Why Bahrain (and Other Under-the-Radar Emirates Destinations) Should Be on Your Travel Radar

Emma Gibson • July 4, 2025

The beauty of Bahrain and the lesser-known Middle-Eastern Destinations

If you love the energy of Dubai or the culture and luxury of Abu Dhabi, you’ll already know how special the Middle East is. But beyond those iconic cities, there are even more destinations offering the same warmth and hospitality, with a slightly slower pace and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Bahrain is a brilliant example: authentic, welcoming, and quietly luxurious. With Emirates, Qatar Airways and Gulf Air flying to so many destinations across the Gulf, it’s easier than ever to combine your favourite cities with somewhere new.

Our lovely Travel Den agent Emma recently spent a few nights in Doha followed by six nights exploring Bahrain. Here’s what she thought of her trip, and why these lesser-known spots might just be your next favourite escape.

🛏 Where I Stayed


The Merchant House, Manama

A creative little boutique hotel near the old town, filled with art and character. Its rooftop pool and restaurant make it a peaceful hideaway close to the hustle and bustle.

Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour

Modern and sleek, with incredible views. If you like contemporary and comfortable hotels, this one’s for you.

Radisson Blu, Diplomatic Area

Friendly, easy-going, and well located. It’s not flashy, but it ticks all the right boxes for a comfortable stay.

Raffles Doha

I stopped in Doha for three nights and Raffles absolutely blew me away. The perfect blend of elegance and luxury without the fuss.


🗺 A Super Easy Twin-Centre Escape

One thing that made this trip so relaxing was how simple the travel was. The flight from Doha to Bahrain took just 20 minutes, and both airports were stress-free and smooth. If you’re after a twin-centre break without the usual hassle, this route is a great option, and it opens the door to even more possibilities in the region.


🌟 One for the Bucket List: VIP F1 Tour

A real highlight was the VIP tour of Bahrain’s Formula 1 circuit. Whether you’re into motorsport or not, getting behind the scenes of such an iconic venue is a brilliant experience. Private access, expert guides, and a chance to walk the track – it’s pretty unforgettable.


🍴 What Really Stood Out

Bahrain surprised me with how relaxed and genuine it felt. It’s polished, but not in-your-face. You’ll find beautiful mosques, lively souks, peaceful spas, and fantastic dining, but without the crowds and flashiness that bigger Gulf cities sometimes have.


👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Yes, There Are All-Inclusive Resorts (With Drinks!)

Unlike a lot of the region, Bahrain actually offers true all-inclusive resorts, where your drinks are included too. For families or couples wanting an easy, no-surprises kind of break, it’s a fantastic option.


🏖 Some Favourites to Check Out:


🌍 Other Destinations Worth Flying For (With Emirates)

One of the great things about flying Emirates is how many interesting, off-the-beaten-track destinations they serve. If you’re open to something different, you could combine Bahrain or Doha with one of these lesser-known Emirates routes for a really memorable trip:


Muscat or Salalah, Oman

Swap city skylines for dramatic mountains and quiet beaches. Muscat is rich in culture and natural beauty—and only an hour’s flight from Dubai. If you’re travelling in summer, Salalah is one of the Gulf’s best-kept secrets, with lush green landscapes during the Khareef season (July to September). Perfect for something totally unexpected.


Kuwait City, Kuwait

A city that’s still firmly off most travellers’ radars, but full of history, art, and waterfront charm. Great for culture lovers.

Riyadh or Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Saudi is opening up fast to tourism, and both Riyadh and Jeddah offer a very different take on the Arabian Peninsula. You’ll find modern cityscapes, ancient ruins, and a glimpse of a country in transformation.


Amman, Jordan

Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum are closer than you think. Emirates fly straight into Amman, making it an easy add-on to a Gulf trip.

All of these places are easily reached with Emirates, making them great options for a stopover or a twin-centre trip if you’re looking for something a little different in the Middle East.



✈️ Who’s This Trip For?

Perfect if you’re:


  • A couple looking for somewhere peaceful but luxurious.
  • A family who loves an all-inclusive break where you don’t have to think about extras.
  • A solo traveller after safe, welcoming places to explore.
  • A culture lover wanting more depth than the usual beach-and-brunch Gulf holiday.


Or simply someone who loves Dubai and Abu Dhabi and is ready to try something new!

💛 Final Thoughts


Dubai and Abu Dhabi will always be favourites, but the Middle East has so much more to offer. Bahrain, Doha, Muscat and Salalah bring a different kind of experience—calm, authentic, and just as easy to reach with Emirates.


Ready to plan your next Middle East adventure? Travel Den can help create the perfect trip, whether you’re returning to your favourites or discovering somewhere new for the first time.

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