# Tree of Life (شجرة الحياة)

Desert & Nature · Sakhir · South Bahrain

A lone tree roughly 440 years old stays green on a sandy rise in the Sakhir desert, kilometres from any known water source.

The Tree of Life, Shajarat al Hayat, is a single tree standing nearly 10 metres tall on a sandy hill in the southern Sakhir desert, about 2 kilometres from Jebel Dukhan. Bahrain's tourism authority describes it as a ghaf, a tree of the acacia family, though many guides call it a mesquite. Its long, twisting branches reach down to the sand and its leaves stay green all year.

Its age is usually put at around 440 years, with planting commonly dated to the 1580s. What makes it remarkable is the setting: rainfall here is about 150 mm a year and the closest water source is several kilometres away. How the roots find enough water is still debated, which has helped make the tree one of Bahrain's best known sights.

A visitor centre near the tree explains its story and shows finds from the area, where archaeologists have recorded remains of settlements and Dilmun era material. A circular fence protects the trunk and carries an educational path about famous trees around the world. A small amphitheatre seating up to 500 people sometimes hosts outdoor performances, and Pope Francis referred to the tree during his 2022 visit.

The site suits a short stop on a desert drive, sunset photos or a family outing. It sits close to Jebel Dukhan, the first oil well and Bahrain International Circuit, so it is easy to combine. Some visitors bring a little water to pour at the roots, which the tourism authority says is welcome.

## Highlights
- Tree about 440 years old in open desert
- Nearly 10 metres tall, green all year
- Visitor centre with local archaeology
- Amphitheatre for occasional outdoor events
- Open 6am to 10pm daily per Bahrain Tourism
- Close to Jebel Dukhan and the first oil well

## Good to know
- Bahrain Tourism lists opening hours as 6am to 10pm every day (bahrain.com).
- The tree is fenced, so you view it from the path rather than climbing it.
- There is little shade nearby, so bring water and sun protection in warmer months.
- Sunset is popular for photos; weekends can be busy.

## Key facts
- Area: Sakhir
- Region: Central south
- Height: About 10 m
- Age: Over 400 years
- Best time: December to March
- Best time: November to March, late afternoon
- Coordinates (approximate): 25.9944, 50.5834

## FAQ
**How old is the Tree of Life in Bahrain?**
It is estimated to be around 440 years old, with its planting usually dated to the 1580s.

**How does the Tree of Life survive without water?**
No one is fully sure. The area gets about 150 mm of rain a year and the nearest water source is several kilometres away, so deep roots reaching underground moisture are the usual explanation.

**What are the Tree of Life opening hours?**
Bahrain Tourism lists the site as open from 6am to 10pm every day. Check bahrain.com before a holiday visit in case of changes.

**Is there anything else to see at the Tree of Life?**
Yes. A visitor centre explains the tree and nearby archaeological finds, and a small amphitheatre hosts occasional performances.

Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/tree-of-life/