0000

A media lunch at Jashan by Chef Pillai unfolded with the kind of calm confidence that usually follows a kitchen certain of its direction. Hosted by Wyndham Garden Manama on Jan. 31, the invitation-only gathering brought together media, vloggers and digital creators for a preview of what Chef Pillai has planned for Bahrain this February.

The lunch doubled as an introduction and a promise. Chef Suresh Pillai, in town ahead of a two-week culinary residency, spoke about his journey, the thinking behind Jashan’s menu, and how the restaurant balances tradition with contemporary presentation. The conversation flowed easily, punctuated by dishes that reflected the restaurant’s identity, rooted, expressive and unmistakably personal.

“This was about sharing the story behind Jashan by Chef Pillai and offering a preview of the experiences guests can expect,” said Mukul Mehta, Cluster General Manager at Wyndham Garden Manama. The lunch, he added, set the tone for a series of events designed to bring guests closer to the food and the chef.

That calendar runs from Feb. 1 to Feb. 14 and includes an Interactive Cooking Class, the Travancore Food Festival, a Chef’s Degustation Menu, Friday Brunch, a Nikah Biryani Festival and a Valentine’s Day Special Dinner. Each experience is built around access, opportunities for diners to engage directly with Chef Pillai while exploring menus that draw from regional Indian traditions and celebratory formats.

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At the media lunch, that philosophy translated into a table that encouraged conversation as much as tasting. Guests asked questions, shared impressions and moved through the meal at an unhurried pace, offering a glimpse of how Jashan positions itself, less spectacle, more substance.

By the time dessert arrived, the message was clear. February at Jashan by Chef Pillai is designed not as a single headline moment, but as a sequence of thoughtfully curated experiences, each one extending the dialogue between chef, kitchen and diner.

An Eye-Opening First Visit to the Bahrain Arts Society Annual Exhibition 2026

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:30:46 +0000

For a first-time visitor, the Bahrain Arts Society Annual Exhibition 2026 feels less like a single exhibition and more like a guided walk through Bahrain’s contemporary creative pulse. From the moment you enter, it becomes clear this isn’t designed to be rushed. The layout encourages slow movement, pauses, and second looks, an experience that rewards curiosity rather than checklist viewing.

Organized by the Bahrain Arts Society, the annual exhibition brings together a broad mix of artists working across painting, mixed media, and contemporary abstraction. For future goers, expect a large-scale group exhibition rather than a tightly themed show. There is no single narrative or prescribed route. Part of the appeal is discovering how different artistic voices sit alongside one another, sometimes in harmony, sometimes in contrast.

What the Experience Is Like

The exhibition unfolds across multiple rooms, each offering a shift in tone and visual language. Some spaces feel quiet and contemplative, others are more energetic and visually dense. For first-time attendees, it’s worth allowing at least 60–90 minutes to fully take it in. The diversity of styles can feel overwhelming at first, but that sensation quickly turns into appreciation. This is where the exhibition becomes eye-opening. It reveals just how wide the spectrum of artistic practice in Bahrain truly is.

Rather than spotlighting a single “star,” the show functions as a snapshot of the local art scene, mixing established voices with artists who are clearly still evolving. That balance gives the exhibition its rhythm and makes repeat visits worthwhile.

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Artists that Stood Out (From a crowd of many)

With dozens of works on display, the exhibition doesn’t push visitors toward a short list of “must-see” names and that’s part of its strength. There are many artists worth spending time with, and the experience naturally becomes personal. The works that stand out tend to do so quietly, catching your attention not because they demand it, but because they hold it.

Among those that resonated most were a handful of artists whose approaches felt distinct and memorable. Jamal Al Yousif’s work stood out for its depth and sense of meaning. His pieces feel layered and considered, inviting viewers to pause and engage beyond first impressions. There’s an emotional gravity to his compositions that unfolds slowly, rewarding time and attention.

The work of Noor Al Sairafi offered a contrasting experience. Her piece felt refreshing and unmistakably contemporary, very now in both tone and execution. It brought lightness and immediacy to the exhibition, cutting through the density of the space and re-energizing the viewer as they moved through the rooms.

Another artist who caught attention was Rashid Mohammad, whose work leans toward balance and visual structure. His approach feels measured and composed, emphasizing form and color relationships rather than overt narrative. In a setting filled with varied expressions, his work provides moments of calm and visual clarity.

Looking ahead, one artist whose work sparks curiosity for future editions is Eman Al Jishi. Her contemporary and experimental approach suggests a practice that’s still evolving. There’s a sense of exploration in her work particularly in her use of materials and process, that makes her someone to watch as Bahrain’s art scene continues to develop.

What Future Goers Should Know

For those planning a visit, this exhibition is best experienced without a strict agenda. Go in open, allow yourself to linger, and don’t feel the need to “understand” every piece immediately. The strength of the Bahrain Arts Society Annual Exhibition lies in its range, traditional sensibilities sit comfortably next to contemporary experimentation, creating a layered and honest reflection of Bahrain’s art scene today.

By the end of the visit, what stays with you isn’t just individual artworks, but the realization that Bahrain’s artistic landscape is far more expansive than it’s often given credit for. For first-time visitors especially, the exhibition showcases art that exceeds expectations.

It’s an exhibition that encourages return visits, deeper looking, and continued curiosity about the artists shaping Bahrain’s creative future.

📍 Art Centre, Al Fatih Highway, Manama, Bahrain

🗓 20 January 2026 – 20 February 2026

⏰ 09:00 AM – 08:00 PM

*Free Admission

Bahrain Open 2026 Showcases Rising Stars on the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:14:40 +0000

The Bahrain Open on the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour returned to Manama in January with a field that reflected exactly what a W75 tournament is meant to deliver, proven professionals, rising contenders, and qualifiers determined to turn opportunity into momentum.

Held at the Public Security Officers Club from Jan. 19 to 25, the outdoor hard-court event offered $60,000 in prize money and valuable ranking points early in the 2026 season. As one of the more competitive W75 stops on the calendar, the Bahrain Open once again proved why it remains a meaningful platform for players navigating the transition between ITF success and higher-level tours.

Qualifying Sets the Competitive Tone

Qualifying matches on Jan. 18 immediately signaled the depth of the field. Ekaterina Ovcharenko emerged as one of the standout performers, advancing through qualifying before carrying that form into the main draw. Rina Saigo and Ankita Raina also showed early composure, navigating tightly contested matches that tested endurance and consistency.

As is often the case at this level, qualifiers brought confidence and urgency into the main draw, traits that would trouble higher-ranked opponents as the week progressed.

Main Draw Brings Experience and Momentum

The opening rounds featured a mix of control and unpredictability. Alina Korneeva, one of the most closely watched young talents in the draw, made a strong start with a composed opening-round victory, showcasing clean ball-striking and court awareness beyond her years.

Experienced campaigners such as Fiona Ferro, Hanne Vandewinkel, Sofia Costoulas, Carole Monnet, and Jessika Ponchet added balance to the field, blending tactical discipline with the patience required on Manama’s outdoor hard courts. Several matches extended into deciding sets, underlining the competitive parity typical of W75 events.

Ovcharenko’s progression from qualifying into the main draw became one of the tournament’s early storylines, reinforcing how momentum can outweigh rankings at this level of competition.

Photos from Bahrain Tennis Federation

Matches Defined by Margins and Crowd Engagement

The court conditions favored baseline consistency and smart shot selection, with service games becoming increasingly important as matches tightened. Players who managed recovery well between rounds often found themselves better positioned late in matches, a recurring theme as the tournament moved deeper into the week.

For spectators, the balance between experienced professionals and emerging players created compelling matchups, where tactical maturity met athletic ambition.

The Bahrain Open’s compact venue allowed fans close access to the action, creating an engaged atmosphere that rewarded extended rallies and momentum swings. Local support was particularly noticeable during comeback efforts, adding energy to matches that stretched into third sets.

The setting continued to highlight the tournament’s appeal as both a competitive sporting event and a lifestyle fixture on Bahrain’s winter calendar.

Why the Bahrain Open Is a Key Tournament on the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour

W75 tournaments occupy a critical space on the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour. They provide enough ranking incentive to alter a player’s season trajectory while maintaining competitive balance across the draw. For players like Korneeva, Ferro, and Ovcharenko, performances in Manama can influence confidence and scheduling decisions well beyond January.

As the Bahrain Open moved toward its latter stages, the field narrowed to those combining discipline, fitness, and adaptability. Whether through controlled aggression or patient point construction, players who adjusted best to conditions separated themselves from the pack.

Once again, the Bahrain Open delivered a familiar ITF promise: high-quality competition, emerging narratives, and a glimpse at the players shaping the future of women’s tennis.

Bahrain’s Drag Racing Legacy Roars Into a Defining Fourth Round

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:00:35 +0000

Long before winter nights at the Bahrain International Circuit filled with the echo of turbocharged engines and the sharp scent of burning rubber, drag racing in Bahrain was a niche pursuit, raw, mechanical, and driven largely by underground enthusiasm. Over the years, it has grown into one of the Kingdom’s most anticipated motorsport fixtures, combining international sanctioning with a deeply local following.

The Bahrain Drag Racing Championship, now a cornerstone of the circuit’s annual calendar, has evolved alongside Bahrain’s broader motorsport ambitions. What began as straightforward quarter-mile competition has transformed into a professionally structured, NHRA-sanctioned championship, attracting competitors from across the GCC and delivering a spectator experience that balances precision racing with pure adrenaline.

That evolution was on full display during Round 4 of the 2025–2026 Bahrain Drag Racing Championship, staged from Jan. 13 to Jan. 16 at Bahrain International Circuit.

From Local Passion to International Standard

Early drag racing meets in Bahrain were defined by raw speed and mechanical bravado. Today, the sport is shaped by discipline, data, and margins measured in thousandths of a second. Operating under the NHRA Worldwide Network, Bahrain’s drag strip follows international class structures and safety standards, placing local competition firmly within a global framework.

Across the four-day fourth round, that professionalism was evident from the opening qualifying runs. Cars and bikes were pushed hard early, as teams sought to secure favorable positions before the elimination stages intensified.

A throwback from 2019/2020 Bahrain Drag Racing Championship. Photo Courtesy of Bahrain News Agency

Four Days That Set the Tone

Round 4 unfolded as more than a single race weekend. Beginning on Jan. 13, the paddock filled with regional contenders balancing setup experimentation with championship strategy. By Jan. 14 and 15, qualifying and elimination rounds sharpened, with tighter reaction times and cleaner launches emerging as defining factors.

As cooler evening conditions settled in, performances became increasingly precise. Several classes saw late-round eliminations decided by minimal margins, reinforcing the importance of consistency rather than outright aggression.

By Jan. 16, the championship picture had grown clearer. Teams with reliable setups and disciplined execution emerged stronger, while others were left reassessing their approach ahead of the final round in March.

Photos from https://www.instagram.com/bah_int_circuit/

The Experience That Keeps Fans Coming Back

What continues to distinguish drag racing at BIC is its immediacy. Spectators stand close enough to feel the vibration of launches and hear gear changes without filters. The paddock remains accessible and conversational, where crew members exchange insights and fans observe the technical realities behind each run.

For those who have followed the championship across seasons, this fourth round felt pivotal. Early-season curiosity gave way to mid-season clarity, as contenders began separating themselves through composure and preparation rather than spectacle.

“The appeal of drag racing here remains its closeness, nothing stands between the fan and the run.”

BDRC Fan

The Farmers Market Returns, and Bahrain’s Winter Rhythm Slows Down

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:25:41 +0000

Winter mornings in Bahrain come with a familiar pull. The air is cooler, the pace softer, and weekends invite a different kind of gathering, one built around fresh produce, shared tables, and unhurried conversation.

The Farmers Market at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain has become one of those seasonal rituals. Returning for its 2026 run from Jan. 9 through Feb. 13, the market once again transforms Friday mornings into something more than a shopping trip. It becomes a meeting point between growers and cooks, families and friends, tradition and modern taste.

Held every Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the market reflects how Bahrain has embraced farmers markets over the years. From smaller neighborhood pop-ups to larger outdoor events, the concept has evolved. What sets the Ritz-Carlton market apart is its balance: curated without feeling staged, lively without losing its sense of ease.

The layout invites wandering. Stalls of winter vegetables—tomatoes, greens, herbs, citrus and strawberries—sit alongside tables of dates, honey, bread and preserves. Breakfast stations serve local favorites, while live cooking counters add warmth and aroma to the open space. Families linger, children move between activity corners, and regulars greet vendors by name.

Compared with other farmers markets across Bahrain, this one leans into atmosphere as much as produce. It is less transactional, more social. People arrive with lists but stay for coffee. They come for vegetables but leave with stories, recommendations and plans for the weekend ahead.

Those who have visited Bahrain’s farmers markets over the years notice the change. The audience has grown more informed. Shoppers ask where produce comes from, how it was grown, and how best to use it. There is a quiet confidence now, an understanding that local, seasonal food is not a trend but part of the lifestyle.

That is where the Farmers Market at The Ritz-Carlton finds its strength. It refines it the concept of a Farmer’s Market. It offers space to slow down, to choose carefully, and to enjoy the simple pleasure of a Friday morning well spent.

For many, the appeal is not just what is on offer, but how it feels. Familiar, dependable, and distinctly Bahraini in its rhythm this is a market people return to, year after year.

“It doesn’t feel like an event you rush through. You arrive for groceries and end up staying for breakfast and conversation.”

Shopper

Photos: https://www.instagram.com/ritzcarltonbahrain/p/DTPZNzHiNPN/

How to Shop the Market Like a Local

• Arrive early. The best produce goes fast, and mornings are cooler and calmer.

• Walk first, buy second. Do a full round before committing quality and prices vary.

• Ask what’s fresh today. Vendors will tell you what was harvested that morning.

• Think in meals, not items. Shop for how you plan to eat, not just what looks good.

• Bring cash. It speeds things up and avoids missed purchases.

• Taste before buying. Sampling is expected and encouraged.

• Save breakfast for last. Shop first, then sit down and enjoy the food scene.

Local tip: If a stall has regulars chatting comfortably with the vendor, it’s worth stopping.

Perfect for travelers looking to balance culture, scenery, and effortless summer living.

Gulf Air Brings Back Geneva and Nice for Summer 2026 Travel

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:50:23 +0000

Summer travel plans for 2026 just became more enticing. Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has confirmed the return of its seasonal flights to Geneva and Nice, reconnecting travelers to two of Europe’s most sought-after summer destinations.

The routes, which include a stop in Milan, are now open for booking and are designed to cater to leisure travelers, families, and holidaymakers planning extended summer getaways.

Flights to Nice (NCE) will operate from May 24 to September 27, 2026, while services to Geneva (GVA) will run between June 5 and September 11, 2026. Both routes will be offered twice weekly, operated using Gulf Air’s Airbus A321neo aircraft, with schedules planned to allow convenient morning arrivals in Europe.

The seasonal return of Geneva and Nice forms part of Gulf Air’s broader summer network, strengthening connectivity through Bahrain International Airport and providing additional travel choices for passengers from Bahrain and across the GCC.

Europe remains a perennial favorite for summer travel, offering a mix of culture, coastline, and cooler climates. Geneva attracts visitors with its alpine scenery, lakeside charm, and access to Switzerland’s outdoor pursuits, while Nice continues to draw travelers to the French Riviera with its Mediterranean beaches, historic old town, and vibrant summer atmosphere.

Airline Focused on Seasonal Demand

Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Martin Gauss said the decision reflects ongoing demand for European destinations during the summer months.

“Europe continues to be a preferred summer travel destination for passengers from Bahrain and the wider region,” Gauss said. “With the return of Geneva and Nice, Gulf Air can offer customers convenient schedules, reliable service, and access to two popular destinations. The focus remains on aligning the network with seasonal demand and customer preferences.”

Looking Ahead to Summer 2026

As Gulf Air continues to review and refine its seasonal offerings, the reinstatement of these routes signals confidence in summer travel demand and a commitment to providing passengers with flexible, well-timed options during peak holiday periods.

Bookings for Geneva and Nice are now available through gulfair.com, the Gulf Air mobile app, the airline’s contact center, and authorized travel agents.

For travelers already dreaming of alpine mornings or Mediterranean sunsets, summer 2026 is officially on the horizon.

Summer Stops Worth Planning For

Perfect for travelers looking to balance culture, scenery, and effortless summer living.

Promenade des Anglais
A Riviera classic—lined with palm trees, beaches, cafés, and sea views that define summer on the Côte d’Azur.
Old Town (Vieux Nice)
Narrow streets filled with local markets, gelato shops, Provençal restaurants, and vibrant Mediterranean energy.
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
A short climb rewarded with sweeping views of Nice’s coastline, harbor, and rooftops—especially striking at golden hour.

Bahrain Football Association and Pakistan Football Federation Seal Strategic Partnership

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:14:52 +0000

Football diplomacy took a meaningful step forward in January 2026, as the Pakistan Football Federation and the Bahrain Football Association formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating football development across both nations.

Signed at the Bahrain Football Association headquarters in Riffa, the agreement signals bilateral cooperation and it reflects a shared vision for building sustainable football ecosystems rooted in technical excellence, governance, and opportunity.

The People Behind

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Sheikh Ali bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Bahrain Football Association Board of Director, and Syed Mohsin Gilani, President of the Pakistan Football Federation. The signing was attended by senior officials from both sides, underscoring the strategic importance of the partnership.

Their shared message was clear, football development today requires collaboration, knowledge exchange, and long-term commitment.

A Step Toward Long-Term Growth

At its core, the cooperation agreement focuses on capacity building and growth across multiple layers of the game:

Technical Development- Joint training camps, friendly matches, and exchanges for national teams and age-group squads

Administration & Governance- Workshops and programs to strengthen football management, legal frameworks, and federation operations

Refereeing & Officiating- Training and certification pathways to raise international standards

Women’s Football- Structured programs designed to grow participation, professionalism, and competitive pathways

Futsal Development- Supporting futsal as a complementary and accessible form of the sport

For Bahrain, the partnership reinforces its role as a regional football leader, exporting expertise built through years of investment in infrastructure, governance, and competition hosting. For Pakistan, the agreement comes at a pivotal moment, offering access to proven systems and international exposure as it continues to rebuild and expand its football ambitions.

More Than A Signature

What sets this MoU apart is its emphasis on implementation. The agreement is designed as a working framework, one that allows both federations to share operational expertise, align development strategies, and co-create programs that produce measurable results.

Bahrain’s experience hosting international tournaments and managing multi-level football operations offers a practical blueprint. Pakistan’s large talent pool and growing grassroots interest present fertile ground for long-term growth when paired with the right structures.

Looking Ahead

The anticipated impact of this cooperation extends beyond friendly matches or short-term exchanges. It represents a step toward regional football integration, where expertise flows across borders and development is viewed as a shared responsibility.

As programs roll out in the months ahead, the agreement is expected to:

Strengthen competitive standards

Create new pathways for players, officials, and administrators

Elevate women’s football participation

Enhance Bahrain’s and Pakistan’s presence on the international football map

In a global game increasingly shaped by collaboration, the Bahrain–Pakistan football partnership stands as a reminder that progress is fastest when knowledge is shared and ambition is collective.

For both nations, this MoU marks a start of cooperation and the beginning of a future where football grows stronger on both sides of the pitch.

Wen W Bkm Festival 6 at Bahrain International Circuit

Cyphrine Labrillazo — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 13:57:10 +0000

Long before it became one of Bahrain’s most anticipated winter fixtures, Wen W Bkm Festival began with a simple idea, t0 create a space where people could gather, browse, eat, and linger without rush. Wen W Bkm loosely translating to “Where and How Much” captures that spirit perfectly. It’s a question asked casually, curiously, and often with a smile, echoing the rhythm of open markets and spontaneous discovery.

Now in its sixth edition, the festival has grown in scale while staying true to its roots. Set against the vast openness of the Bahrain International Circuit, Wen W Bkm Festival 6 unfolds as a winter playground, equal parts marketplace, food hub, and evening escape.

This festival is designed for multiple types of crowds. It’s for families pushing strollers past glowing stalls, for friends drifting between food trucks after sunset, for couples browsing handmade pieces, and for anyone who simply enjoys being outdoors when Bahrain’s winter finally softens the air.

Young entrepreneurs share space with established local brands. Children dart between activity zones while live music hums in the background. The atmosphere feels relaxed, social, and unforced, like a neighborhood gathering.

The Experience

As evening settles in, the festival begins to breathe. Rows of stalls light up, showcasing everything from fashion and accessories to homegrown beauty brands and handcrafted finds. Conversations spill easily between vendors and visitors, punctuated by laughter and the occasional “try this.”

Food is a destination on its own. The scent of grilled meats, sweet desserts, and international comfort dishes drifts through the open space, pulling crowds in different directions. It’s the kind of place where dinner becomes a sequence, one bite here, another there.

Live performances and cultural acts add rhythm to the night, while designated areas keep younger visitors engaged. The layout encourages wandering so you don’t have to arrive with a checklist.

Visit https://www.instagram.com/wenwbkm.bh/ for more stills and videos.

Why It Works

What makes the Wen W Bkm Festival endure is balance. It celebrates local creativity without feeling niche, welcomes visitors without losing its community feel, and offers entertainment without overwhelming the senses. Over six editions, it has evolved into a winter ritual, something people return to year after year because it feels familiar in the best way.

Running from 25 December 2025 to 10 January 2026, and opening daily from late afternoon into the night, the festival fits naturally into Bahrain’s winter rhythm. It’s the kind of place you plan around or stumble into and end up staying longer than expected.

In a season filled with pop-ups and temporary attractions, Wen W Bkm Festival 6 stands out by doing something quietly powerful, creating a space where Bahrain gathers, connects, and enjoys winter exactly as it should be, unhurried, social, and full of small discoveries.

Know Before You Go

📍 Location
Wen W Bkm Festival takes place at the Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir.

📅 Dates
25 December 2025 – 10 January 2026

⏰ Opening Hours
Daily, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM

🎟️ Entry
Family-friendly and open to all ages.

🛍️ What to Expect
160+ stalls featuring local brands, shopping finds, and handcrafted pieces, plus a wide range of food vendors and live entertainment.

🍴 Tip
Come hungry—and plan to snack your way through the night rather than commit to just one meal.

🚗 Getting There
Best reached by car; expect evening crowds, especially on weekends—arrive early for easier parking.

👟 What to Wear
Comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll want to wander.