Bahrain's most popular malls remained opened Friday with only a handful of visitors showing up despite assurances by authorities that normalcy returned in key areas.

Majority of the shops in Seef Mall and Bahrain Mall continued to be closed except a few popular eating outlets that were catering to customers.

The parking lot was empty while the malls were generally deserted. Security staff were present at all main entrances of the malls and were on alert throughout the day.

In some residential areas in the capital, Interior Ministry's security guards were present while police patrol teams toured different parts of the country to ensure safety of citizens and residents.

There were also no big queues at petrol stations or supermarkers unlike the rush on Thursday. LuLu Hypermarket in Riffa and A'ali were open with shoppers stocking up on dairy products and vegetables.

Another place in Manama that was bustling with movement was the Central Market, where foreign workers were loading and unloading fruits and vegetables.

Traders were positive in the coming days they would have enough stock of items as well customers, including wholesale and retailers visiting the market.

"This market was opened every once in a while since last month by some traders and was then closed for days," said Sayed Nahj, who runs a store selling dry fruits and fresh vegetables.

"Now, we can have the trucks back in the parking lot unloading goods and people buying items. My only concern is that some people will be scared to come here with certain restriction and check-points in this area,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service