Bahrain's premier hub for art and design

More than an exhibition space

Since opening its doors as a commercial gallery in 1998, Al Riwaq quickly expanded into an art space and now, a non-profit hub and campus for art and design. 

Al Riwaq has been at the forefront of Bahrain’s burgeoning art scene by supporting emerging artists, engaging the public, and serving as a permanent home for contemporary, conceptual, and research based practices.

More than an exhibition space, Al Riwaq provides a platform for the exchange of ideas between artists and the public by hosting a wide-ranging calendar of exhibitions, residencies, public art, performances, film screenings, educational programming, talks, and symposiums.

About Us

We lead with learning
Our alternative art education programme goes beyond technical skills. We pair hands-on practice with research and theory – emphasising conceptual depth to develop works that speak to global discourse.

We facilitate exchange
We regularly collaborate with peer institutions on initiatives and exchanges. In parallel to hosting visiting artists for residencies, exhibitions, and knowledge sharing – we’ve also guided Bahraini artists to regional and global stages.

We activate public space
Our flagship public-art festivals place installations, performances, and design markets in civic spaces. By meeting the public where they live and move, we transform everyday Bahrain into a platform for shared creative experience.

We build creative community
Free to visit and designed for connection – our garden, cafe, and art library offer an inclusive space where artists, students, and the culturally curious connect. Throughout the year, our public programming turns casual encounters into dialogue and shared discovery around contemporary art.

Our History

  • 1998

    In 1998, Al Riwaq Art Space opened up in a modest villa in the Adliya district of Manama. Director Bayan Al Barrak Kanoo had an ambitious vision to promote contemporary art and design practices in Bahrain, while simultaneously inserting local artists as major voices in an international discourse.

  • 2002

    By 2002, Al Riwaq had become part of a growing regional network of new emerging art spaces in Cairo, Beirut, Amman, Ramallah and Damascus. Visitors from major international art institutions frequented Al Riwaq, offering exhibition opportunities, residency exchanges, artist talks and workshops.

  • 2011

    In 2011, Al Riwaq launched 'The Market', a public event that partnered with the commercial businesses that were growing rapidly in the Adliya district. The result was a huge success; the merger of art and cultural activities into the public sphere of the community.

  • 2012–2018

    The Nest, Al Riwaq's premiere cultural event celebrating public art and design, is the ultimate development of Market 338 and Alwan 338 Initiatives. The Nest and the previous editions of Market 338 and Alwan 338 have transformed the Block 338 area into a hub for public art, design, live music, critical talks, film screenings, a local and regional design market, exhibitions, and relevant workshops.

  • 2018–2020

    As the role and presence of Al Riwaq grew over the years, making its landmark in the local and regional art scene, Al Riwaq's commitment to community engagement grew more. Efforts to establish a more structured art-education programmes became a priority for Al Riwaq, alongside the exhibitions, and artist engagement events and opportunities. During the pandemic, from 2020-2022, Al Riwaq committed to maintaining their educational offer virtually.

  • 2022–Present

    In 2022, Al Riwaq moves into the historic Bank House in Gufool, Manama, where they launched Application 001, pilot residency programme, as well as 'Majal 1.0', their first design incubation programme. From the new location, which brings back the Cafe, Library, and adds new co-working, studio and workshop spaces, Al Riwaq maintains their commitment as an open space for discussion, learning, research, experimentation and growth.

Mission 

A leading non-profit arts organisation dedicated to nurturing and promoting contemporary art and design practices in Bahrain.

Vision 

Al Riwaq is a hub for art and culture that supports emerging and established practices, enhancing Bahrain standing within the art world, both regionally and globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Would I need to purchase tickets to visit the Gallery?

Al Riwaq gallery and most events are free of charge. Except for workshops and courses.

Where is Al Riwaq located?

We are located at the heart of Manama, Bahrain. Specifcally in AlGuful neighbourhood.

I want to visit Al Riwaq, what should I expect?

There is so much to do at Al Riwaq! If you're looking to learn new skills we offer monthly programs: workshops, courses, talks and panel discussion. For coffee or a quick bite you could visit our café. You could take stroll in our gardens. Check out our library for a relaxing read. For fun join our events, and you could explore art works all over the house and so much more..."

How can I organise a workshop at Al Riwaq?

Please fill out Workshop Form here and we will get back to you as soon as possible!