Riffa, the former capital situated in the heart of Bahrain, is now a modern city with a rich historical legacy. The capital of Bahrain until 1869, this city has always had great strategic importance, and is still a centre of power and prestige — it is the home of the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and of the Prime Minister, as well as of a good part of the royal family, government ministers and prominent businessmen. Famous for its impressive desert scenery, springs of pure water, and bustling city life, Riffa offers travellers a unique experience. Among its outstanding attractions are the majestic Riffa Fort, the emblematic Riffa Clock Tower, stylish restaurants, busy markets, and world-class golf courses in the middle of the desert.
The history of the city
Riffa, divided into East Riffa and West Riffa, has historically been a key meeting point in Bahrain. The city’s history dates back to pre-Islamic times, but it was during the Islamic period that Riffa began to gain prominence, especially under the control of the Al Khalifa dynasty from the eighteenth century onwards. This line of ancestry has played a crucial role in the city’s development, establishing Riffa as a political and cultural centre.
Down the centuries, Riffa has seen its importance grow, both as a residential centre for Bahrain’s elite and as a strategic military base. The city is home to the famous Riffa Fort, a historic complex that reflects the power and influence of the Al Khalifa dynasty. Moreover, thanks to its expansion in modern times, Riffa has been able to combine its historic legacy with an urban development that embraces a modern-day infrastructure and services, making the city a vibrant and lively place.
Points of interest
One of the city’s outstanding attractions is Riffa Fort, built in 1812 by Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Khalifa on the foundations of an earlier, seventeenth-century fort built by the Safavid Persian Empire. On the orders of the sheikh, the fort was converted into a residential and defensive complex, and in the nineteenth century it would be the birthplace of Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, who ruled Bahrain between 1869 and 1932. This majestic edifice does not just offer a picture of the city’s historic past: it also affords remarkable, panoramic views over the surrounding desert and the picturesque valley of Al-Haniniya from the Saffron Café. Inside the fort, visitors can explore several exhibitions detailing the history of Bahrain and daily life during the reign of the Al Khalifa dynasty.
Another essential sight in Riffa is the Riffa Clock Tower, an emblematic reference point that has become a symbol of the city. The tower, located in the heart of West Riffa, is testimony to the blend of modernity and tradition that characterises the city. In addition, golfing enthusiasts will find the destination of their dreams in the Royal Golf Club. This world-class golf club offers not only a spectacular golf course, but also luxury facilities for enjoying a full day of activities and relaxation. Lastly, in West Riffa, visitors will also find the Al Hunaynya and Umm Ghwayfa springs, from which there flows what was once considered the purest water in Bahrain.
Where to eat
Riffa is also heaven on Earth for lovers of gastronomy, offering options ranging from traditional Bahraini cuisine to international dishes. For an authentic culinary experience (including local dishes such as machboos and ghoozi, prepared using traditional ingredients), you could try the Mohammed Noor Bokhari Restaurant.
For those who prefer a more international culinary experience, Lanterns Restaurant, famous for its mouthwatering Indian cuisine and its buzzing atmosphere, or David’s Stir Fry Crazy, which serves a wide range of Chinese and Thai dishes, are both highly recommended. In addition, don’t forget to drop into My Cafe Riffa, to enjoy a coffee and pastries in a relaxed, modern ambience.
How to get there
Getting to Riffa is relatively easy, thanks to Bahrain’s modern transport infrastructure. The city is well connected by road, and can easily be reached by a 30-minute drive from Bahrain’s capital, Manama. For those who do not have access to a private vehicle, taxis and transport apps such as Uber and Careem are available.
Public transport is yet another practical option, with several coach companies connecting Riffa with other parts of the island. All this means that travel to Riffa is comfortable and accessible for all visitors, enabling them to explore the city without difficulty.
Nearby attractions
Riffa is not only fascinating in its own right: it is also surrounded by other attractions worth visiting. A few kilometres from the city lies Qal’at al Bahrain, the famous archaeological site recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. At this fort, visitors can immerse themselves deeply in the ancient history of Bahrain, with ruins dating from the Dilmun civilisation.
Another nearby point of interest is the Bahrain International Circuit, the home of the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix. This circuit not only hosts racing events, but also offers experiences for visitors, including guided tours and opportunities to test their driving skills. The nearby attractions are the perfect complement to a visit to Riffa, offering a variety of cultural and historical experiences.
