The Arad Fort in Bahrain is one of the main tourist attractions in the country. Since it was built centuries ago, the structure has never failed to draw in visitors.
Location and How to Get to This Specific Site
The fort is located near the Bahrain international airport at Muharraq. You can reach the city from Manama via the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman, Sheikh Hamad or Sheikh Isa Bin Salma causeway. This will bring you close to the airport and the fort.
What to See There
The fort is ancient, but it remains a visual spectacle during the day. Many people go there during the day to savor its historical value. As wonderful as it appears during that time, it is even more spectacular during the night.
The illumination provided makes it an awe inspiring sight. The fort is not only an attractive site, but its location is quite near other tourist spots.
History
The history of the Arad Fort in Bahrain is still shrouded in mystery. Many historians believe the fort was utilized by the Omanis. This probably took place around the 1800s when they occupied the country. There is a very good reason why this fort would have been used. Its location is strategic, as it is along the Muharraq and Bahrain Island waterways.
There is also evidence that the Portuguese used the fort during the 16th century. Shaikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa also occupied the fort around the 19th century.
It is uncertain as to when the fort was built. Numerous excavations have been done, but very little has been unearthed to determine its construction date. Based on the style though, it appears similar to Islamic forts made during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Cost
If you are a US citizen, you can get a 14 day visa at the airport. The cost is 5 dinar or $13. The taxi fare is $2.65) BD 1.000 plus 0.150 Fils (0.40) per additional km.
Other Info
Temperatures in Bahrain can reach 50 C during the summer (April through August). Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water. If going outside, use an umbrella. Fortunately, bottled water can be bought in stores and restaurants. Look for the “Cold Stores”; they sell a lot of affordable bottled water.
The Arad Fort in Bahrain was restored most recently during the 1980s. The restoration took 3 years. Tree trunks, lime, coral stone and other traditional materials were used. This was to ensure the structure would maintain its integrity.
