Riffa, Bahrain, Zip Code: 915
When I left India for Bahrain almost a decade ago, I never imagined that I would one day call Riffa my home. It’s funny how life unfolds, leading you to places you’ve never thought of, only to find that they resonate with you in ways that are hard to explain. As an Indian tech professional, I’d always envisioned myself settling in one of the bigger tech hubs like Silicon Valley, or maybe even somewhere in Europe. But Bahrain? It wasn’t exactly on my radar.
That changed when an opportunity arose with a tech firm based in Manama, the capital of Bahrain. Excited by the prospect of working in a fast-growing market and curious about the Middle East, I packed my bags and made the move. My initial plan was to stay for a couple of years, build my career, and move on. Little did I know, I would fall in love with the kingdom and, more specifically, with Riffa—a city that has since become my sanctuary.
The Indian Community in Bahrain
Before diving into how Riffa won my heart, let me talk about one thing that made this transition smoother: the Indian diaspora in Bahrain. I was pleasantly surprised to find such a large and vibrant Indian community here. The Indian population in Bahrain is close-knit, with cultural events, religious celebrations, and festivals like Diwali and Holi celebrated with as much enthusiasm as back home.
In Riffa, I found a sense of belonging almost immediately. There’s a large number of Indians living here, and I quickly connected with people who, like me, had moved to Bahrain for work but stayed for the lifestyle. Whether it’s gathering at the local temple for Navratri or enjoying a cricket match at one of the many Indian clubs in the city, the Indian community thrives. It’s comforting to know that even so far from home, I am surrounded by a culture and people that remind me of India.
Discovering Riffa: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Riffa is a city that beautifully balances the past and present. It’s split into two parts: East Riffa and West Riffa. Each side has its own charm, and together they offer a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional Bahraini culture. The first thing that caught my eye in Riffa was the landscape. The city is surrounded by sandy deserts, which may seem monotonous to some, but to me, there’s a kind of serenity in those endless golden dunes. The sunsets here are nothing short of magical. When the sun dips below the horizon, casting shades of pink and orange across the sky, it’s easy to forget the stress of the day.
Riffa Fort
Over time, I found myself exploring the city’s many landmarks. One of my favorite places to visit is Riffa Fort. Built in the 19th century, the fort offers a glimpse into Bahrain’s rich history, and standing atop its walls gives you a panoramic view of the city. You can almost feel the pulse of the kingdom’s past as you walk through its stone corridors.
Another gem is the Royal Golf Club, where I often go to unwind. Even if you’re not into golf, the place is worth a visit for its lush, green landscape that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desert. It’s also a great spot to network with other professionals, both Bahraini and expat.
Food: A Fusion of Flavours
Bahrain, and Riffa in particular, is a food lover’s paradise. What I love most about Riffa’s culinary scene is the mix of traditional Bahraini food with influences from India, Lebanon, and even Europe. The local markets are teeming with spices and flavors that remind me of India. One of my go-to spots is Saffron by Jena, a restaurant that serves traditional Bahraini breakfast dishes. I’ve become obsessed with their balaleet, a sweet-and-savory noodle dish that pairs perfectly with eggs.
Balaleet
On weekends, I often head to one of the many Indian restaurants that dot Riffa’s streets. Places like Saravanaa Bhavan serve authentic South Indian food, and whenever I’m feeling homesick, a plate of dosas or biryani is enough to lift my spirits. The Indian restaurants here are top-notch, and they’ve become my little piece of India in Bahrain.
A Growing Tech Scene
Professionally, Bahrain has proven to be an unexpected but rewarding destination. The tech industry here is growing at a fast pace, driven by the government’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy. I’ve had the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, especially in fintech, as Bahrain positions itself as a leader in this sector. The work environment is collaborative and inclusive, and I’ve found it refreshing to be part of such a dynamic and diverse workforce.
Why Riffa?
What makes Riffa special to me is that it offers the best of both worlds. It’s close enough to Manama to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the capital, yet far enough to provide a quiet, relaxed lifestyle. The city has everything I need—a vibrant community, beautiful landscapes, rich history, and incredible food. Over the years, Riffa has become more than just a place to live; it’s become my home.
Looking back on my journey from India to Bahrain, I can confidently say that Riffa is where I belong. The city has given me a sense of peace, a sense of belonging, and a new perspective on life. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.
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