The neighbourhood of Adliya acts as an independent, bohemian alternative to the commercial centres of Manama, the capital city of Bahrain. It is just as busy, multicultural and urban as the other districts of the city, yet has an artistic and bourgeois flair unmatched by its surrounding neighbourhoods, offering a refreshing insight into the culture of Manama. It is one of the four centres of the city and especially renowned for its nightlife, creativity and independent venues, businesses and shops.
Perhaps the most iconic features of Adliya are its many art galleries, which are scattered around the area in the form of converted old townhouses, which now offer space to native artists in charming venues, displaying the unique local culture. Some of the most notable include the Kalabhavan Bahrain institute and Al Riwaq art space, which show modern, Avant Garde paintings and host exhibitions, installations and sculptures from both touring and permanent collections. In addition to galleries, cafes scatter the neighbourhood of Adliya, and visitors can enjoy local culture by visiting any of them and tasting homemade baked goods, French delicacies and rich, delicious coffees. Exhibition Road is a street of Adliya full of independent shops, perfect for visitors wanting local yet unique souvenirs, fast food restaurants, selling typical cuisine, and bars, offering an experience of the famous district nightlife.
Visitors can navigate Adliya and the wider city of Manama by car, which is easy to navigate for visitors to the area as the city and its neighbourhoods are small. Taxis are also an available means of transport, or visitors can rent a bike to navigate the city and reach Adliya, which is a common way of travelling in Manama.
The greater history of Manama dates back to the 14th century when its original Islamic roots were recorded, and the land was invaded by various nationalities, including the Portuguese and Persians. It became the capital of newly independent Bahrain in 1971. The modern history of Adliya as a bohemian neighbourhood has arisen from the conversion of numerous old townhouses once occupied by British officers, which have been transformed into artistic warehouses, galleries and independent venues.