Fatherhood has changed. No longer confined to the quiet, stoic figure in the background, today’s fathers are as hands-on as they are heartfelt, as involved as they are inspiring. From guiding first steps to giving wise advice, they’ve stepped up, leaned in and redefined what it means to be a dad.

This Father’s Day, Bahrain This Month pays tribute to the fathers, father figures and mentors who shape our lives in big and small ways. Whether they’re fixing broken toys, sharing bedtime stories or leading by example in the toughest of moments, these men carry the quiet weight of responsibility with love and strength.

In this special feature, we shine a light on the many faces of fatherhood in Bahrain. We’ve spoken to dads from all walks of life, entrepreneurs, artists, teachers, hoteliers and everything in between, to understand what being a father means to them in 2025. Their stories are candid, often humorous and deeply moving.

They speak of the lessons they’ve learned from their children, patience, empathy and how to build LEGO castles under pressure. They talk about the joys of first words, the challenges of sleepless nights and the pride of watching their kids grow into their own. Most of all, they reflect on how fatherhood has changed them: made them softer, stronger, more present and more purposeful.

For some, fatherhood began with late-night bottle feeds and learning how to swaddle. For others, it came later through mentorship or step-parenting. What binds them all is the desire to show up, day after day, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.

We also celebrate the evolving role of dads in today’s families. Many now share responsibilities that were once considered the mother’s domain. They cook, clean, counsel and comfort. They’re visible in school pick-up lines, at weekend activities and on social media, showing the world that care has no gender.

This feature is not just about celebrating biological fathers, but every man who has played a fatherly role, including grandfathers, uncles, brothers, friends, coaches and guardians. Their presence, guidance and love often go unnoticed, but not today.

To every man who’s ever tightened a car seat, patched a scraped knee or offered words of support in a quiet moment: this one’s for you. Happy Father’s Day.
 

Tags #bahrain parenting feature #family life in bahrain #celebrating dads in bahrain #bahrain fatherhood stories #fathers day 2025 bahrain #btm june 2025