Moda Mall

Moda Mall is Bahrain's luxury fashion shopping centre, housed in the podium of the Bahrain World Trade Center on King Faisal Highway in Manama. The twin-tower complex, known for the three wind turbines suspended between its towers, is one of the capital's landmark buildings, and the mall at its base targets shoppers looking for high-end labels rather than everyday goods. The retail mix concentrates on designer fashion, luxury watches, jewellery, leather goods, fragrances and accessories from international houses, with a handful of upscale restaurants and cafes. Because the mall is compact and selective, it feels quieter than the large family malls in Seef and Naim, and its emphasis is on brand boutiques and personal service rather than on volume. Authenticity is not a concern in the way it can be in markets, since the boutiques are official brand outlets, and there is no tourist-trinket trade. Prices are fixed and set at luxury levels, so bargaining is not appropriate, although boutiques sometimes run end-of-season sales, particularly in the cooler months and around the summer period. Cards are accepted everywhere, and larger purchases often come with attentive after-sales service. Bahrain applies value added tax to most purchases, and visitors planning high-value purchases should ask the boutique in advance whether any refund process is available and what documents are needed. The atmosphere is calm and polished, with uncrowded corridors for much of the day, and the busiest period is the evening, particularly Thursdays and Fridays. Food options inside the mall are limited to a small number of cafes and restaurants, though the surrounding business district and nearby Bahrain Bay waterfront offer many more choices. Opening hours are typically from 10:00 to 22:00, but boutiques set their own schedules, so visitors should verify with the mall. The location is convenient for travellers staying in the city's business district, and the center is within a short drive of The Avenues Bahrain and Manama Souq. Parking is available in the tower complex and taxis stop at the entrance.