Temples & religious sites
Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia
Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia
Located in Riffa, this Roman Catholic cathedral serves as the seat of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia. It is the largest Catholic church on the Arabian Peninsula, making it a significant site for those interested in religious architecture and the presence of Christianity in the Gulf region.
Getting There
The cathedral is situated in the Riffa area. From the center of Manama, the most efficient way to reach the site is by taxi or rental car. The drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to explore the interior and the surrounding grounds. This provides sufficient time to observe the scale of the building and its architectural details.
When to Visit
To avoid the extreme heat of the region, visit during the cooler winter months. Morning visits are generally preferred to avoid the midday sun. The site may become crowded during major Catholic holidays and feast days.
Nearby Attractions
The cathedral can be combined with other local sites in Riffa and the surrounding area:
- Bahrain (1.4km)
- Al-Sakhir Palace (2.6km)
- Mountain of Smoke (4.5km)
- Bahrain Island (4.8km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors