Places to Visit in Bahrain

The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) in Bahrain is approximately 400 years old, a 9.75 m (32 ft) high Prosopis cineraria[1] tree located 2 km (1.2 mi) from Jebel Dukhan. The tree stands on top of a 7.6 m (25 ft) high sandy tell formed around a 500-year-old fortress.

The tree is a local tourist attraction, as it is the only major tree growing in the area. The tree is visited by approximately 50,000 tourists every year, and the tree often is damaged by graffiti carvings. It is also believed to be the site for cults practising ancient rites. Since October 2010, archaeologists have unearthed pottery and other artefacts in the vicinity of the tree, some of which may date back to the Dilmun civilisation. [citation needed]

Trees and shrubs of Prosopis genus are extremely well adapted to arid environments with one of the deepest known root systems.

Located on the stunning island of Muharraq and with direct access to a pristine beachfront, Marassi Al Bahrain makes the most of its waterfront location. Experience the best of waterfront living by participating in one of the many exhilarating water sports and activities on offer at Marassi Beach.

At Marassi Al Bahrain you are never more than a few minutes away from the sea, with easy access to an array of activities which can be enjoyed by all members of the family. Thrill seekers will be drawn to the crystal clear waters to enjoy activities ranging from banana boats to doughnuts, parasailing, paddle boats, and kayaks.

Adrenaline junkies in search of their next adventure can rejoice with a selection of parasailing, water park and pool, cable wakeboarding, knee boarding and jet boards. Whether searching for a new experience or looking to take on a new hobby, Marassi Beach has it all.

For those who prefer to stay on the shore, bungee trampolines and the volleyball court await. Marassi Beach also provides the ideal location for family gatherings and picnics, with idyllic views overlooking pristine Bahraini waters.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is an ultramodern motorsport facility that is located in the heart of the Sakhir desert. Designed by the renowned German engineer Hermann Tilke, the circuit incorporates many features of local culture.

Costing approximately $150 million, the entire facility took less than 18 months to build, quite a feat considering the massive undertaking that was needed to develop the land.

BIC features five FIA-certified track layouts, more than anywhere else in the world. This allows the circuit to host a range of motor racing events. The 5.412-kilometre Grand Prix Track regularly hosts international races, including the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the FIA World Endurance Championship Six Hours of Bahrain, races in the GP2 Series, and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.

Indulge in tours of art galleries or art museums such as the La Fontaine Center of Contemporary Art, Manama. You can also shop for fine fabrics and fresh flowers at the local market, or Capital Mall where you can buy handmade crafts.

Hawar Island is a resort community with several beach hotels. Activities on the island include jet-skiing, biking, golfing, and spa treatments.

Riffa is home to several museums such as the Bahrain Military Museum, the Dilmun Burial Grounds, and the Clock Tower. On your trip to this city, you can also visit Riffa Fort, the former home of the royal family, Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh. From this sandstone building that sits on a hill, you can enjoy views of the countryside.

Bab Al Bahrain is located at the entrance to the Manama Suq in Bahrain’s capital city, Manama. Built in 1949, it once housed the government’s administrative offices and overlooked the sea.

Bab Al Bahrain has undergone many big changes over the years, but the Ministry of Culture undertook a project to preserve it as a cultural landmark and thus restored it to its former glory and eventually moved its tourism sector offices and visitors’ centre into the building.

Behind Bab Al Bahrain is the old Manama Suq. The suq is a vibrant collection of shops offering a wide range of goods from textiles, spices, incense, perfumes, handicrafts, and souvenirs, as well as more modern products from all over the world. There are also several traditional coffee shops.

The suq offers a unique shopping experience that brings to mind the style of commerce from days long past. The Manama Suq is a must visit while in Bahrain that visitors will be sure to enjoy.