📖 About Riffa

Riffa is the second-largest city in Bahrain and home to the royal family of the Al Khalifa dynasty. With approximately 120,000 residents, this central Bahrain city is divided into East Riffa (newer, more affluent) and West Riffa (older, more traditional). The Royal Court and many government facilities are located here.

Riffa hosts the Bahrain International Circuit, home of the Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix since 2004. The city features golf courses, shopping centers, and upscale residential areas. Riffa Fort overlooks the valley. Riffa represents Bahrain's royal and governmental center—more residential and traditional than commercial Manama, embodying the kingdom's ruling establishment.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Riffa's economy differs from commercial Manama—it's more residential with government facilities and royal establishments. The F1 circuit brings significant tourism during race season. Golf and leisure developments attract visitors. Retail centers serve residents. The economy is more about serving Bahrain's elite and governmental functions than commercial enterprise.

Bahraini culture is present alongside expatriate communities—Arabic is primary, English widely used. Sunni Islam is official; the royal family is Sunni while many Bahrainis are Shia. Traditional hospitality welcomes visitors. Food features Gulf Arabic cuisine—machboos (rice dishes), fresh fish, and dates. The culture reflects Bahrain's position as a relatively moderate Gulf state with royal traditions.

📜 History

Riffa has ancient settlement history; the fort dates from the 19th century when the Al Khalifa established control. The royal family chose Riffa as their residential base, away from the commercial port of Manama. West Riffa developed around traditional settlements.

Modern development accelerated after independence in 1971. East Riffa grew as planned residential area for affluent families. The Bahrain International Circuit opened in 2004, hosting the first F1 race in the Middle East. Today Riffa serves as Bahrain's royal city—government, royalty, and increasingly modern developments centered on this traditional Bahraini town.