Top 10 Book Publishing Companies in Manama 2025

Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, has long been recognized as the country’s cultural and commercial heart. While known for its thriving financial sector and dynamic trade networks, Manama has also become a growing hub for literature and publishing. Over the past decade, publishing companies in Manama have expanded their reach, catering to both Arabic and English-speaking audiences while supporting local talent and providing platforms for regional and international writers.

The publishing industry here is diverse. It includes full-service ghostwriting and publishing firms, traditional print houses, and companies that specialize in magazines, directories, and educational material. 

1. Barnett Ghostwriting

Barnett Ghostwriting stands out as a comprehensive writing and publishing partner. Known primarily for its ghostwriting services, the company also offers full publishing support, making it a go-to choice for authors who prefer a managed experience.

• Overview: Offers complete publishing services from idea development to book release.

• Services:
  • Ghostwriting across fiction, memoir, and business genres

  • Professional editing and proofreading

  • Cover design and formatting

  • Print-on-demand and distribution guidance

• Unique Aspect: The one-stop-shop model makes it ideal for authors who want guidance throughout the process without having to coordinate multiple vendors.

Barnett Ghostwriting’s approach is especially valuable for professionals, entrepreneurs, or individuals with strong ideas but limited time to write or navigate the publishing process.

2. Fanar Publishing Co. W.L.L.

Fanar Publishing is one of Manama’s more established publishers, known for producing periodicals, trade journals, and selected books.

• Overview: Strong roots in magazine and directory publishing with occasional trade book ventures.

• Services:
  • Periodical and directory production

  • Editorial project management

  • Advertising and distribution coordination

• Unique Aspect: Fanar has decades of experience in Bahrain’s publishing scene, offering expertise in publishing content aimed at professional sectors and niche readerships.

3. Gulf International Publications W.L.L.

Gulf International Publications has carved a reputation as a reliable publisher for corporate and business-related publications. While it handles magazines and reports, the company has also moved into select book publishing projects.

• Overview: Corporate-focused publishing with a track record in professional content.

• Services:
  • Production of annual reports, corporate histories, and professional manuals

  • High-quality printing services

  • Distribution within institutional and business networks

• Unique Aspect: GIP is especially suited for organizations and authors aiming to publish business or industry-specific works.

4. World Window Publishing

World Window Publishing functions both as a bookstore and as a small press. Its dual role allows it to publish and promote authors locally.

• Overview: Hybrid publisher and retailer that supports local voices.

• Services:
  • Small print runs and custom publishing

  • Retail placement in its store

  • Hosting author events and book launches

• Unique Aspect: Direct community engagement through events and retail sales makes this publisher appealing for new and local authors.

5. Fanar Press & Publishing Company W.L.L.

Separate from Fanar Publishing, Fanar Press specializes in producing niche journals and magazines, often in specific professional or academic fields.

• Overview: Longstanding publisher with sector-specific experience.

• Services:
  • Professional and academic journal production

  • Editorial and design support

  • Advertising coordination

• Unique Aspect: Known for working with experts and professionals, Fanar Press ensures content accuracy and polished presentation in specialist publications.

6. Al Waraqoon W.L.L. (Printing & Publishing)

Al Waraqoon combines traditional printing with publishing services, offering local authors a practical option for book production.

• Overview: A reliable press providing high-quality printing and limited publishing support.

• Services:
  • Offset and digital printing

  • Book design and layout

  • Guidance with ISBN and registration

• Unique Aspect: Strong emphasis on print quality and efficient service for authors requiring physical book production.

7. Masaa Publishing

Masaa Publishing focuses primarily on Arabic-language works, though it has also managed bilingual projects. It plays an important role in preserving and promoting cultural and educational texts.

• Overview: Arabic-first publisher specializing in cultural and educational material.

• Services:
  • Translation and Arabic editorial support

  • Educational publishing

  • Marketing within Arabic-speaking communities

• Unique Aspect: Cultural and linguistic expertise that ensures authenticity and accessibility for Arabic readers.

8. Al Fajr Printing and Publishing House W.L.L.

Al Fajr is another hybrid printer-publisher, offering high-quality production and selective publishing opportunities.

• Overview: Known for efficient, large-scale print runs and practical publishing assistance.

• Services:
  • Professional printing and binding

  • Book formatting and design

  • ISBN and legal deposit assistance

• Unique Aspect: Offers speed and reliability, making it well-suited for projects with strict deadlines.

9. Red House Marketing / Publishing Services

Red House focuses heavily on marketing, providing services to authors who need support with visibility and outreach in the Gulf region.

• Overview: Publishing support company with strong marketing orientation.

• Services:
  • Publicity campaigns and event management

  • Retail placement and distribution

  • Editorial and design services on request

• Unique Aspect: Best for authors who already have a finished manuscript and want help reaching readers and building visibility.

10. Newspaper-Affiliated Presses (Akhbar Al Khaleej, Al Ayam)

Some of Bahrain’s largest newspapers, including Akhbar Al Khaleej and Al Ayam, operate presses that occasionally publish compilations and books.

• Overview: Media-based publishers with strong distribution networks.

• Services:
  • Compilation of journalistic works into book form

  • Publishing of memoirs and public affairs books

  • Wide distribution through media channels

• Unique Aspect: Access to large media audiences, making them useful for authors tied to current affairs or journalism.

How to Choose the Right Publisher in Manama

When selecting a publisher in Manama, authors should consider:

1. Goal of the book – Whether it’s a novel, memoir, or corporate report, different publishers specialize in different niches.

2. Language – Arabic-focused publishers are best for regional works, while bilingual publishers serve both local and international audiences.

3. Services required – Some publishers offer full-service support, while others focus on printing or marketing only.

4. Budget and timeline – Costs vary depending on editing, printing, and distribution needs. Authors should seek itemized quotes.

Cost and Timeline Overview

• Editing and Proofreading: 4–12 weeks, cost varies by manuscript length.

• Design and Formatting: 2–6 weeks, moderate cost.

• Printing: 2–6 weeks, depending on print run size.

• Marketing and Distribution: Ongoing, often the most variable in cost.

Conclusion

In 2025, Manama’s publishing industry reflects a balance of tradition and modernity, offering writers a diverse set of options ranging from full-service firms like Barnett Ghostwriting to established presses, small independent houses, and marketing-driven agencies. Each publisher contributes uniquely to Bahrain’s literary culture, ensuring that whether an author seeks professional journals, Arabic literature, or global distribution, there is a suitable partner available. This variety not only supports local talent but also reinforces Manama’s role as a growing cultural and publishing hub in the Gulf region.