PowerUp City

Bahrain International Airport Climbs Global Ranks, Owns Service Game

Carl John Violeta — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:28:37 +0000

Bahrain continues to strengthen its position on the global aviation map, as Bahrain International Airport secures a place among the world’s top-performing airports in the 2026 Skytrax World Airport Awards.

The airport has been ranked 20th globally, a notable achievement that reflects consistent operational excellence and a steadily rising international reputation. More significantly, it has been named Best Airport Staff in the Middle East for the fifth consecutive year, reinforcing Bahrain’s commitment to service quality at every touchpoint of the passenger journey.

A Benchmark in Service and Efficiency

This recognition goes beyond rankings. It highlights a system that works from streamlined check-in processes to efficient security procedures and well-managed passenger flow. Travelers passing through Bahrain International Airport continue to experience a level of ease and professionalism that sets it apart in a highly competitive region.

At the core of this achievement is the airport’s workforce. The repeated recognition for staff excellence underscores a culture built on consistency, attentiveness, and operational discipline. In an industry where passenger experience often defines reputation, Bahrain has managed to maintain a standard that resonates globally.

Strengthening Bahrain’s Global Position

The accolade also reinforces Bahrain’s growing role as a regional transit hub. Positioned strategically within the Gulf, the airport serves as a key connector between East and West, with increasing importance for both business and leisure travel.

As neighboring hubs continue to expand aggressively, Bahrain’s approach stands out for its balance combining modern infrastructure with a service-first mindset. Rather than competing purely on scale, the focus remains on quality, efficiency, and human experience.

A Consistent Upward Trajectory

This latest recognition is not an isolated milestone but part of a broader trajectory. Since the airport’s modernization and expansion, Bahrain has steadily improved its global standing, attracting both airlines and passengers seeking a smoother, more refined travel experience.

Five consecutive years of recognition for staff excellence signals more than short-term success it reflects a sustainable standard that has been embedded into daily operations.

The Takeaway

Bahrain International Airport’s performance in the 2026 Skytrax Awards confirms what frequent travelers already know: this is an airport that delivers, consistently.

In a landscape dominated by scale and spectacle, Bahrain is proving that precision, professionalism, and people still define world-class travel.

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Gargee’an Returns With a Message of Happiness

Cy — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:13:46 +0000

A cherished Ramadan tradition evolves for 2026

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.

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InterContinental Bahrain Turns Pearl Heritage Into a Ramadan Experience

Riza Castillo — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:34:24 +0000

Manama, Bahrain – The InterContinental Bahrain Ramadan Iftar 2026 opened with an immersive pearl-inspired experience inside the Regency Tent. As part of the invited media, I attended the preview evening to explore this year’s Ramadan theme..

The first thing I noticed was the glow. Soft lighting reflected off pearl-inspired details across the space, giving the entire setting a warmth that felt intentional and intimate.

This Ramadan, InterContinental Bahrain has drawn inspiration from one of the Kingdom’s most meaningful symbols. Pearls. And you feel that story unfolding from the moment you arrive.

Under the theme “Celebrating Heritage, Embracing Togetherness,” the hotel has shaped its Iftar experience around Bahrain’s pearling legacy. The atmosphere felt refined yet welcoming. Conversations flowed easily between fellow media guests, partners, and families as they gathered to break their fast.

The buffet stretched elegantly across live cooking stations, where chefs prepared Ramadan favourites alongside international dishes. The aroma of freshly grilled meats and warm Arabic sweets filled the tent. I found myself pausing more than once, taking in the details before even deciding what to put on my plate. Live Arabic melodies played gently in the background, adding rhythm to the evening without overpowering the room.

In the lobby, the pearl story continued through curated artistic installations. Miracle Publishing House presented a collection of books and photography capturing Bahrain’s maritime past. French-born artist Tiny Om showcased locally sourced pearls that highlighted craftsmanship and authenticity. Nearby, renowned Bahraini sculptor Mahdi AlBannai exhibited sea-inspired pieces that reflected the depth and beauty of the Kingdom’s underwater heritage.

InterContinental Bahrain Ramadan Iftar 2026 Highlights

Beyond the Media Iftar evening, the experience expands into a thoughtfully curated Ramadan calendar. InterContinental Bahrain has shaped the season around elevated hospitality and refined cultural celebration:

Signature Iftar and Ghabga evenings inside the Regency Tent, defined by pearl-inspired interiors, live culinary theatre, and polished service

Ladies Night experiences, offering an intimate and sophisticated Ramadan setting for curated social gatherings

Gergaoun celebrations, styled with festive elegance to honour tradition in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere

Private corporate soirées, fully customised with tailored menus and seamless execution for high-level hosting

Bespoke outdoor catering, extending the hotel’s culinary craftsmanship and Ramadan aesthetic beyond the property

What resonates is the continuity. The pearl narrative flows through every touchpoint, from ambience to presentation, creating a Ramadan season that feels cohesive, elevated, and unmistakably InterContinental.

As the evening drew to a close, what stayed with me was not simply the scale of the buffet or the elegance of the setting. It was the quiet pride woven into every detail. Pearls are formed through time, patience, and resilience. In many ways, that mirrors Ramadan itself.Walking out of the tent, there was a sense of calm reflection. A reminder that heritage is not only remembered. It is experienced, shared, and carried forward. And for one evening in Manama, that story felt beautifully alive.

For reservations and more information, contact +973 17227777 or WhatsApp +973 36967701.

Cherish Ramadan at InterContinental Bahrain.

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Smart Iftar and Suhoor Choices for Better Health During Ramadan

Cy — 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.

Dehydration and Headaches

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.

PowerUp Pick- Iftar Recipe

Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup

The lentil soup recipe is a Ramadan and a Lebanese staple, also referred to as crushed lentil soup it’s made with red lentils, onions, carrots, and rice! Nourishing staple after you fast.

PowerUp Pick- Suhoor Recipe

Mediterranean Egg Wrap

This Mediterranean Egg Wrap is a breakfast sandwich that is packed with protein, color and incredible flavor- perfect for on-the-go mornings!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE IFTAR AND SUHOOR RECIPES

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DGC and BFLC Unite to Build One of Bahrain’s Largest F&B Platforms

Riza Castillo — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:02:33 +0000

Dividend Gate Capital and Bahrain Family Leisure Company formalize a landmark share-swap deal, creating one of Bahrain’s largest F&B platforms.

Seated (from left): Mohamed Khonji, Managing Director of Truffle Hospitality and Founder, Board Member and Managing Director of Dividend Gate Capital (DGC) and Managing Director of Truffle Hospitality, and Ahmed Janahi, Vice Chairman of Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC), Group Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Hotels Group. Standing (from left): Bader Al Shaaban, General Manager of SoleCorp; Khaled Al Hammadi, Director of Truffle Hospitality and Founder, Board Member and CEO of DGC; Farooq AlKhaja, Board Member of Bahrain Family Leisure Company; and Ayman Gadallah, Head of Investment Banking at SICO.

A Defining Moment for the Kingdom’s Hospitality Sector

Bahrain’s food and beverage industry has always been fast-moving. New concepts emerge regularly, and competition keeps operators sharp.

This week, the focus shifted from momentum to structure.

At a signing ceremony at the Gulf Hotel, Dividend Gate Capital and Bahrain Family Leisure Company formalized a share-swap agreement that brings Truffle Hospitality Holding under BFLC’s listed framework. It is the first consolidation of its kind in Bahrain’s F&B sector at a public-company level.

The mechanics are financial. The implications are structural.

From Vision to Platform

Mohamed Khonji, Managing Director of Truffle Holding and Founder, Board Member and Managing Director of Dividend Gate Capital (DGC) answering media questions

Dividend Gate Capital entered hospitality through targeted investments in restaurant concepts with potential. Over time, those assets were consolidated under Truffle Hospitality, forming a centralized platform designed to manage operations cohesively and support scalable growth.

BFLC contributes a listed structure, an established presence in the Kingdom, and a shareholder base closely tied to Bahrain’s hospitality legacy, including Gulf Hotels Group.

Together, the platform will operate more than 20 brands across over 60 outlets in four GCC markets, generating annual revenues exceeding USD 20 million. The scale is significant, but the framework behind it is what positions it differently.

“Transactions of this nature are rare in the hospitality sector, particularly at a listed-company level. This is an opportunity to bring institutional discipline and portfolio thinking into this segment.” — Mohamed Khonji

This Is Where the Game Changes

The agreement reflects a shift already taking shape across the sector. Growth remains essential, but resilience increasingly depends on coordination.

Bringing both portfolios under one listed entity introduces tighter governance, integrated systems, and shared operational oversight. Procurement gains leverage, and expansion becomes more deliberate.

The combined group also moves forward with a debt-free balance sheet, providing flexibility in an industry where margins can narrow quickly.

During the ceremony, Mohamed Khonji described Bahrain as one of the region’s most dynamic F&B markets and a testing ground for concepts with regional potential. That role continues. What evolves now is the operational structure supporting that ambition.

Creative energy built the market. Structure gives it staying power.

The Industry Levels Up

Bahrain’s dining scene has traditionally been driven by entrepreneurial ambition and distinctive brands. This consolidation introduces portfolio strategy as a parallel strength.

Subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, Dividend Gate Capital will become the majority shareholder of BFLC, positioning the combined entity for regional expansion with greater clarity and scale.

The shift is steady rather than dramatic. Hospitality in Bahrain is becoming more organized and more aligned with institutional standards. That evolution influences how capital is deployed and how growth is managed.

Creativity remains central. The systems around it are strengthening.

Closing Perspective

In established markets, scale usually reflects planning rather than chance.

This agreement suggests Bahrain’s F&B sector is entering that stage. The market remains competitive and concept-driven, now supported by stronger coordination and financial clarity.

The significance extends beyond the ceremony. It signals direction.

The industry is building for longevity, and longevity in hospitality depends on thoughtful structure as much as ambition.

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

Cy — 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.

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.

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

Cy — 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.

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

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

Cy — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:14:40 +0000

“You don’t win big matches without first learning how to win the small ones.” —Serena Williams

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.

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

Cy — 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.

A Fixture That Has Grown Without Losing Its Edge

Drag racing in Bahrain has matured, but it has not lost its character. Engines are louder, standards stricter, and competition deeper but the appeal remains rooted in authenticity and access.

That balance explains why the Bahrain Drag Racing Championship continues to draw loyal crowds year after year. Whether attending a single night or following the full four-day progression, Round 4 reaffirmed why the event remains a highlight of Bahrain’s motorsport calendar.

As the season moves toward its conclusion, the stretch from Jan. 13 to 16 will be remembered as the point where momentum solidified and where Bahrain’s drag racing legacy once again proved its staying power.

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

BDRC Fan

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

Cy — 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.

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