# South Bahrain: full content Generated 2026-10-20. Source: https://bahrainsouth.com # Thrills & Events in South Bahrain Formula 1 at Sakhir, concerts in a quarry, indoor skydiving and adventure parks. The south is where Bahrain comes to play. - [Bahrain International Circuit](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bahrain-international-circuit/): The kingdom's motorsport home in the Sakhir desert, with a Formula 1 circuit, drag strip, karting track and event spaces. - [Bahrain International Karting Circuit](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/karting-at-bic/): Outdoor karting at Bahrain International Circuit with kids, adult and double-seater sessions, plus arrive-and-drive racing. - [Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/al-dana-amphitheatre/): A 10,000-capacity outdoor concert venue carved into the desert rock beside Bahrain International Circuit. - [Exhibition World Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/exhibition-world-bahrain/): Bahrain's largest exhibition and convention centre, in Sakhir, hosting trade shows, consumer fairs and large events. - [Drag and Drift Nights at BIC](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bic-drag-and-drift-nights/): Bring your own car or motorbike to run the quarter-mile drag strip or drift in the vehicle dynamics area. - [Bahrain International Airshow](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bahrain-international-airshow/): A biennial aerospace show at Sakhir Air Base. The November 2026 edition was postponed to November 2028. - [Gravity Village](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/gravity-village/): A leisure complex in Zallaq built around Bahrain's only indoor skydiving wind tunnel, with cafes and adventure activities. - [Gravity Indoor Skydiving](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/gravity-indoor-skydiving/): Bahrain's only vertical wind tunnel, where first-timers and pros fly in a 12-metre glass chamber. - [Bear Grylls Adventure Zone](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bear-grylls-adventure-zone/): Survival-skills challenges designed by the Bear Grylls Survival Academy at Hawar Resort, for kids aged 6 to 12 and adults. - [The Crag Rock Climbing](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/the-crag-rock-climbing/): An outdoor climbing wall complex at Gravity Village in Zallaq, open in the afternoons and evenings. - [Up and Down Trampoline Park](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/up-and-down-trampoline-park/): Indoor trampoline park at Wadi Al Sail Mall in Riffa, with foam pits and a party room, for ages five to 50. - [Cineco Wadi Al Sail](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/cineco-wadi-al-sail/): Riffa's cinema, a Cineco multiplex inside Wadi Al Sail Mall, opened in 2016. - [Southern Celebrations Festival](https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/southern-celebrations-festival/): A free December heritage festival by the Southern Governorate in Riffa, with folk arts, crafts and traditional coffee. --- # Beaches & Water in South Bahrain Natural beaches, west-coast sunsets, wild islands, wakeboarding and a new surf park. Every way to enjoy the water in the south. - [Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/bilaj-al-jazayer-beach/): Bahrain's best-known public beach on the south-west coast, temporarily closed since April 2026 for an upgrade. - [Zallaq coast](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/zallaq-beach/): The calm west-coast shoreline around Zallaq village, lined with resorts and known for sunsets over the sea. - [Janat Dilmun Water Park](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/lost-paradise-of-dilmun/): Bahrain's only water park, formerly The Lost Paradise of Dilmun, reopened in 2026 after a major upgrade. - [Bahrain Surf Park, Club Hawaii Experience](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/surf-park/): The Middle East's first Wavegarden Cove surf park, under construction at Bilaj Al Jazayer. Not yet open. - [Hawar Islands](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/hawar-islands/): A protected desert archipelago off Bahrain's south-east, home to huge seabird colonies and dugongs. - [Askar and Jaw coast](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/askar-and-jaw-coast/): The quiet south-east shoreline of fishing villages between Askar and Jaw, on the road to Durrat Al Bahrain. - [Fasht Al Adhm](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/fasht-al-adhm/): A wide, shallow reef bank off Bahrain's east coast, used for snorkelling and boat trips. - [Boat to Hawar from Durrat Al Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/hawar-boat-trip/): The only regular way to reach the Hawar Islands: a 25-minute boat from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion. - [Hawar dolphin and dugong boat safari](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/hawar-oceanic-safari/): Boat trips from Hawar Resort into the surrounding waters to look for dolphins and endangered dugongs. - [Bahrain Wake](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/bahrain-wake/): Bahrain's first cable wake park, at Durrat Al Bahrain, with lessons for beginners and sessions for experienced riders. - [Durrat Marina](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/durrat-marina/): The marina at Durrat Al Bahrain, at the island's southern tip, used for private boats, jet skis and yacht charters. - [Azure Beach Club Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/azure-beach-club-bilaj/): A planned beach club with Greek restaurant Ammos at Bilaj Al Jazayer, run by Dubai's Sunset Hospitality Group. Opening unconfirmed. --- # Desert & Nature in South Bahrain Desert reserves, the Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan and the winter camping season. The wild, open side of Bahrain. - [Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve (Al Areen Wildlife Park)](https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/al-areen-wildlife-park/): Bahrain's main wildlife park, founded in 1976 and renamed in December 2025, with Arabian oryx, gazelles and birds. - [Tree of Life](https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/tree-of-life/): A lone ghaf tree about 400 years old, growing on a sand ridge in the desert with no visible water source. - [Jebel Dukhan](https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/jebel-dukhan/): Bahrain's highest point, a low limestone hill in the oil fields at about 134 metres above sea level. - [Sakhir camping season](https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/sakhir-desert-camping/): Every winter families pitch desert camps in Sakhir under a registration system run by the Southern Governorate. - [Sakhir desert trips](https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/sakhir-desert-safari/): Guided 4x4 trips into the Sakhir desert that combine dune driving, sandboarding and stops at the Tree of Life. --- # Heritage in South Bahrain Where Bahrain's modern story began: the first oil well, Awali, Riffa Fort and the landmarks of the south. - [Oil Well No. 1](https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/oil-well-no-1/): The first oil well on the Arab side of the Gulf, struck in 1932 below Jebel Dukhan. - [Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort (Riffa Fort)](https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/riffa-fort/): A restored 1812 fort overlooking the Hunainiya valley in Riffa. Currently closed for renovation. - [Awali](https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/awali/): Bahrain's 1930s oil company town, with low bungalows, green gardens and the Gulf's oldest golf club. - [Bahrain Oil Museum](https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/bahrain-oil-museum/): A small Bapco museum beside Oil Well No. 1 telling the story of oil in Bahrain. - [Sakhir Palace](https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/sakhir-palace/): A royal palace in the Sakhir desert, seen from the outside only on drives through the south. --- # Golf & Riding in South Bahrain Championship golf, horse racing, endurance riding, stadiums and the circuit. The south is Bahrain's sporting heart. - [Royal Golf Club](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/royal-golf-club/): Bahrain's only grass championship golf course, redesigned by Colin Montgomerie, inside the Riffa Views community. - [Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/rashid-equestrian-club/): Bahrain's national racecourse between Riffa and Sakhir, with weekly race meetings through the winter season. - [Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-grand-prix/): Bahrain's Formula 1 race at Sakhir, usually held in spring. The 2026 edition was cancelled at Sakhir. - [Bapco Energies 8 Hours of Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/wec-8-hours-of-bahrain/): The FIA World Endurance Championship season finale at Sakhir. The November 2026 round was cancelled; Bahrain stays on the calendar. - [Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-championship-golf/): Bahrain's DP World Tour golf event, played each winter at the Royal Golf Club. - [Awali Golf Club](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/awali-golf-club/): The oldest golf course in the Gulf, an all-sand desert layout with oiled sand greens called browns. - [Bahrain International Endurance Village](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-international-endurance-village/): The Sakhir base for endurance horse riding, hosting national and international rides up to 160 km. - [Bahrain National Stadium](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-national-stadium/): The country's largest football stadium, home to the national team, in North Riffa. - [Padel Park, Gravity Village](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/padel-park-gravity-village/): Padel courts at Gravity Village in Zallaq, open from afternoon until late and booked through an app. - [Batelco Fitness on Track](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/batelco-fitness-on-track/): Community nights when runners, walkers and cyclists use the Bahrain International Circuit tracks under floodlights. - [Al-Riffa Sports Club](https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/al-riffa-sports-club/): One of Bahrain's most successful football clubs, founded in 1953 and playing at the Bahrain National Stadium. --- # Stay in South Bahrain Desert palaces, beach resorts and island hideaways. Where to stay in the south of Bahrain. - [Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/raffles-al-areen-palace/): An all-villa Raffles resort in the Al Areen desert, with private pools and butler service in every villa. - [Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa](https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/jumeirah-gulf-of-bahrain/): A beach resort on Jazaer Beach in Zallaq, opened in late 2022, with a Talise spa and family facilities. - [Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa](https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/sofitel-zallaq/): A beachfront resort on the west coast with a Thalassa seawater spa and a private beach. - [Hawar Resort by Mantis](https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/hawar-resort-by-mantis/): An island resort on Hawar, opened in January 2025, reached by a 25-minute boat ride from Durrat Al Bahrain. - [Avani and Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer resorts](https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/avani-tivoli-bilaj-al-jazayer/): Two Minor Hotels resorts under development on the Bilaj Al Jazayer waterfront. Not yet open. --- # Live in the South in South Bahrain Gated green communities, beachfront apartments and the towns of the south. Where Bahrain is growing next. - [Tilal Al Areen](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/tilal-al-areen/): A private, green, gated villa community five minutes from the beach. Freehold. - [Tivoli Residences](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/tivoli-residences/): The only new apartment project in the south, on Bahrain's natural beach. Handover February 2027. - [Durrat Al Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/durrat-al-bahrain/): A chain of man-made islands at Bahrain's southern tip with villas, beaches, a marina and the boat link to Hawar. - [Riffa Views](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/riffa-views/): Bahrain's first master-planned golf community, a gated estate of villas around the Royal Golf Club. - [Bilaj Al Jazayer](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/bilaj-al-jazayer/): Edamah's waterfront masterplan on the south-west coast, combining the public beach, hotels, homes and the surf park. - [Al Areen Development](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/al-areen-development/): The wider Al Areen masterplan of homes, resorts and leisure around the nature reserve and water park. - [Riffa](https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/riffa/): The southern city split into East and West Riffa, home to the old fort, the National Stadium and leafy villa districts. --- # Learn in South Bahrain The national university, international schools and universities across Sakhir and Riffa. - [University of Bahrain, Sakhir campus](https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/university-of-bahrain/): The kingdom's national university, with its main campus in Sakhir near Bahrain International Circuit. - [Royal University for Women](https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/royal-university-for-women/): Bahrain's first private university for women, on a 224,000 square metre campus off Muaskar Highway. - [St Christopher's School, Senior School](https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/st-christophers-senior/): St Christopher's new senior campus in the Riffa area, opened in September 2026 after the Isa Town campus closed. - [Riffa Views International School](https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/riffa-views-international-school/): An American-standards international school located inside the Riffa Views community. - [American University of Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/american-university-of-bahrain/): A private American-style university in Riffa with a 75,000 square metre campus and sports centre. - [American School of Bahrain](https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/american-school-of-bahrain/): An American-curriculum school in North Riffa, close to the Bahrain National Stadium. --- # Shop & Dine in South Bahrain Malls, souqs and shows across Riffa and Sakhir. - [Riffa Souq](https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/riffa-souq/): The traditional market of Riffa, with small shops for fabrics, spices, household goods and everyday needs. - [Enma Mall](https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/enma-mall/): One of Riffa's main shopping malls, with a supermarket, fashion stores, food court and family entertainment. - [Wadi Al Sail Mall](https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/wadi-al-sail-mall/): A community mall in Riffa with a hypermarket, a Cineco cinema and Up and Down trampoline park. - [Jewellery Arabia](https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/jewellery-arabia/): The Gulf's big annual jewellery and watch show, held each November at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir. --- # Bahrain International Circuit (حلبة البحرين الدولية) Thrills & Events · Sakhir · South Bahrain Bahrain International Circuit in the Sakhir desert opened in 2004 as the first Formula 1 venue in the Middle East and runs motorsport and track experiences all year. Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) sits in the Sakhir desert in the south of the island. It opened in 2004, when Bahrain became the first country in the region to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. The circuit has five track layouts, and the Grand Prix layout runs to 5.412 km. Alongside the main track there is a quarter-mile drag strip, a karting circuit and a vehicle dynamics area used for drifting. You do not need a race ticket to visit. BIC sells open track sessions where you bring your own car or motorbike, circuit tours, a dragster passenger ride, an off-road experience and karting. During race weekends the site turns into an entertainment hub with concerts and family activities, and it hosts festivals, car launches and local championships through the year. 2026 has been an unusual year. The April 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix was called off because of the regional situation, and Formula 1 instead held the race at Sepang in Malaysia on 2 to 4 October 2026, officially named the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The November 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship 8 Hours of Bahrain was also cancelled. Racing returns to Sakhir in 2027. The official Formula 1 ticket store lists the 2027 Bahrain Grand Prix for 12 to 14 March 2027, and the race is contracted to stay on the calendar until 2036. The WEC is due back for its season finale in November 2027. Local events such as drag nights and karting continue to run at the circuit. ## Highlights - Book an open track session in your own car or on your motorbike - Take a guided circuit tour behind the scenes - Ride as a passenger in a dragster on the quarter-mile strip - Race karts on the 1.414 km Bahrain International Karting Circuit - Watch the Bahrain Grand Prix, back on 12 to 14 March 2027 - Catch a Drag and Drift Night on selected Monday evenings ## Good to know - The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix was held in Malaysia and the 2026 WEC 8 Hours of Bahrain was cancelled; ticket holders were refunded automatically. - 2027 Grand Prix tickets were on an official waitlist in October 2026, so check reseller dates against the official 12 to 14 March weekend. - Experiences such as open track days, tours and karting are booked through bahraingp.com. - Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre and Exhibition World Bahrain sit next to the circuit, so check event days for traffic. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Opened: 2004 - Major series: Formula 1, FIA World Endurance Championship - Website: bahraingp.com - Best time: October to March for track events; the Grand Prix is on 12 to 14 March 2027 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.0325, 50.5106 - Website: https://www.bahraingp.com ## FAQ **Was the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix held at Bahrain International Circuit?** No. The April 2026 race was cancelled because of the regional situation and was held at Sepang in Malaysia on 2 to 4 October 2026 as the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. **When is the next Bahrain Grand Prix?** The official Formula 1 ticket store lists the 2027 Bahrain Grand Prix for 12 to 14 March 2027 at Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir. **Can I drive my own car at Bahrain International Circuit?** Yes. BIC runs open track sessions for cars and motorbikes, plus Drag and Drift Nights on the drag strip and vehicle dynamics area. Book through bahraingp.com. **When did Bahrain International Circuit open?** The circuit opened in 2004 and hosted the first Formula 1 Grand Prix in the Middle East that year. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bahrain-international-circuit/ --- # Bahrain International Karting Circuit (حلبة البحرين الدولية للكارتينغ) Thrills & Events · Sakhir · South Bahrain The Bahrain International Karting Circuit in Sakhir runs pre-booked kart sessions for children from seven and adults on a 1.414 km track with 14 turns. The Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) is part of the Bahrain International Circuit complex in Sakhir. The outdoor track is 1.414 km long with 14 turns, and BIC says it was the first karting venue in the world to host a world championship-level race at night. It is used for arrive-and-drive sessions, local championships, Mini Grands Prix, endurance races and team-building events. Kids' sessions use 7HP karts and are only for children aged 7 to 12 who are at least 125 cm tall. Drivers aged 13 and over join adult sessions, while the more powerful 13HP karts are for those aged 18 and over. Kids' and adult karts do not share the track. A double-seater kart lets a parent and child, or two friends, ride together. BIC provides the safety equipment and a short briefing. There is a cafeteria and gift shop on site. Group packages end with a podium photo and trophies, which makes the track a common choice for birthdays and company outings. Booking is now essential. BIC's karting page states that walk-ins are not permitted, the number of sessions is limited, and only pre-booked drivers and their guardians may enter. Spectators are not allowed, so plan your group accordingly. ## Highlights - Arrive-and-drive sessions on a 1.414 km, 14-turn outdoor track - Kids' 7HP karts for ages 7 to 12 - 13HP karts for drivers aged 18 and over - Double-seater kart for a parent and child - Mini Grand Prix and endurance formats for groups ## Good to know - Pre-booking at bahraingp.com is essential; no walk-ins and no spectators are allowed. - Children must be at least 7 years old and 125 cm tall for kids' karts. - Closed, flat shoes are mandatory for every driver. - Official track hours are 16:00 to 23:30 on Sundays and Mondays and 10:00 to 23:30 Tuesday to Saturday (BIC karting page, October 2026). - Evening sessions are the most comfortable outside winter. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Kids sessions: Ages 7 to 12 - Adult sessions: Ages 13 and over - Operator: Bahrain International Circuit - Best time: October to April, or evening sessions in the warmer months - Coordinates (approximate): 26.029, 50.518 - Website: https://www.bahraingp.com/karting/ ## FAQ **What is the minimum age for karting at Bahrain International Circuit?** Kids' sessions are for children aged 7 to 12 with a minimum height of 125 cm. Adult sessions start at 13, and the 13HP karts are for drivers aged 18 and over. **Can I just turn up and drive at BIC karting?** No. BIC requires pre-booking at bahraingp.com, does not accept walk-ins and does not allow spectators. **How long is the Bahrain karting track?** The Bahrain International Karting Circuit is 1.414 km long with 14 turns. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/karting-at-bic/ --- # Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre (مسرح بيون الدانة) Thrills & Events · Sakhir · South Bahrain Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is an open-air concert venue built about 50 feet into the Sakhir desert rock beside Bahrain International Circuit. Al Dana Amphitheatre opened in 2021 in Sakhir, right next to Bahrain International Circuit. It was cut into the desert, roughly 50 feet (about 15 m) below ground, and the bowl holds around 10,000 people. The venue is a portfolio company of Mumtalakat, Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund, and now carries the Beyon name under a naming rights deal. The site has grown into a cluster of spaces: the main amphitheatre, The Walkway, The Quarry, The Rooftop View, The Plaza, The Desert Garden and an indoor hall called Terminal 4 by Beyon. Shows range from Arab superstars and Jalsat evenings to international tours. Linkin Park played here in January 2026. The operators say much of the quarried rock was reused in the design, corporate boxes are converted shipping containers, and the rock walls help the sound carry cleanly from the stage. Premium boxes and balconies are sold for most big shows. Upcoming events listed in October 2026 include Bryson Tiller on 12 November 2026 and Trevor Noah on 5 December 2026, both at Terminal 4 by Beyon, and André Rieu in the amphitheatre on 19 March 2027. The calendar is busiest in the cooler months and around race weekends. ## Highlights - See a concert in a bowl carved into desert rock - Premium boxes and balconies for big shows - Indoor shows at Terminal 4 by Beyon - Smaller events in The Desert Garden and The Quarry - Formula 1 weekend concerts next to the circuit ## Good to know - Tickets are sold on the official website, at the box office on event days and through approved agents. - General parking next to Bahrain International Circuit serves all ticket types, with a shuttle bus or walking route to The Plaza. - Parking for Terminal 4 by Beyon is at Exhibition World Bahrain, car parks P1 to P4. - Taxi drop-off is near Gates 2 and 3; check each event page for age limits, which vary by show. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Opened: 2021 - Capacity: 10,000 - Location: Next to Bahrain International Circuit - Best time: October to April, when most concerts are scheduled - Coordinates (approximate): 26.04, 50.509 - Website: https://beyonaldana.com.bh ## FAQ **How many people does Al Dana Amphitheatre hold?** The main amphitheatre holds around 10,000 people. It was built about 50 feet into the rock of the Sakhir desert. **Where do you park for Al Dana Amphitheatre?** General parking is next to Bahrain International Circuit, with shuttle buses and a walking route to the venue. Terminal 4 by Beyon events use the Exhibition World Bahrain car parks. **Who owns Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre?** It is a portfolio company of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company. Beyon holds the naming rights. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/al-dana-amphitheatre/ --- # Exhibition World Bahrain (مركز البحرين العالمي للمعارض) Thrills & Events · Sakhir · South Bahrain Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir is the kingdom's largest exhibition and convention centre, with 10 halls and about 95,000 square metres of event space. Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) replaced the old exhibition centre in Sanabis as the country's main venue for trade fairs and large events. It was completed in November 2022 on a site close to Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir. German firm Tilke worked on the project, and its listed address is Block 1062, Road 6204, Sakhir. The centre has 10 halls with a combined 95,000 square metres of exhibition space, a Grand Hall used for conferences and shows, and a large number of meeting rooms. It is owned by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and managed by ASM Global. Most visitors come for a specific event. The calendar mixes business shows with public fairs, comedy and concerts. Listings for late 2026 include a Shawn Chidiac comedy show on 30 October, the UFI Global Congress on 2 to 5 November, and Jewellery Arabia with Scent Arabia on 24 to 28 November 2026. Many trade shows are free for visitors but require online registration in advance, while concerts and comedy nights are ticketed. The car parks here also serve shows at Terminal 4 by Beyon, part of the nearby Al Dana venue group. ## Highlights - Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia, 24 to 28 November 2026 - Large consumer and trade fairs across 10 halls - Comedy and concerts in the Grand Hall - Conferences such as the UFI Global Congress - Easy to combine with Bahrain International Circuit ## Good to know - Check each event's page for whether entry needs registration or a ticket. - Trade shows may restrict entry to business visitors or set age limits. - Large car parks surround the venue; expect queues on opening nights of big shows. - There is little else within walking distance, so plan transport there and back. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Exhibition space: 95,000 sq m - Operator: ASM Global - Owner: Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority - Best time: October to April, when most major shows are scheduled - Coordinates (approximate): 26.047, 50.523 - Website: https://www.ewbahrain.com ## FAQ **How big is Exhibition World Bahrain?** It has 10 halls with a total of about 95,000 square metres of exhibition space, making it Bahrain's largest exhibition venue. **Where is Exhibition World Bahrain?** It is in Sakhir, close to Bahrain International Circuit, at Block 1062, Road 6204. **What events are at Exhibition World Bahrain in November 2026?** The venue lists the UFI Global Congress on 2 to 5 November 2026 and Jewellery Arabia with Scent Arabia on 24 to 28 November 2026. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/exhibition-world-bahrain/ --- # Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach (شاطئ بلاج الجزائر) Beaches & Water · Bilaj Al Jazayer · South Bahrain Bilaj Al Jazayer is a 3 km public beach on Bahrain's south-west coast, temporarily closed since 13 April 2026 for a major upgrade. Bilaj Al Jazayer, often called Jazayer or Jazaer Beach, stretches about 3 km along the south-western coast, around 40 km from Manama. It has long been one of the country's most popular public beaches, with white sand, clear shallow water and a weekend crowd of families and friends. Before the closure the beach had lifeguard towers, showers and toilets, a prayer area, a first aid clinic, food stalls, a children's play area, a long bike path and rentable chalets, sun loungers, boats and jet skis. The beach is part of Edamah's Bilaj Al Jazayer masterplan of about 1.6 million square metres. Edamah closed the public beach on 13 April 2026 to start phase one, covering over 80,000 square metres with shaded walkways, cycling and jogging tracks, a playground, fitness zones, food and retail units, landscaping and more parking. The masterplan also includes the planned Bahrain Surf Park and Azure Beach Club. Edamah has said the reopening date will be announced through the project's official channels. Until then, nearby options include the resort beaches of Zallaq and Janat Dilmun water park. Bahrain's tourism authority has described the beach as one of the country's largest and most secluded public beaches, with shallow water suited to children. When it reopens, expect new paths and shade rather than the old layout. ## Highlights - About 3 km of white sand on the south-west coast - Clear, shallow water suited to families (after reopening) - Planned cycling and jogging tracks - New playground and fitness zones in phase one - Sunsets over the Gulf of Bahrain ## Good to know - The public beach has been closed since 13 April 2026; no reopening date had been announced by October 2026. - Follow Edamah and bilajbeach.com for reopening news. - Modest swimwear is expected on Bahrain's public beaches. - Shade is limited; bring water and sun protection when it reopens. ## Key facts - Area: Bilaj Al Jazayer - Region: South-west coast - Status: Temporarily closed since 13 Apr 2026 - Upgrade area: 80,000 sq m, phase one - Operator: Edamah - Best time: October to April once reopened; check status first - Coordinates (approximate): 25.975, 50.46 - Website: https://www.bilajbeach.com ## FAQ **Is Bilaj Al Jazayer beach open?** No. Edamah closed the public beach on 13 April 2026 for phase one of an upgrade, and no reopening date had been announced by October 2026. **What is being built at Bilaj Al Jazayer beach?** Phase one covers more than 80,000 square metres with shaded walkways, cycling and jogging tracks, a playground, fitness zones, food and retail units and more parking. **How long is Bilaj Al Jazayer beach?** The beach stretches about 3 km along Bahrain's south-western coast. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/bilaj-al-jazayer-beach/ --- # Zallaq coast (ساحل الزلاق) Beaches & Water · Zallaq · South Bahrain Zallaq is a west-coast village in the Southern Governorate known for calm, shallow water, Gulf sunsets and resort beaches. Zallaq is a village on the west coast of Bahrain, in the Southern Governorate, between Bahrain International Circuit and the sea. The old village keeps a fishing character, with many boats moored along its shore, while the coast to the north and south has been developed with resorts and private estates, including royal palaces. The main beach resort is the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa, with 262 rooms, a private beach and a thalassotherapy spa. Day passes and water sports on the Zallaq coast are mostly sold through resorts and beach operators rather than at open public beaches. The shallow, sheltered water suits paddling, kayaking and sailing, and the coast faces west, so sunsets over the Gulf of Bahrain are the big draw. Snorkelling is possible off some resort beaches. The large public beach at Bilaj Al Jazayer, a short drive south, has been closed for works since April 2026. Gravity Village, Janat Dilmun water park and Bahrain International Circuit are all close by. ## Highlights - Sunsets over the Gulf of Bahrain - Resort beach days at the Sofitel - Calm, shallow water for paddling and kayaking - Fishing boats in Zallaq village - Easy pairing with BIC and Gravity Village ## Good to know - Most beachfront here is private or resort-run; expect to buy a day pass. - The public beach at Bilaj Al Jazayer has been closed since 13 April 2026. - Dress modestly in the village and public areas. - Visit in the late afternoon for the sunset. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Governorate: Southern - Known for: West-coast sunsets, resorts - Best time: October to April, late afternoon for sunsets - Coordinates (approximate): 26.048, 50.48 ## FAQ **Is there a public beach in Zallaq?** Most of the Zallaq shoreline is resort-run or private. The nearby public beach at Bilaj Al Jazayer has been closed for works since 13 April 2026. **What hotels are on the Zallaq beach?** The main beach resort is the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa, which has a private beach and a thalassotherapy spa. **Why is Zallaq good for sunsets?** Zallaq faces west over the Gulf of Bahrain, so the sun sets over the sea. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/zallaq-beach/ --- # Janat Dilmun Water Park (جنة دلمون) Beaches & Water · Al Areen · South Bahrain Janat Dilmun, the rebranded Lost Paradise of Dilmun, is Bahrain's only water park, set near Al Areen with slides, a wave pool and family play areas. The park opened in 2007 as The Lost Paradise of Dilmun, an outdoor water park of about 77,000 square metres themed on the ancient Dilmun civilisation. Al Areen Leisure and Tourism Co. announced a redevelopment worth about US$30 million and a new name, Janat Dilmun. By June 2026 local media reported the transformed park was open and fully operating. Attractions listed on the official site include Enki's Fort, a multi-level play structure full of slides and splashes; Wadi Woop, a bowl ride that drops into a splash pool; and Pearl Beach, a wave pool. Beyond the rides, there are private cabanas, dining outlets, a souq and food court, and live entertainment. The park runs evening sessions and a women-only Ladies Night, plus themed days such as a Filipino Day Out on 30 October 2026. It suits families with children of all ages and groups of teenagers. Day tickets, season passes and cabanas are sold online. ## Highlights - Enki's Fort multi-level splash play structure - Wadi Woop bowl slide - Pearl Beach wave pool - Ladies Night for women only - Private cabanas for groups ## Good to know - Book day tickets, season passes and cabanas at janatdilmun.com. - Read the park's safety rules page for ride height limits before you go. - Ladies Night is women only; check the site for the current day. - Bring sun protection; much of the park is outdoors. ## Key facts - Area: Al Areen - Region: South-west coast - Former name: The Lost Paradise of Dilmun - First opened: 2007 - Status: Open, 2026 season reported - Now called: Janat Dilmun - Best time: April to October, the main water park season - Coordinates (approximate): 25.994, 50.485 - Website: https://www.janatdilmun.com ## FAQ **Is The Lost Paradise of Dilmun still open?** The park has been redeveloped and renamed Janat Dilmun. Local media reported it fully open in June 2026, and it was running events in October 2026. **What rides are at Janat Dilmun?** Featured attractions include Enki's Fort, the Wadi Woop bowl slide and the Pearl Beach wave pool. **Does Janat Dilmun have a ladies' night?** Yes. The park runs a Ladies Night, an evening session exclusively for women. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/lost-paradise-of-dilmun/ --- # Bahrain Surf Park, Club Hawaii Experience (منتزه البحرين لركوب الأمواج) Beaches & Water · Bilaj Al Jazayer · South Bahrain Bahrain Surf Park is the region's first Wavegarden Cove surf pool, under construction at Bilaj Al Jazayer, with opening announced for 2026 but no date set. Bahrain Surf Park, branded Club Hawaii Experience, is being built by Edamah with GFH Financial Group inside the Bilaj Al Jazayer project on the south-west coast. The park covers more than 52,000 square metres and broke ground in 2025. It uses Wavegarden Cove technology, which can generate up to 1,000 waves an hour for up to 90 surfers. Waves will range from 0.5 m for beginners to 1.8 m for experienced surfers. Plans on the official site include surf lessons for all levels, ladies-only and kids' sessions, a shallow play bay with gentle waves and a splash pad suitable for non-swimmers and children from six, a supervised Keiki Zone for ages 3 to 12, cabanas, a surf store and restaurants. Opening has been announced for 2026, but in October 2026 the website's booking buttons still led to a coming soon page and no opening date had been published. Pricing had not been published either. Bilaj Al Jazayer public beach, next to the site, has been closed for works since April 2026. Sign up on the official website for opening news before planning a trip. ## Highlights - Wavegarden Cove waves from 0.5 m to 1.8 m - Surf lessons for beginners - Ladies-only and kids' surf sessions - Play in the Bay for non-swimmers - Keiki Zone childcare for ages 3 to 12 ## Good to know - The park was not open as of October 2026; online booking showed coming soon. - Pricing had not been published. - Bilaj Al Jazayer public beach next door has been closed for works since April 2026. - Sign up on bahrainsurfpark.com for opening news. ## Key facts - Area: Bilaj Al Jazayer - Region: South-west coast - Technology: Wavegarden Cove - Capacity: Up to 90 surfers per hour - Status: Under construction, opening announced for 2026 - Website: bahrainsurfpark.com - Best time: Not yet open; opening announced for 2026 - Coordinates (approximate): 25.966, 50.466 - Website: https://www.bahrainsurfpark.com ## FAQ **Is Bahrain Surf Park open?** Not yet. Opening was announced for 2026, but in October 2026 online booking still showed coming soon and no date had been set. **Where is Bahrain Surf Park?** It is being built inside the Bilaj Al Jazayer development on Bahrain's south-west coast. **How big are the waves at Bahrain Surf Park?** The Wavegarden Cove pool is designed for waves from 0.5 m to 1.8 m. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/surf-park/ --- # Hawar Islands (جزر حوار) Beaches & Water · Hawar Islands · South Bahrain The Hawar Islands are a protected archipelago off Bahrain's south-west coast near Qatar, known for seabird colonies, dugongs and a single island resort. The Hawar Islands lie about 26 km south-west of the Bahrain mainland, close to the coast of Qatar. UNESCO describes six major islands and more than 30 smaller ones. In 2001 the International Court of Justice confirmed Bahrain's sovereignty over the main Hawar group. The islands were listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance on 27 October 1997. They host one of the world's largest concentrations of Socotra cormorants, along with greater flamingos and other waterbirds. Bahrain placed the Hawar Islands Reserve on its UNESCO World Heritage tentative list in 2001. The seagrass meadows around the islands feed a large dugong population. A 2022 study reported a herd of nearly 700 dugongs near the islands. Dolphins are also seen on boat trips. Most islands are off limits to protect wildlife. Visitors reach the main island through Hawar Resort by Mantis, which opened in early 2025 and runs a boat from Durrat Al Bahrain. The resort offers wildlife boat trips, kayaking, snorkelling and desert activities. ## Highlights - Seabird colonies, including Socotra cormorants - Dugong and dolphin boat safaris - Snorkelling and kayaking from the resort - Desert island landscapes - Stays at Hawar Resort by Mantis ## Good to know - Access to most islands is restricted; visitors normally travel via Hawar Resort. - The resort boat leaves from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion; arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure. - Fishing is prohibited near the resort shoreline. - Keep your distance from nesting birds and marine life. ## Key facts - Area: Hawar Islands - Region: Hawar Islands - Protection: Ramsar wetland site - Wildlife: Socotra cormorant, dugong, osprey - Access: Boat from Durrat Al Bahrain - Best time: October to April for comfortable weather and birdlife - Coordinates (approximate): 25.66, 50.77 - Website: https://www.hawarresort.com ## FAQ **How do you get to the Hawar Islands?** Visitors take the Hawar Resort boat from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, a crossing of about 30 minutes. **Are the Hawar Islands protected?** Yes. They have been a Ramsar wetland of international importance since 1997 and are on Bahrain's UNESCO World Heritage tentative list. **Can you see dugongs at the Hawar Islands?** The waters around Hawar support a large dugong population, and the resort runs boat safaris to look for dugongs and dolphins. **Who owns the Hawar Islands?** The Hawar Islands belong to Bahrain. The International Court of Justice confirmed Bahrain's sovereignty in 2001. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/hawar-islands/ --- # Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve (Al Areen Wildlife Park) (محمية محمد بن زايد الطبيعية (محمية العرين)) Desert & Nature · Al Areen · South Bahrain Bahrain's first nature reserve, open to visitors since 1976, protects the Arabian oryx and the Bahraini reem gazelle in the desert near Zallaq. Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve is the new name of Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve, Bahrain's best known wildlife site. It lies in the south west of the island near Zallaq, a short distance from Bahrain International Circuit. The reserve exists to protect, breed and study native and regional species, above all the Arabian oryx and the Bahraini reem gazelle, in a safe desert habitat. The reserve is split into two parts. One section is set aside for specialists and researchers and is closed to the public. The other is a visitor area where you can see mammals, birds and reptiles alongside native plants such as marakh trees and date palms. Visits have traditionally included a guided bus tour past the larger animals, so you see them in open enclosures rather than cages. The site opened in 1976 and has long been run under the authority that now forms Bahrain's Supreme Council for Environment. Captive breeding here has supported the release of animals elsewhere in the kingdom, including the Hawar Islands. In December 2025, to mark the UAE's 54th Union Day, King Hamad issued a royal order naming the reserve after UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The reserve suits families with children, school groups, birdwatchers and anyone who wants to see Arabian desert wildlife without a long trip. It pairs well with a morning at the Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan or the circuit. Expect some signs and maps to still show the old Al Areen name while the new name settles in. ## Highlights - Arabian oryx and Bahraini reem gazelle - Bahrain's first nature reserve, opened 1976 - Separate public area and research area - Native plants including marakh trees and date palms - Renamed by royal order in December 2025 - Close to Bahrain International Circuit and Gravity Village ## Good to know - Signs, maps and taxis may still use the old name, Al Areen Wildlife Park. - Part of the reserve is closed to the public and reserved for researchers. - Opening times listed on bahrain.com vary by day, with shorter hours on Fridays, so check before you go. - Morning visits in the cooler months are more comfortable and animals are usually more active. ## Key facts - Area: Al Areen - Region: South-west coast - Founded: 1976 - Renamed: December 2025 - Former name: Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve - Best time: November to March, mornings - Coordinates (approximate): 25.997, 50.488 ## FAQ **Is Al Areen Wildlife Park the same as Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve?** Yes. Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve was renamed Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve by royal order in December 2025. The site, animals and location are the same. **What animals can you see at the reserve?** The reserve is known for the Arabian oryx and the Bahraini reem gazelle, along with other mammals, birds and reptiles. Native plants such as marakh trees and date palms grow there too. **Where is the Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve?** It is in the south west of Bahrain near Zallaq, close to Bahrain International Circuit and Gravity Village. **When was Al Areen Wildlife Park founded?** The reserve opened in 1976 and is described as Bahrain's first natural reserve. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/al-areen-wildlife-park/ --- # 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/ --- # Jebel Dukhan (جبل الدخان) Desert & Nature · Sakhir · South Bahrain Jebel Dukhan, the Mountain of Smoke, is Bahrain's highest point at about 134 metres, a low limestone hill rising from the southern oil fields. Jebel Dukhan, Arabic for Mountain of Smoke, is a limestone hill in Bahrain's Southern Governorate and the highest natural point in the country at about 134 metres above sea level. It sits near the centre of the main island, in the oil field south of Awali. The name is linked to the haze that often hangs around the hill on humid days. For visitors the appeal is the setting more than the climb. From the surrounding roads you get wide views over the desert, the oil field with its nodding pumps, and on clear days much of the island. The hill is a regular stop on half-day desert tours that also take in the Tree of Life, about 2 kilometres away, and the first oil well. The area matters both geologically and historically. Stone Age flint tools have been found on and around the hill, and several caves lie nearby. In the 1930s geologists recognised the dome shaped structure here as a likely oil trap, and in 1932 Bahrain's first commercial oil flowed from a well drilled at its foot. Jebel Dukhan suits drivers exploring the south, photographers and anyone curious about Bahrain's landscape or oil history. Access to parts of the oil field is controlled, so stay on public roads and respect any signs. Pair it with the Oil Museum area, the Tree of Life and Awali for a short loop. ## Highlights - Bahrain's highest point, about 134 m - Name means Mountain of Smoke - Views over the southern oil field - Stone Age flints found nearby - Next to Oil Well No. 1 - About 2 km from the Tree of Life ## Good to know - This is an active oil field area: stay on public roads and follow signs. - The hill is low and the slopes are rocky, so wear proper shoes if you walk. - Haze often limits views on humid days; winter mornings tend to be clearer. - Combine it with the Tree of Life and the first oil well on one drive. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Height: About 134 m - Nearby: Oil Well No. 1, Tree of Life - Best time: November to March, clear mornings - Coordinates (approximate): 26.033, 50.55 ## FAQ **What is the highest point in Bahrain?** Jebel Dukhan is Bahrain's highest point at about 134 metres above sea level. **What does Jebel Dukhan mean?** It means Mountain of Smoke in Arabic, a name linked to the haze that often surrounds the hill on humid days. **Can you visit Jebel Dukhan?** Yes, you can drive to the area on public roads and see it on many desert tours. Parts of the surrounding oil field are restricted, so follow local signs. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/jebel-dukhan/ --- # Sakhir camping season (موسم التخييم في الصخير) Desert & Nature · Sakhir · South Bahrain Every winter Bahraini families pitch tents in the Sakhir desert under a season, map and rules set each year by the Southern Governorate. Winter camping in the Sakhir desert is one of Bahrain's oldest seasonal habits. When the heat breaks, families and groups of friends set up tents, majlis seating and barbecues on approved plots in the south of the island and return to them on evenings and weekends through the cooler months. The Southern Governorate runs the season. Each year it announces the dates, publishes an approved camping map and sets rules on safety, waste and site spacing. Plots are allocated through the Khayyam service in the governorate's Aljunobya app, with a short registration window before the season opens. Thousands of plots are usually allocated, and the governorate coordinates with police, civil defence and municipal teams. Dates change from year to year. The 2024 to 2025 season ran from 20 November to 20 February, and the 2025 to 2026 season was set for 5 December 2025 to 25 March 2026. On 2 March 2026 the governorate suspended that season until further notice for public safety reasons linked to the regional situation, and campers were told to remove tents. As of late October 2026 no dates for the 2026 to 2027 season had been published. Watch the Southern Governorate's official channels and the Aljunobya app for the announcement. If you do not want to camp yourself, tour operators run evening desert trips, and the season's atmosphere can be seen on drives around Sakhir. ## Highlights - Long-standing Bahraini winter tradition - Approved camping map set each season - Plots booked through Khayyam in the Aljunobya app - Organised by the Southern Governorate - Dates and rules change every year ## Good to know - You must register through the Khayyam service in the Aljunobya app; pitching outside approved areas is not allowed. - The 2025 to 2026 season was suspended on 2 March 2026; check that a new season has been announced before planning. - Follow the governorate's rules on fires, waste and generators, and clear your site fully at the end. - Registration windows are short, often about ten days before the season starts. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - 2025 to 2026 season: 5 Dec 2025 to 25 Mar 2026 - Registration: Khayyam service, Aljunobya app - Organiser: Southern Governorate - 2025-26 season: Suspended 2 Mar 2026 - 2026-27 dates: Not yet announced - Best time: December to March, when a season is announced - Coordinates (approximate): 25.96, 50.54 ## FAQ **When is camping season in Bahrain?** The Southern Governorate sets the dates each year, usually covering part of November to March. The 2025 to 2026 season was set for 5 December 2025 to 25 March 2026 but was suspended on 2 March 2026. **How do I register for a camping site in Sakhir?** Registration is through the Khayyam service in the Southern Governorate's Aljunobya app during the announced registration window. **Have the 2026 to 2027 camping dates been announced?** As of late October 2026, no dates had been published. Check the Southern Governorate's official channels and the Aljunobya app. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/sakhir-desert-camping/ --- # Oil Well No. 1 (البئر رقم 1) Heritage · Jebel Dukhan · South Bahrain At the foot of Jebel Dukhan, the well where Bahrain struck oil on 2 June 1932 changed the island and the Gulf. Oil Well No. 1 sits below Jebel Dukhan in the southern oil field. Drilling began in October 1931 for the Bahrain Petroleum Company, Bapco, which had been formed in 1929 by Standard Oil Company of California. On 2 June 1932 the well came in, producing about 400 barrels an hour according to Bapco. It was the first oil discovery on the Arab side of the Gulf. Today the well head has been rebuilt to look as it did in the 1930s and stands as a monument beside Dar Al Naft, the Oil Museum, and Bapco's early office building. Visitors come to see the restored rig, read the story of the discovery and take photos of a site that shaped the region's modern history. The timing mattered. The find came as the world pearl market collapsed, hitting Bahrain's main industry. Oil brought Bapco's refinery, opened in 1937, the company town of Awali and new jobs. The first crude cargo left for Japan in 1934. The Bahraini government took a majority stake in Bapco in 1980 and full ownership in 1997. The site suits history lovers, families and anyone on a southern desert loop with Jebel Dukhan and the Tree of Life. It sits in an operating oil field, so keep to marked access and respect any restrictions. Allow time to read the panels and walk around the restored rig. ## Highlights - Oil first flowed on 2 June 1932 - First oil discovery on the Arab side of the Gulf - Well head restored to its 1930s look - Beside Dar Al Naft Oil Museum - Below Jebel Dukhan, Bahrain's highest point ## Good to know - The well is in an active oil field; stay within public access areas. - The neighbouring Oil Museum has limited and irregular opening, so do not plan a trip around it without checking. - Many half-day desert tours stop here with Jebel Dukhan and the Tree of Life. - There is little shade, so winter mornings are most comfortable. ## Key facts - Area: Jebel Dukhan - Region: Central south - Oil struck: 1932 - Operator: Bapco - Next to: Bahrain Oil Museum - Best time: November to March - Coordinates (approximate): 26.062, 50.553 ## FAQ **When was oil discovered in Bahrain?** Oil flowed from Well No. 1 at Jebel Dukhan on 2 June 1932, after drilling began in October 1931. **Was Bahrain the first Gulf country to find oil?** Bahrain's 1932 discovery was the first on the Arab side of the Gulf, several years before finds in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. **Can you visit Bahrain's first oil well?** Yes. The restored well head stands beside the Oil Museum below Jebel Dukhan and is a common stop on desert tours. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/oil-well-no-1/ --- # Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort (Riffa Fort) (قلعة الشيخ سلمان بن أحمد الفاتح) Heritage · Riffa · South Bahrain Built in 1812 above the Hunainiya valley, Riffa Fort tells the story of the Al Khalifa family and is currently closed for renovation. The Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort, known as Riffa Fort, stands on a ridge in Riffa looking over Wadi Al Hunainiya. Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh, then Ruler of Bahrain, built it in 1812 on the remains of an older fort. It served as both a defensive post and a family residence, and it is one of the main landmarks linked to the history of the ruling family. Inside are rooms, a prayer area, a kitchen and storage spaces around courtyards. A modern exhibition, set in a glass pavilion in the eastern courtyard, uses audio-visual displays to trace the Al Khalifa family's history. Displays have included swords, some more than 140 years old, jewellery, daggers, hunting tools and falconry equipment. The Saffron cafe looks over the valley. The valley below was known for the sweetness of its well water, once carried to nearby homes by a water seller called a saqqay. After falling into disrepair in the twentieth century, the fort was restored and opened to visitors, and a further redevelopment added the exhibition and visitor facilities. The Ministry of Culture currently lists the fort as closed for renovations, with no reopening date published. It remains a striking sight from the outside and is worth watching for when it reopens, especially for history lovers and photographers. Check culture.gov.bh for updates. ## Highlights - Built in 1812 by Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh - Views over Wadi Al Hunainiya - Exhibition on Al Khalifa family history - Swords, daggers and falconry displays - Saffron cafe with valley views - Currently closed for renovation ## Good to know - The fort is closed for renovations; culture.gov.bh lists no opening hours. - No reopening date has been announced, so check before travelling. - The exterior and valley setting can still be seen from the surrounding area. - When open, it is run by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Built: 1812 - Status: Closed for renovations - Run by: Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities - Best time: When it reopens; cooler months for exterior views - Coordinates (approximate): 26.116, 50.5673 - Website: https://culture.gov.bh/en/visitingbahrain/CulturalTourism/Destinations/Name,10328,en.php ## FAQ **Is Riffa Fort open?** No. The Ministry of Culture lists Riffa Fort as closed for renovations and has not published a reopening date. **When was Riffa Fort built?** Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh built it in 1812 on the remains of an older fort. **What is inside Riffa Fort?** Restored rooms, a prayer area, kitchen and storage spaces, plus an exhibition on the Al Khalifa family with swords, jewellery, daggers and falconry items, and a cafe overlooking the valley. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/riffa-fort/ --- # Awali (عوالي) Heritage · Awali · South Bahrain Begun in 1934 near the first oil well, Awali was the earliest modern oil town in the Gulf and is still a working community. Awali is the town the Bahrain Petroleum Company built for its staff after oil was found at Jebel Dukhan in 1932. Temporary housing went up near the well in 1933 and construction of the town began in 1934. Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, then Ruler of Bahrain, gave it its name. It is often described as the earliest modern oil company settlement in the Arabian Gulf. The town was planned with homes, offices, services and leisure in one place. Housing ranged from bunkhouses to family bungalows, with a hospital opened in 1937, a school, a church, a swimming pool and the Bapco Club, a social hub of the early oil era. Awali was the first place in Bahrain with central air conditioning plants, and its green streets still feel different from the rest of the island. Historians also note the divisions of the time, with many Bahraini workers housed outside the camp in simpler homes. In 2026 the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and Bapco Energies opened an exhibition at Bahrain National Museum marking 90 years of Awali, and the town has been proposed for UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list. Awali remains a quiet residential community, home to Awali Golf Club, the oldest golf club in the Gulf. It suits visitors interested in architecture, oil history and town planning, and works well with a drive to Jebel Dukhan, the first oil well and Riffa Views. ## Highlights - Construction began in 1934 - Gulf's earliest modern oil company town - First central air conditioning in Bahrain - Bapco Club and 1930s bungalows - Home of Awali Golf Club - 90-year exhibition at Bahrain National Museum ## Good to know - Awali is a residential community; respect private homes and company property. - The best way to learn its history is the Awali exhibition at Bahrain National Museum, which is closed on Tuesdays. - Combine a drive through Awali with Jebel Dukhan and the first oil well. - Some facilities, such as clubs, may be for members or residents only. ## Key facts - Area: Awali - Region: Central south - Founded by: Bapco - Era: 1930s - Best time: November to March - Coordinates (approximate): 26.09, 50.548 ## FAQ **When was Awali built?** Bapco began building Awali in 1934, after temporary housing for oil workers was set up near the first oil well in 1933. **Who named Awali?** Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Ruler of Bahrain at the time, named the township Awali. **Can you visit Awali?** Yes, you can drive through the town, which is still a residential community. Respect private property and members-only facilities. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/awali/ --- # Royal Golf Club (النادي الملكي للغولف) Golf & Riding · Riffa Views · South Bahrain Bahrain's grass championship course, designed by Colin Montgomerie, with floodlit holes for evening golf and a DP World Tour event every winter. The Royal Golf Club sits within the Riffa Views community in Riffa. Its main layout, the Montgomerie Course, is an 18-hole, par 72 championship course of more than 7,000 yards, redesigned by Colin Montgomerie over the footprint of the earlier Riffa Golf Club. It plays as a links style course in the desert, with fast fairways, open approaches and large, firm, contoured greens. Alongside it is the Wee Monty, a nine-hole par 3 course suited to beginners, juniors and quick rounds. The back nine of the Montgomerie Course and the whole Wee Monty are floodlit, so golf continues after dark. The club has a golf academy, a golf shop, restaurants and a cafe, and the adjoining Royal Country Club adds a pool, fitness studio and courts. The club hosted the first Volvo Golf Champions in 2011, won by Paul Casey. Since 2024 it has been home to the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship on the DP World Tour. The 2027 edition runs from 28 to 31 January, and the venue is confirmed for the 2027 and 2028 editions. Visitors as well as members can play, which makes it the obvious choice for golfers on a short trip. It also suits beginners through the Wee Monty and academy, and families using the country club. Book tee times in advance during the busy winter season. ## Highlights - 18-hole, par 72 Montgomerie Course - Floodlit back nine for evening golf - Wee Monty nine-hole par 3 course - Golf academy and practice facilities - Host of the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship - Royal Country Club next door ## Good to know - Visitors can play as well as members; book tee times ahead, especially November to March. - Evening golf under floodlights is a good option on warmer days. - The course may close to the public around the Bahrain Championship in late January. - Check the dress code and booking rules on theroyalgolfclub.com. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa Views - Region: Central south - Course: 18 holes, par 72 - Designer: Colin Montgomerie - Also: 9-hole floodlit academy course - Best time: October to April; evenings under lights - Coordinates (approximate): 26.104, 50.53 - Website: https://www.theroyalgolfclub.com ## FAQ **Who designed the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain?** Colin Montgomerie designed the 18-hole Montgomerie Course, which replaced the earlier Riffa Golf Club layout. **Can non-members play at the Royal Golf Club?** Yes. The club welcomes visitors as well as members. Book tee times through the club. **Is the Royal Golf Club floodlit?** Yes. The back nine of the Montgomerie Course and the whole nine-hole Wee Monty course are floodlit for evening play. **What tournament is played at the Royal Golf Club?** The Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship on the DP World Tour. The 2027 edition is on 28 to 31 January. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/royal-golf-club/ --- # Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (نادي راشد للفروسية وسباق الخيل) Golf & Riding · Sakhir · South Bahrain Bahrain's national racecourse between Riffa and Sakhir opens its 50th-anniversary season on 30 October 2026 with evening racing on turf. The Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club, REHC, was set up by decree in 1977 as Bahrain's sole racing authority. In 1981 it moved to a purpose-built site between Riffa and Sakhir. Racing is run under the Bahrain Turf Club brand, with turf racing tracks, a 2,000 metre sand training track, stables, quarantine barns, an equine swimming pool and a veterinary clinic. For spectators, race days are evening meetings with grandstands that overlook the track and parade ring. The Turf Village hospitality area adds food and family entertainment. Major fixtures include the Bahrain International Trophy, the Crown Prince's Cup Festival, the King's Cup Festival, the Bahrain Turf Series for international runners and the Future Stars Series for Bahrain-bred horses. The 2026 to 2027 season is the club's 50th, with 30 meetings from 30 October 2026 to 16 April 2027. On 13 November the Bahrain International Trophy runs as a Group 1 race for the first time, worth 1.5 million US dollars, alongside the new Bahrain Long Distance Cup. The Crown Prince's Cup Festival is on 28 and 29 January and the King's Cup Festival on 4 and 5 March 2027. Racing nights suit families, groups of friends and anyone curious about Arabian and thoroughbred racing, while trainers and owners use the site year round. Owners and trainers can find conditions and entry forms on the same site. Check bahrainturfclub.com for racecards, results and entry details before you go. ## Highlights - Bahrain's only racing authority, founded 1977 - 50th season: 30 Oct 2026 to 16 Apr 2027 - Bahrain International Trophy, Group 1, 13 Nov 2026 - Turf racing under lights - Turf Village for families and food - Crown Prince's Cup and King's Cup festivals ## Good to know - Racecards, results and live streams are on bahrainturfclub.com. - Meetings are mostly on Friday evenings; the first race on opening night is set for 5.30pm. - Major festival days draw big crowds, so arrive early. - The office line listed by Bahrain Tourism is open weekdays only, not on race evenings. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - At current site since: 1981 - Season: Autumn to spring - Meetings: About 30 per season - Founded: 1977 - 2026-27 season: 30 Oct 2026 to 16 Apr 2027 - Best time: Race season, 30 October 2026 to 16 April 2027 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.08, 50.53 - Website: https://bahrainturfclub.com ## FAQ **When is the horse racing season in Bahrain?** The 2026 to 2027 season runs from 30 October 2026 to 16 April 2027, with 30 meetings at the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club. **When is the Bahrain International Trophy 2026?** It runs on 13 November 2026 as a Group 1 race for the first time, with a purse of 1.5 million US dollars. **Where is Bahrain's racecourse?** The Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club is between Riffa and Sakhir. It has been at this site since 1981. **Can the public attend horse racing in Bahrain?** Yes. Spectators can watch from the grandstands, and the Turf Village offers food and family activities. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/rashid-equestrian-club/ --- # Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain (رافلز قصر العرين البحرين) Stay · Al Areen · South Bahrain Bahrain's only all-villa resort, where each of the 78 villas has its own private pool and a Raffles butler, set in the quiet Al Areen desert. Raffles Al Areen Palace opened in December 2023 as the first Raffles hotel in Bahrain and the kingdom's only resort made up entirely of villas. It stands on the site of the former Al Areen desert spa resort, inside the wider Al Areen masterplan owned by GFH, and was rebuilt and restyled under the Raffles brand, which is part of Accor. There are 78 villas in one, two and three-bedroom layouts. Each has a walled courtyard and a private pool, and guests are looked after by Raffles butlers, who also handle in-villa dining. The largest is the Royal three-bedroom villa, aimed at families and small groups who want space and privacy rather than a busy hotel lobby. Dining centres on Palma, an all-day Mediterranean restaurant with a terrace, and Ycone Paris, a patisserie by pastry chef Yazid Ichemrahen that also serves afternoon tea. The Raffles Pool offers light bites and drinks. The spa combines Eastern and Western treatments and includes a rainforest shower and ice igloo circuit. The location is a large part of the appeal. The resort sits beside the Al Areen Wildlife Park and close to the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park, Bahrain International Circuit and the beaches of the south-west coast, so it works well for a quiet weekend, a race weekend or a family break without crossing the island. ## Highlights - 78 villas, each with a private pool and courtyard - One, two and three-bedroom villas, including a Royal villa - Raffles butler service and in-villa dining - Palma Mediterranean restaurant and Ycone Paris patisserie - Spa with rainforest and ice igloo circuit - Next to Al Areen Wildlife Park ## Good to know - Book directly through raffles.com/bahrain or Accor to see villa types and current offers. - It is a resort for slow stays: there is no beach on site, but the south-west coast beaches are a short drive away. - Ycone Paris afternoon tea and Palma are generally open to outside guests; check with the hotel before you go. - Combine a stay with the wildlife park or a Formula 1 weekend at nearby Bahrain International Circuit. ## Key facts - Area: Al Areen - Region: South-west coast - Villas: 78, each with private pool - Brand: Raffles (Accor) - Website: raffles.com/bahrain - Opened: December 2023 - Best time: October to April, when evenings are cool enough to enjoy the villa terraces and courtyards. - Coordinates (approximate): 25.996, 50.474 - Website: https://www.raffles.com/bahrain/ ## FAQ **How many villas does Raffles Al Areen Palace have?** The resort has 78 villas in one, two and three-bedroom layouts, and every villa has its own private pool. **Who operates Raffles Al Areen Palace?** It is run by Raffles Hotels and Resorts, part of Accor. The site belongs to the Al Areen masterplan of GFH Financial Group. **What restaurants are at Raffles Al Areen Palace?** The main venues are Palma, an all-day Mediterranean restaurant, Ycone Paris patisserie by Yazid Ichemrahen, and the Raffles Pool for light bites. Guests can also dine in their villa. **Is Raffles Al Areen Palace on the beach?** No. It is a desert resort in Al Areen, next to the wildlife park, with the west coast beaches a short drive away. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/raffles-al-areen-palace/ --- # Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa (جميرا خليج البحرين منتجع وسبا) Stay · Zallaq · South Bahrain A full-service Jumeirah beach resort on Jazaer Beach in Zallaq, built for families with kids and teens clubs, a cinema and a Talise spa. Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa opened in late 2022 on Jazaer Beach in Zallaq, on the quieter west coast of the island. It was Jumeirah's second property in Bahrain and was designed as a self-contained beach resort, with greenery, waterways and views across the Gulf rather than city towers. The resort has 196 rooms and suites, many facing the sea. Its official address is Building 278, Avenue 63, Jazaer Beach, Zallaq, which places it close to the public Jazaer beach, the Bilaj Al Jazayer development and Bahrain International Circuit. Families are well catered for. There is a kids club with its own pool, a teens club with games, an in-house cinema, an infinity pool and tennis and squash courts. The Talise spa offers treatments, a hammam and heat facilities. Dining includes Obab Al Bahar by the pool and Due Mari for Italian food, along with lounges overlooking the water. For residents of Bahrain it is one of the main staycation choices in the south, and many visitors come for day use, brunch or the spa. Its neighbour along this stretch of coast is the Sofitel at Zallaq, and the Avani and Tivoli resorts are being built nearby at Bilaj Al Jazayer. ## Highlights - 196 rooms and suites, many with sea views - Private beach on Jazaer Beach - Talise spa with hammam - Kids club with its own pool, plus a teens club - In-house cinema and infinity pool - Tennis and squash courts ## Good to know - The resort is in Zallaq, well outside Manama, so plan on a car or taxi for any trips off site. - Restaurant line-ups change; check the current dining list on jumeirah.com before booking a table. - Day passes and brunches are popular at weekends and on public holidays, so book ahead. - Bahrain International Circuit is close by, so rooms fill up on Formula 1 weekends. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Opened: Late 2022 - Rooms: 196 rooms and suites - Spa: Talise Spa - Best time: October to April for the beach and outdoor pools; summer suits spa and indoor stays. - Coordinates (approximate): 25.983, 50.459 - Website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/bahrain/jumeirah-gulf-of-bahrain ## FAQ **Where is Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain?** It is on Jazaer Beach in Zallaq, on Bahrain's west coast, at Building 278, Avenue 63. **When did Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain open?** The resort opened in late 2022 with 196 rooms and suites. **Is Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain good for families?** Yes. It has a kids club with its own pool, a teens club, a cinema and a private beach. **What spa is at Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain?** The resort has a Talise spa, Jumeirah's wellness brand, with treatment rooms and a hammam. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/jumeirah-gulf-of-bahrain/ --- # Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa (سوفيتيل البحرين الزلاق ثالاسا للبحر والسبا) Stay · Zallaq · South Bahrain A long-standing beachfront resort on the Zallaq shore, known for the region's only Thalassa sea spa and a wide private beach. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa is one of the established resorts on Bahrain's west coast. It sits on the Zallaq shore, a short drive from Bahrain International Circuit, and is run by Sofitel, part of Accor. It is popular with residents for weekend breaks as well as with visitors who want a beach base away from Manama. The resort has around 260 rooms and suites, many with sea views, plus a small number of villas with private pools. Room categories range from pool-view rooms to Club rooms with lounge access. Club rooms come with access to a private lounge, and the villas give families or groups more space and privacy. Its signature is the Thalassa sea and spa, which uses seawater therapies. Facilities include seawater and freshwater infinity pools, a hammam, steam and sauna rooms and a relaxation lounge. Outside, guests have a private beach with cabanas and loungers, outdoor pools, tennis and squash courts and a kids club. There are several restaurants and bars, including Yamaz for Greek and Mediterranean food, Fiamma for Italian and Maison Sushi, alongside an all-day restaurant and lounges. Many of them are open to outside guests, which makes the hotel a common choice for dinners and brunch in the south. ## Highlights - Thalassa sea spa with seawater therapies - Seawater and freshwater infinity pools - Private beach with cabanas - Sea-view rooms and private-pool villas - Several restaurants including Yamaz and Fiamma - Kids club, tennis and squash courts ## Good to know - Book on sofitel.com or all.accor.com to see current room and villa categories. - Spa treatments and day access are separate from room bookings; reserve in advance at weekends. - Room counts and restaurant line-ups vary between listings, so confirm details with the hotel. - It is close to Bahrain International Circuit, so expect high demand on race weekends. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Spa: Thalassa sea and spa - Brand: Sofitel (Accor) - Best time: October to April for the beach; the indoor spa makes it a good choice in summer too. - Coordinates (approximate): 26.0453, 50.4797 ## FAQ **What is Thalassa at Sofitel Bahrain?** Thalassa is Sofitel's sea and spa concept, built around seawater therapies. At Zallaq it includes seawater and freshwater infinity pools, a hammam and heat rooms. **Does Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq have a private beach?** Yes. The resort has a private beach with cabanas and loungers for guests. **Is Sofitel Zallaq near Bahrain International Circuit?** Yes. It is a short drive from the circuit in Sakhir, which makes it popular on Formula 1 weekends. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/sofitel-zallaq/ --- # Tilal Al Areen (تلال العرين) Live in the South · Al Areen · South Bahrain A gated, green community of villas and townhouses in Al Areen, five minutes from the surf park and Bahrain's best natural beach, freehold for all nationalities. Tilal Al Areen is a private, gated community of villas and townhouses in Al Areen, in the south-west of Bahrain. It is designed around greenery and quiet streets, so day-to-day life feels removed from the traffic of the north, while the surf park and the best natural beach in Bahrain are about five minutes away. The community sits within the wider Areen masterplan, which brings together homes, the Raffles Al Areen Palace resort, the Al Areen Wildlife Park and the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park. It is planned to grow to around 25,000 residents, which means schools, shops and services are expected to follow the population rather than the other way round. The developer is the same company behind the Marina Bay villas on Reef Island in Manama. The idea is often summed up as Riffa Views 3.0: a newer, greener take on the gated family community that made Riffa Views one of the most sought-after addresses in the south. Homes are freehold for all nationalities. The payment plan is 10% down, then the balance over six years interest-free. A ten-year plan is also available at a slightly higher price, which suits buyers who prefer smaller monthly payments. Prices and availability are shared privately on request. ## Highlights - Gated, green and private community - Villas and townhouses - Five minutes from the surf park and the natural beach - Freehold for all nationalities - 10% down, then 6 years interest-free - Planned for around 25,000 residents ## Good to know - A ten-year payment plan is available at a slightly higher price than the six-year plan. - Bahrain International Circuit, the Al Areen Wildlife Park and the Raffles resort are all nearby. - Ask for a private viewing to see the community, plot positions and finishes in person. - Freehold ownership applies to all nationalities, so expatriate buyers can own outright. ## Key facts - Area: Al Areen - Region: South-west coast - Homes: Villas and townhouses - Ownership: Freehold - Payment: 10% down, 6 years interest-free - Planned: 25,000 residents - Coordinates (approximate): 25.999, 50.492 ## FAQ **Can foreigners buy at Tilal Al Areen?** Yes. Homes at Tilal Al Areen are freehold for all nationalities. **What is the Tilal Al Areen payment plan?** The plan is 10% down, then the balance over six years interest-free. A ten-year plan is available at a slightly higher price. **Where is Tilal Al Areen?** It is in Al Areen in the south-west of Bahrain, about five minutes from the surf park and Bahrain's best natural beach. **What types of homes are at Tilal Al Areen?** The community offers villas and townhouses in a gated, green setting. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/tilal-al-areen/ --- # Tivoli Residences (مساكن تيفولي) Live in the South · Al Jazayer · South Bahrain A boutique collection of apartments, duplexes and one penthouse by Edamah, on Bahrain's natural beach at Bilaj Al Jazayer, next to the surf park. Tivoli Residences is a boutique residential project at Bilaj Al Jazayer on Bahrain's south-west coast. It sits on the natural beach, next to the surf park, in one of the few places on the island where the shoreline has not been reclaimed or walled off. The collection is made up of apartments, duplexes and a single penthouse. Its scale is deliberately small, which suits buyers who want a quiet beach home or a second home rather than a large tower. Handover is scheduled for February 2027. The developer is Edamah, the real estate arm of Mumtalakat, Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund, and the master developer of Bilaj Al Jazayer. The wider waterfront plan includes the Avani and Tivoli resorts by Minor Hotels, an upgraded public beach and the Bahrain Surf Park, with Bahrain International Circuit a short drive inland. Homes are freehold. A private payment plan is available: 10% down, 80% spread over seven years and 10% on completion. A unit can be reserved with BHD 500 while the paperwork is prepared. Buyers can ask for floor plans and prices before arranging a private viewing. ## Highlights - Apartments, duplexes and one penthouse - On Bahrain's natural beach - Next to the Bahrain Surf Park - Developed by Edamah - Freehold ownership - Handover February 2027 ## Good to know - The private payment plan is 10% down, 80% over seven years and 10% on completion. - A BHD 500 reservation holds a unit while the sale is processed. - Only one penthouse is planned, so availability is limited. - Ask for floor plans to compare apartment and duplex layouts before a viewing. ## Key facts - Area: Al Jazayer - Region: South-west coast - Homes: 1, 2, 3-bed, duplexes, penthouse - Developer: Edamah - Handover: February 2027 - Payment: 10% / 80% over 7 yrs / 10% - Coordinates (approximate): 25.9928, 50.4848 ## FAQ **When is the Tivoli Residences handover?** Handover is scheduled for February 2027. **Who is the developer of Tivoli Residences?** Tivoli Residences is developed by Edamah, the real estate arm of Mumtalakat and master developer of Bilaj Al Jazayer. **What is the Tivoli Residences payment plan?** There is a private plan of 10% down, 80% over seven years and 10% on completion. Units can be reserved with BHD 500. **Is Tivoli Residences freehold?** Yes. Homes at Tivoli Residences are sold freehold. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/tivoli-residences/ --- # Durrat Al Bahrain (درة البحرين) Live in the South · Durrat Al Bahrain · South Bahrain A chain of reclaimed atolls, petal islands and a crescent at Bahrain's far southern tip, with villas, beaches, a marina and the boat link to Hawar. Durrat Al Bahrain is a large reclaimed island development at the south-eastern tip of Bahrain. The plan is built around a crescent-shaped central island, ring-shaped atolls with sheltered lagoons and fish-shaped petal islands, giving many homes a private stretch of water or beach. The project is owned by Durrat Khaleej Al Bahrain Company, a joint venture between the Government of Bahrain and Kuwait Finance House. Homes include villas on the atolls and petals and apartments, and the community has beaches, a marina and water sports. Its location sets it apart from the rest of the south. It is the furthest residential community from Manama, which brings quiet, open water views and little traffic, but also longer drives for school runs and commuting. Many owners use it as a weekend or holiday home. Since January 2025 Durrat has also been the gateway to Hawar Resort by Mantis. Guests check in at the Durrat Al Bahrain Welcome Pavilion and take a boat across to the Hawar Islands. The pavilion sits at the edge of the community, so resort guests do not need to drive through the residential islands. ## Highlights - Atolls, petal islands and a central crescent - Villas with lagoon and beach frontage - Apartments and holiday homes - Marina and water sports - Boat link to Hawar Resort - Quiet location at Bahrain's southern tip ## Good to know - Durrat is a gated community; visitors without a booking or invitation may not get past the entrance. - It is a long drive from Manama, so test the commute before buying or renting. - Hawar Resort guests use the Welcome Pavilion and should follow the resort's boat schedule. - Resale villas come up often; check the condition and service charges of each unit. ## Key facts - Area: Durrat Al Bahrain - Region: South-east coast - Type: Reclaimed island community - Boat link: Durrat Pavilion to Hawar - Coordinates (approximate): 25.815, 50.6 - Website: https://www.durratbahrain.com ## FAQ **Where is Durrat Al Bahrain?** It is at the far south-eastern tip of the main island of Bahrain, in the Southern Governorate. **Who owns Durrat Al Bahrain?** It is owned by Durrat Khaleej Al Bahrain Company, a joint venture between the Government of Bahrain and Kuwait Finance House. **Is Durrat Al Bahrain the departure point for Hawar Resort?** Yes. Hawar Resort guests check in at the Durrat Al Bahrain Welcome Pavilion and travel to the island by boat. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/durrat-al-bahrain/ --- # Riffa Views (رفاع فيوز) Live in the South · Riffa · South Bahrain Bahrain's first master-planned golf community, a gated estate of villas set around the Royal Golf Club, with an international school inside the gates. Riffa Views is a gated residential community next to Awali and the Riffa area, built around the Royal Golf Club and its 18-hole championship course designed by Colin Montgomerie. It was Bahrain's first master-planned golf community and remains one of the best-known family addresses in the south. According to the developer, there are 1,054 villas across three Signature Estates: Lagoons with 514 villas, Park with 339 and Oasis with 201. Each estate has its own architectural style, from Arabian-inspired Oasis to the waterside Lagoons and the Mediterranean-style Park. Green space is central to the design. The developer lists 39 parks and around 900,000 square metres of communal gardens, linked by walkways and lakes. Residents also have the Royal Country Club for fitness, and Riffa Views International School sits within the community. The community is developed by Riffa Views B.S.C. (c), licensed by Bahrain's Real Estate Regulatory Authority. Villas trade regularly on the resale and rental markets, and its success has shaped how newer gated communities in the south, such as Tilal Al Areen, are planned. ## Highlights - About 1,054 villas in three estates - Royal Golf Club with an 18-hole championship course - 39 parks with walkways and lakes - Royal Country Club fitness facilities - Riffa Views International School inside the gates - Gated, with controlled access ## Good to know - Each estate has its own style and price level, so view Lagoons, Park and Oasis before choosing. - Golf club membership is separate from home ownership. - The school inside the community is popular with residents; contact it directly about places. - Awali and the Riffa shops and services are a short drive away. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Size: About 270 hectares - Villas: 1,054 (developer figure) - Amenities: Royal Golf Club, school - Coordinates (approximate): 26.103, 50.533 - Website: https://www.riffaviews.com ## FAQ **How many villas are in Riffa Views?** The developer lists 1,054 villas: 514 in Lagoons, 339 in Park and 201 in Oasis. **Who designed the Royal Golf Club course?** The 18-hole championship course at the Royal Golf Club was designed by Colin Montgomerie. **Is there a school in Riffa Views?** Yes. Riffa Views International School, an IB World School, is located inside the community. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/riffa-views/ --- # University of Bahrain, Sakhir campus (جامعة البحرين، حرم الصخير) Learn · Sakhir · South Bahrain Bahrain's national public university, founded in 1986, with its main campus in Sakhir housing most of its colleges. The University of Bahrain was established in 1986 by Amiri decree, merging the Gulf Polytechnic and the University College of Arts, Science and Education. It is the largest public university in the country and admits thousands of new students every year. The main campus is in Sakhir, in the south of the island, not far from Bahrain International Circuit. It houses most colleges, including Arts, Business Administration, Law, Information Technology, Science, Applied Studies and Physical Education, along with Bahrain Teachers College. Other colleges are on smaller campuses: Engineering in Isa Town, next to Bahrain Polytechnic, and Health Sciences in Salmaniya near the Salmaniya Medical Complex. This split means some students travel between campuses depending on their programme. The arrangement lets the engineering and health colleges sit close to industry and hospital partners. The Sakhir campus has a central library, an English Language Centre, sports facilities including a swimming pool, and language institutes such as a Confucius Institute and a King Sejong Institute. It is a major employer and draws daily traffic to the Sakhir area. ## Highlights - National public university, founded 1986 - Main campus in Sakhir - Bahrain Teachers College on campus - Colleges of Arts, Business, Law, IT and Science - Engineering campus in Isa Town - Central library and sports facilities ## Good to know - Check which campus your college is on before arranging housing or transport. - Admissions and programme details are published on uob.edu.bh each year. - Morning traffic towards Sakhir is heavy during term time. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Type: Public national university - Main campus: Sakhir - Coordinates (approximate): 26.053, 50.51 - Website: https://www.uob.edu.bh ## FAQ **When was the University of Bahrain founded?** It was established in 1986 by Amiri decree, merging the Gulf Polytechnic and the University College of Arts, Science and Education. **Where is the University of Bahrain main campus?** The main campus is in Sakhir, in the south of Bahrain. Engineering is in Isa Town and Health Sciences in Salmaniya. **Is the University of Bahrain public?** Yes. It is Bahrain's national public university. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/university-of-bahrain/ --- # Royal University for Women (الجامعة الملكية للبنات) Learn · West Riffa · South Bahrain Bahrain's first purpose-built private university for women, teaching art and design, business, law and engineering on a 224,000 square metre campus in West Riffa. The Royal University for Women was licensed in 2002 and began teaching in October 2005 in temporary premises. It moved to its permanent campus in West Riffa in August 2006. It describes itself as the first private, purpose-built international university in Bahrain dedicated to women. Teaching is organised in three colleges: Art and Design, Business and Law, and Engineering and Technology, supported by a Centre for General Studies. Its early degrees were developed with McGill University in Canada and Middlesex University in the UK. It also offers foundation study for students who need to strengthen English or academic skills before starting a degree. Programmes include bachelor's degrees in areas such as interior, graphic and fashion design, business specialisms and a bilingual law degree taught in English and Arabic, as well as postgraduate study including an MBA. The university holds national accreditation, and its programmes are placed on Bahrain's National Qualifications Framework. The campus covers about 224,000 square metres at Gate 366, Muaskar Highway, West Riffa. It works with the Supreme Council for Women on research and community programmes through its Centre for Women's Studies. By 2022 the university had more than 1,600 graduates. ## Highlights - First private university for women in Bahrain - Campus of about 224,000 sq m in West Riffa - Colleges of Art and Design, Business and Law, Engineering - Bilingual law degree - Postgraduate programmes including an MBA - Centre for Women's Studies ## Good to know - Check ruw.edu.bh for the current programme list and admission dates. - Some programmes are recognised by ministries in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman; confirm for your specific degree. - The campus entrance is from Muaskar Highway, Gate 366. ## Key facts - Area: West Riffa - Region: Central south - Campus opened: August 2006 - Campus size: 224,000 sq m - Address: Gate 366, Muaskar Highway, West Riffa - Coordinates (approximate): 26.105, 50.55 - Website: https://www.ruw.edu.bh ## FAQ **Is the Royal University for Women only for women?** Yes. RUW is dedicated to educating women and was Bahrain's first private university for women. **What colleges does RUW have?** It has colleges of Art and Design, Business and Law, and Engineering and Technology, plus a Centre for General Studies. **Where is the Royal University for Women?** It is at Gate 366, Muaskar Highway, West Riffa, on a campus of about 224,000 square metres. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/royal-university-for-women/ --- # St Christopher's School, Senior School (مدرسة سانت كريستوفر، القسم الثانوي) Learn · Riffa · South Bahrain St Christopher's School, Bahrain's long-established British school, moved its senior school in 2026 to a new purpose-built campus of about 100,000 square metres. St Christopher's School was founded in 1961 and is one of the best-known British international schools in the Gulf. It is co-educational and teaches the British curriculum from Reception to Sixth Form, with students taking GCSEs followed by A levels or the International Baccalaureate. In August 2026 the senior school moved from its historic Isa Town campus to a new, purpose-built campus in the south of the island, covering around 100,000 square metres. The Isa Town campus closed with the move. The infant and junior schools remain in Saar. The new campus was designed around student feedback asking for more space. Facilities include a performing arts centre and a dedicated music and drama building, specialist STEM spaces, digital media studios and flexible learning areas. These spaces serve both students and the wider school community. Sport is a major part of the design, with a 50-metre swimming pool, a climbing wall, an athletics track and football pitches. The school has been listed among the top international schools in the Middle East by The Schools Index. ## Highlights - British curriculum, founded in 1961 - GCSE, A level and IB routes - New senior campus of about 100,000 sq m - Performing arts centre and music and drama building - 50-metre pool and athletics track - Infant and junior schools in Saar ## Good to know - Families moving from the old Isa Town campus should check new bus routes and drop-off arrangements. - Admissions are handled centrally for all three schools; apply early for popular year groups. - Younger siblings attend the Saar campuses, so plan for two school runs. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Opened: September 2026 - Campus: About 100,000 sq m - Status: Isa Town senior campus closed - Coordinates (approximate): 26.1, 50.57 - Website: https://www.st-chris.net ## FAQ **Has St Christopher's senior school moved?** Yes. In August 2026 the senior school moved from Isa Town to a new purpose-built campus, and the Isa Town campus closed. **What curriculum does St Christopher's follow?** It follows the British curriculum, with GCSEs and then A levels or the International Baccalaureate in the Sixth Form. **Where are the St Christopher's infant and junior schools?** The infant and junior schools are in Saar. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/st-christophers-senior/ --- # Riffa Views International School (مدرسة رفاع فيوز الدولية) Learn · Riffa Views · South Bahrain A small, non-profit IB World School inside the Riffa Views community, teaching from early childhood to the IB Diploma. Riffa Views International School, known as RVIS, is located inside the Riffa Views golf community, between its residential estates. It describes itself as a small, non-profit school and teaches from early childhood through to high school. Its setting among parks and lakes gives the school a quiet, residential feel. RVIS is authorised by the International Baccalaureate to offer the full continuum: the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme. It also runs an Arabic programme. In 2024 it announced its second IB re-authorisation since opening. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the Middle States Association. Campus facilities include an Innovation Hub, a library, sports facilities, a cafeteria and a clinic, and the community hosts tennis and football academies linked to the school. Its location suits families living in Riffa Views, Awali and the wider Riffa area, many of whom can reach school without joining the main highways. It is one of several international school options in the south, alongside St Christopher's senior campus and the American School of Bahrain. ## Highlights - IB World School: PYP, MYP and DP - Non-profit, small school - Accredited by CIS and MSA - Inside the Riffa Views community - Innovation Hub and sports facilities - Arabic programme ## Good to know - Living in Riffa Views does not guarantee a place; contact admissions early. - The address is Building 407, Road 4303, Block 943, Riffa. - Gate access to Riffa Views applies, so follow school instructions for visitor entry. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa Views - Region: Central south - Location: Inside Riffa Views - Standards: American - Coordinates (approximate): 26.106, 50.535 - Website: https://www.rvis.edu.bh ## FAQ **What curriculum does Riffa Views International School teach?** RVIS is an IB World School offering the Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. **Is RVIS accredited?** Yes. It is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the Middle States Association, and authorised by the IB. **Where is Riffa Views International School?** It is inside the Riffa Views community in Riffa, at Building 407, Road 4303, Block 943. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/riffa-views-international-school/ --- # Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (جائزة طيران الخليج البحرين الكبرى للفورمولا 1) Golf & Riding · Sakhir · South Bahrain Formula 1 returns to Sakhir on 12 to 14 March 2027, opening the season and staging Bahrain's first Sprint race under floodlights. The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is held at Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir. The first race, on 4 April 2004, was the first F1 grand prix in the Middle East, won by Michael Schumacher in a Ferrari one-two. The grand prix layout is 5.412 km with 15 turns, and since 2014 the race has run at night under floodlights. The 2027 race is on 12 to 14 March and opens the Formula 1 season. It will include a Sprint race for the first time at Sakhir, so there is competitive action on all three days. Pre-season testing is also due at the circuit from 24 to 27 February 2027. Tickets for all grandstands, including Main, Turn 1, Beyon, University and Victory, are on sale through bahraingp.com. The 2026 race, planned for April, did not take place in Sakhir because of the regional situation. Instead the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix was staged at Sepang in Malaysia in early October 2026, drawing a sell-out crowd. Bahrain has also hosted season openers before, including 2010, and staged two races in 2020. Race weekend suits motorsport fans, families and groups, with concerts, fan zones and support races around the main event. Expect heavy traffic into Sakhir on race days, and book hotels early as March is busy. Testing in late February offers a quieter first look at the new cars. ## Highlights - Season opener on 12 to 14 March 2027 - First F1 Sprint race in Bahrain - Night race under floodlights - 5.412 km grand prix circuit - Pre-season testing 24 to 27 February 2027 - First F1 race in the Middle East, 2004 ## Good to know - Buy tickets from bahraingp.com or BIC's official channels; the F1 site lists a waitlist. - Early bird offers have run for a limited time, so prices change. - Traffic into Sakhir builds well before sessions; allow extra time. - Evenings can be cool in March, so bring a light layer. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - First held: 2004 - Venue: Bahrain International Circuit - 2026: Sakhir race cancelled - 2027 race: 12 to 14 Mar 2027, season opener and first Sprint - Best time: 12 to 14 March 2027 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.0325, 50.5106 - Website: https://www.bahraingp.com ## FAQ **When is the 2027 Bahrain Grand Prix?** The 2027 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix runs from 12 to 14 March 2027 at Bahrain International Circuit and opens the season. **Is there a Sprint race in Bahrain in 2027?** Yes. The 2027 weekend will feature Bahrain's first ever F1 Sprint race. **Was the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix cancelled?** The race did not take place in Sakhir in 2026 because of the regional situation. It was held under the Bahrain Grand Prix name at Sepang, Malaysia, in October 2026. **How long is the Bahrain International Circuit?** The grand prix layout is 5.412 km with 15 turns. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-grand-prix/ --- # Bapco Energies 8 Hours of Bahrain (سباق البحرين للتحمل 8 ساعات) Golf & Riding · Sakhir · South Bahrain The FIA World Endurance Championship finale at Sakhir runs hypercars from day into night; the 2026 race was cancelled and 6 November 2027 is next. The Bapco Energies 8 Hours of Bahrain is a round of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the series that includes the Le Mans 24 Hours. Bahrain International Circuit has hosted the WEC since 2012, usually as the final round of the season. Hypercars and GT cars share the track, racing from afternoon into darkness under the circuit's floodlights. For spectators it is a relaxed alternative to Formula 1 weekend. Crowds are smaller, access around the circuit is easier and the eight hour race allows time to watch from several grandstands. The final round often settles championship titles, which adds tension late in the race. The 2026 race, set for 6 and 7 November, was cancelled in July 2026 by Le Mans Endurance Management because of the situation in the Middle East. Ticket and hospitality holders were refunded automatically. Barcelona and Monza took the last two places on the 2026 calendar instead. Bahrain remains on the calendar. The WEC has agreed to race at BIC until at least 2036, and the 2027 race is scheduled for 6 November 2027 as the season finale. Watch bahraingp.com for ticket sales. The event suits endurance racing fans, families and anyone wanting a full day at the track. ## Highlights - FIA WEC season finale - Racing from afternoon into the night - Hosted at BIC since 2012 - 2026 race cancelled with automatic refunds - Next race 6 November 2027 - Deal to race in Bahrain until 2036 ## Good to know - There is no WEC race in Bahrain in 2026. - Refunds for 2026 tickets were processed automatically by BIC. - Tickets for 2027 will be sold through bahraingp.com. - November evenings are mild, but bring a layer for the night stint. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Series: FIA World Endurance Championship - Status: 2026 round cancelled - Next scheduled: 6 November 2027 - Best time: 6 November 2027 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.0325, 50.5106 - Website: https://www.bahraingp.com/blog/events/fia-world-endurance-championship/ ## FAQ **Is the WEC 8 Hours of Bahrain happening in 2026?** No. The 2026 race was cancelled because of the situation in the Middle East, and ticket holders were refunded automatically. **When is the next 8 Hours of Bahrain?** The next race is scheduled for 6 November 2027 as the final round of the 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship. **How long will Bahrain host the WEC?** The FIA World Endurance Championship will race at Bahrain International Circuit until at least 2036. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/wec-8-hours-of-bahrain/ --- # Drag and Drift Nights at BIC (ليالي التسارع والانجراف في حلبة البحرين الدولية) Thrills & Events · Sakhir · South Bahrain On selected Monday evenings, Bahrain International Circuit opens its quarter-mile drag strip and drift area to anyone with a road car or motorbike that passes scrutineering. The Ebrahim K Kanoo Drag and Drift Nights let members of the public run their own cars and motorbikes at Bahrain International Circuit. You can race down the quarter-mile drag strip, which is part of the US-based NHRA Worldwide Network, slide around the vehicle dynamics area set up for drifting, or do both on the same night. The 2026 to 2027 season runs on Monday evenings from 6pm to 11pm. Dates published by BIC include 26 October, 9, 23 and 30 November and 28 December 2026, then 4, 18 and 25 January, 8 February and 22 March 2027. Every car or bike is checked by scrutineers before it goes out. Drivers and riders must wear a helmet, and loose clothing and open-toed shoes are not allowed. Helmets and suits can be rented on site. Friends can join as passengers or spectators for a fee. BIC also runs related nights through the season, including the Kanoo Motors Rolling Drag Night, which starts runs from a rolling speed, and Burnout Nights. For a taste without your own car, the Dragster Experience puts you in the passenger seat of a dragster, from age 16. ## Highlights - Quarter-mile runs on an NHRA-affiliated drag strip - Drifting in the vehicle dynamics area - Passenger rides with friends - Dragster passenger experience from age 16 - Spectator tickets to watch from the side ## Good to know - All cars and motorbikes must pass scrutineering before running. - Helmets are compulsory; no loose clothing or open-toed footwear. - Helmet and suit rental are available on site. - Check bahraingp.com for the latest dates, as the schedule can change. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Drag strip: Quarter mile, NHRA Worldwide Network - Booking: bahraingp.com - 2026-27 nights: Mondays, 26 Oct 2026 to 22 Mar 2027 - Best time: Monday evenings from late October 2026 to March 2027 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.036, 50.515 - Website: https://www.bahraingp.com/ebrahim-k-kanoo-drag-and-drift-nights/ ## FAQ **When are Drag and Drift Nights at BIC?** They run on selected Monday evenings from 6pm to 11pm. The 2026 to 2027 season starts on 26 October 2026 and runs to 22 March 2027. **Can I drag race my own car in Bahrain?** Yes. At Drag and Drift Nights you can run your own car or motorbike on BIC's quarter-mile strip once it passes scrutineering. **What do I need to wear for drag night at BIC?** A helmet is mandatory and you must wear suitable clothing and closed shoes. Helmets and suits can be rented at the circuit. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bic-drag-and-drift-nights/ --- # Bahrain International Airshow (معرض البحرين الدولي للطيران) Thrills & Events · Sakhir · South Bahrain The Bahrain International Airshow is a biennial aerospace show at Sakhir Air Base, and its eighth edition has been moved from November 2026 to November 2028. The Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) is a trade and public aerospace event held every two years at Sakhir Air Base in the south of the island. The first edition took place in 2010. It brings together aircraft makers, airlines, defence delegations and flying displays, and is organised with Farnborough International. The eighth edition was planned for 18 to 20 November 2026. On 7 September 2026 the supreme organising committee confirmed it would instead run from 15 to 17 November 2028. The official statement said the change would allow broader international participation. Some press reports linked the delay to the conflict in the region, but the organisers did not say so. Because the show is held every other year, the change means there is no airshow in Bahrain in 2026. Anyone who booked flights or hotels for November 2026 should review those plans, as no replacement dates have been set for this year. In normal years the airshow mixes trade days with public flying displays by aerobatic teams and military aircraft. Watch the official site for ticket details closer to 2028. ## Highlights - Flying displays by aerobatic teams (in show years) - Static display of civil and military aircraft - Trade exhibition and business deals - Next edition: 15 to 17 November 2028 ## Good to know - There is no Bahrain International Airshow in 2026; the next edition is 15 to 17 November 2028. - Sakhir Air Base is a military site with no access outside the event. - Public access and ticketing arrangements are announced closer to each show. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Venue: Sakhir Air Base - Status: Postponed to 15 to 17 November 2028 - Frequency: Every two years - Best time: Next edition: 15 to 17 November 2028 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.04, 50.535 - Website: https://www.bahraininternationalairshow.com ## FAQ **Is the Bahrain International Airshow happening in 2026?** No. The organisers moved the eighth edition, planned for 18 to 20 November 2026, to 15 to 17 November 2028. **Where is the Bahrain International Airshow held?** It is held at Sakhir Air Base in the south of Bahrain. **How often is the Bahrain International Airshow held?** It is normally held every two years. The first edition was in 2010. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bahrain-international-airshow/ --- # Gravity Village (قرية جرافيتي) Thrills & Events · Zallaq · South Bahrain Gravity Village is a compact leisure complex in Zallaq, a short drive from Bahrain International Circuit, built around Bahrain's only indoor skydiving tunnel. Gravity Village sits in Zallaq on the road between Sakhir and the west coast, at Avenue 62, Block 1058. Its centrepiece is Gravity Indoor Skydiving, which opened in December 2015 with a 12-metre glass flight chamber. The complex grew around the tunnel as a place to spend a few hours rather than just one activity. The Crag Rock Climbing is in the same complex, with climbing walls for beginners and regulars. A review in Skydive magazine described the village with restaurants and coffee shops, including Starbucks and a shisha lounge, plus football pitches and an outdoor gym. Check what is open before you go, as outlets change. It suits families with older children, groups of friends and anyone combining a day around Bahrain International Circuit, Janat Dilmun water park and the beaches of the south-west coast. Gravity flies Tuesday to Saturday and is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan visits for later in the week. ## Highlights - Indoor skydiving at Gravity - Climbing walls at The Crag - Coffee and food between activities - Combine with Bahrain International Circuit nearby ## Good to know - Gravity's official hours are 12pm to 9pm Tuesday to Thursday and 11am to 9pm Friday and Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday (gravitybah.com, October 2026). - The E2 bus (UOB Sakhir) stops at Gravity 1, a short walk away. - Book activities in advance at weekends. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Address: Avenue 62, Block 1058, Zallaq - Anchor: Gravity Indoor Skydiving - Best time: Late afternoon and evening; any season for the indoor tunnel - Coordinates (approximate): 26.039, 50.496 - Website: https://www.gravitybah.com ## FAQ **What is at Gravity Village Bahrain?** Gravity Village is built around Gravity Indoor Skydiving and also includes The Crag climbing walls and food and drink outlets. **Where is Gravity Village?** It is in Zallaq, at Avenue 62, Block 1058, close to Bahrain International Circuit. **Can you get to Gravity Village by bus?** Yes. The E2 bus (UOB Sakhir) stops at Gravity 1, a short walk from the complex. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/gravity-village/ --- # Gravity Indoor Skydiving (جرافيتي للقفز الحر الداخلي) Thrills & Events · Zallaq · South Bahrain Gravity in Zallaq is Bahrain's only indoor skydiving centre, where you fly with an instructor in a 12-metre glass wind tunnel. Gravity opened in December 2015 as Bahrain's first indoor skydiving centre. Its Aerodium-built tunnel has a tempered-glass flight chamber with an overall height of 12 metres, among the tallest glass chambers when it opened. It sits in Zallaq, about 35 km from Manama. A first flight starts with forms, then a flight suit, shoes, helmet, goggles and earplugs. An instructor gives a short briefing on body position, then flies with you. You start low, and as the airflow rises the instructor helps lift you towards the top of the chamber before bringing you back down. Bahrain's tourism authority lists the ideal age as 4 and over, with special prices for under-16s. Children can join a kids' flight club in superhero costumes, and Gravity runs birthday packages. Experienced flyers come for coaching and training. The tunnel hosted the FAI World Cup of Indoor Skydiving in October 2018. Indoors and air-conditioned, it is one of the few adventure activities in the south that works in summer. ## Highlights - Instructor-led first flight in a 12 m glass tunnel - High flights up the chamber with your instructor - Kids' flight club and birthday parties - Coaching for experienced flyers - Gift cards for first-timers ## Good to know - Official flying times are 12pm to 9pm Tuesday to Thursday and 11am to 9pm Friday and Saturday; closed Sunday and Monday (gravitybah.com, October 2026). - Book online in advance; Gravity's site links to Platinumlist. - Flight suit, helmet, goggles and earplugs are provided; wear comfortable clothes and trainers. - Children aged 4 and over are welcome; weight limits apply, so check with Gravity when booking. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Opened: December 2015 - Tunnel height: About 12 m, glass - Website: gravitybah.com - Best time: All year, as the tunnel is indoors - Coordinates (approximate): 26.039, 50.496 - Website: https://www.gravitybah.com ## FAQ **Is there indoor skydiving in Bahrain?** Yes. Gravity in Zallaq is Bahrain's only indoor skydiving centre, with a 12-metre glass wind tunnel. **What is the minimum age for Gravity indoor skydiving?** Bahrain's tourism authority lists the ideal age as 4 and over, and Gravity offers special prices for under-16s. **Do I need experience to fly at Gravity?** No. First-timers get a briefing and fly with an instructor beside them throughout the flight. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/gravity-indoor-skydiving/ --- # Sakhir desert trips (رحلات صحراء الصخير) Desert & Nature · Sakhir · South Bahrain Half-day desert trips from Manama link the Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan, the first oil well and the circuit, with off-road driving for those wanting more. Bahrain's desert is compact compared with its neighbours, with low ridges and gravel plains rather than giant dunes. The Sakhir area in the south is where most desert outings go. Trips are usually half a day and focus on landmarks rather than long drives, which makes them easy to fit around a city stay. Tour companies in Manama sell private and shared trips, often around four hours with hotel pickup. Common stops include the Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan, the first oil well, Awali, a camel farm, Bahrain International Circuit and the Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve. Itineraries differ by operator, and some resellers note that the Oil Museum may be closed, so confirm stops before booking. For driving thrills, Bahrain International Circuit runs an off-road experience with Ford Bronco 4x4s on a purpose-built course of sand, rock, hill and water sections. You can ride as a passenger or drive yourself with a professional guide. Nearby karting and Gravity Village add more options for a full day in the south. These trips suit first-time visitors, transit passengers with a spare morning and families who want a taste of the desert without camping. The cooler months are far more comfortable. In winter you will also see the Southern Governorate camping zones, when a season is running. ## Highlights - Half-day tours from Manama - Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan and the first oil well - Camel farms and Awali on some routes - BIC off-road 4x4 course - Easy to combine with the circuit or Gravity Village ## Good to know - Itineraries vary; confirm the exact stops, especially the Oil Museum, before you book. - Book through licensed operators; Bahrain Tourism lists approved tour agencies on bahrain.com. - Bring water, hats and sun cream even in winter. - The BIC off-road experience is booked through Bahrain International Circuit, not general tour firms. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Best season: November to March - Typical stops: Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan, BIC - Best time: November to March - Coordinates (approximate): 25.99, 50.55 ## FAQ **What do Sakhir desert tours include?** Most half-day tours visit the Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan and the first oil well, and some add Awali, a camel farm, the circuit or the nature reserve. Check each operator's itinerary. **Can you go off-roading in Bahrain?** Yes. Bahrain International Circuit runs an off-road experience in Ford Bronco 4x4s on a course with sand, rock, hill and water sections, where you can drive or ride along. **When is the best time for a desert trip in Bahrain?** November to March, when daytime temperatures are much lower than in summer. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/sakhir-desert-safari/ --- # Askar and Jaw coast (ساحل عسكر وجو) Beaches & Water · Askar, Jaw · South Bahrain Askar and Jaw are old coastal villages on Bahrain's south-east shore, passed on the coast road towards Durrat Al Bahrain. Askar and Jaw sit on the south-east coast of Bahrain in the Southern Governorate, south of Sitra and the industrial belt around Ma'ameer. The road through them continues south towards Durrat Al Bahrain at the bottom of the island. Askar is home to the shrine of Sa'sa'a bin Sohan, a companion of Imam Ali, which is a local landmark. Jaw has traditionally been home to the Al Bu Romaih tribe. Both villages keep a small-scale, residential character. This is a working shoreline rather than a beach resort. Small boats are moored along the coast, and the shallow eastern waters give wide views out towards Fasht Al Adhm, the large reef bank offshore. The coast here faces east, so early mornings bring the best light for photographs across the water. Low tide exposes wide sand and mud flats where wading birds feed. It suits drivers taking the scenic route to Durrat Al Bahrain, photographers and anyone curious about village life away from the city. There are few visitor facilities, so bring water. Swimming spots are not lifeguarded, and much of the shore is not set up for beach use. Treat the drive as a scenic route to Durrat and Hawar rather than a beach day. ## Highlights - Coast drive towards Durrat Al Bahrain - Shrine of Sa'sa'a bin Sohan in Askar - Small boat harbours - Views over shallow eastern waters - Quiet village life ## Good to know - There are few cafes or facilities; plan stops in advance. - Respect privacy in residential areas and around religious sites. - Dress modestly in the villages. - Swimming spots are not lifeguarded. ## Key facts - Area: Askar, Jaw - Region: South-east coast - Governorate: Southern - Leads to: Durrat Al Bahrain - Best time: October to April, early morning or late afternoon - Coordinates (approximate): 26.02, 50.62 ## FAQ **Where are Askar and Jaw in Bahrain?** They are villages on Bahrain's south-east coast in the Southern Governorate, south of Sitra, on the way to Durrat Al Bahrain. **Is there a beach at Askar or Jaw?** This is a working shoreline with small boat harbours rather than a resort beach, and there are no lifeguards. **What is Askar known for?** Askar is home to the shrine of Sa'sa'a bin Sohan, a companion of Imam Ali. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/askar-and-jaw-coast/ --- # Fasht Al Adhm (فشت العظم) Beaches & Water · East coast · South Bahrain Fasht Al Adhm is a vast, shallow reef bank off Bahrain's east coast, visited by boat for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Fasht Al Adhm is the largest reef area around Bahrain, covering roughly 200 square kilometres of shallow water off the east coast. The name refers to the wide sandbank and reef flats that sit just below the surface, giving the water its pale turquoise colour. Boat charters and yacht trips use the bank as a stop for swimming and snorkelling, and fishing trips work its edges. The surrounding waters were part of Bahrain's historic pearl beds. Expectations should be realistic. Marine scientist John Burt told NASA's Earth Observatory that there is little live coral left, after bleaching events in 1996 and 1998 and sediment from coastal development. Much of what you see is old coral framework, with fish and some living coral on rocky surfaces. It suits people who already have a boat or are booking a charter, and want calm, shallow water away from the coast. There is no land access. Charter operators set their own routes and safety rules, so confirm that a trip includes Fasht Al Adhm when booking. Go on calm days, take plenty of water and shade, and avoid touching or anchoring on what coral remains. ## Highlights - Swimming stop on a boat charter - Snorkelling over shallow reef flats - Fishing trips along the bank - Turquoise shallows far from shore - Part of Bahrain's historic pearling waters ## Good to know - Access is by boat only, through private charters or your own vessel. - Live coral is sparse; expect fish and dead coral framework more than a coral garden. - Avoid anchoring on coral and take all rubbish back. - Summer sea temperatures are high; go early in the day. ## Key facts - Area: East coast - Region: South-east coast - Type: Shallow reef bank - Access: By boat only - Best time: October to May, on calm days - Coordinates (approximate): 26.05, 50.7 ## FAQ **Where is Fasht Al Adhm?** Fasht Al Adhm is a large shallow reef bank in the sea off Bahrain's east coast, reached only by boat. **Is there good coral at Fasht Al Adhm?** Scientists report little live coral remains after bleaching in 1996 and 1998, so it is better for swimming and fish than for coral. **How big is Fasht Al Adhm?** It covers roughly 200 square kilometres, making it Bahrain's largest reef area. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/fasht-al-adhm/ --- # Bahrain Oil Museum (متحف النفط) Heritage · Jebel Dukhan · South Bahrain Bapco's Oil Museum, Dar Al Naft, opened in 1992 beside the first oil well to tell the story of Bahrain's 1932 oil discovery. Dar Al Naft, the Bahrain Oil Museum, is a small museum next to Oil Well No. 1 at the foot of Jebel Dukhan. It was inaugurated in 1992 by the late Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa to mark 60 years since oil was found in Bahrain in 1932. The museum is run by Bapco, now part of Bapco Energies. Displays cover the history of oil exploration on the island, with historic documents, photographs of early oil pioneers, equipment used in the first exploration work and models of drilling rigs. Next to the museum stand the restored well head of Oil Well No. 1 and Bapco's original office building from the early 1930s, so the site gives a clear sense of how the industry began. The story reaches beyond oil. The 1932 discovery came as Bahrain's pearling economy was collapsing, and it led to the Sitra refinery, the town of Awali and the first crude export in 1934. The museum places these changes in context for visitors who want more than a photo stop. Opening is limited and irregular. Several travellers and tour listings report finding the museum closed, so treat it as a bonus rather than the main reason for a trip. The well head and surroundings can still be seen, and the site fits easily into a loop with Jebel Dukhan and the Tree of Life. ## Highlights - Opened in 1992 for oil's 60th anniversary - Beside Oil Well No. 1 - Historic documents and pioneer photographs - Early drilling equipment and rig models - Bapco's original 1930s office nearby ## Good to know - Opening is irregular and the museum is often reported closed; check with Bapco Energies or a tour operator first. - The well head beside it can be seen even when the museum is shut. - The site is inside an oil field, so follow access signs. - Many desert tours list it, but confirm whether entry is actually included. ## Key facts - Area: Jebel Dukhan - Region: Central south - Run by: Bapco - Location: Beside Oil Well No. 1 - Best time: November to March, after checking it is open - Coordinates (approximate): 26.062, 50.554 ## FAQ **When did the Bahrain Oil Museum open?** Dar Al Naft was inaugurated in 1992 by the late Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa to mark the 60th anniversary of Bahrain's oil discovery. **Is the Bahrain Oil Museum open to the public?** Opening is limited and visitors often report finding it closed. Check with Bapco Energies or a tour operator before you go. **What is in the Oil Museum?** Historic documents, photographs of early oil pioneers, exploration equipment and drilling rig models, next to the restored first oil well. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/bahrain-oil-museum/ --- # Sakhir Palace (قصر الصخير) Heritage · Sakhir · South Bahrain Al Sakhir Palace is a historic royal palace in the Sakhir desert, used for state occasions and closed to the public. Al Sakhir Palace stands in the desert of western Bahrain, north east of Zallaq and Bahrain International Circuit. Sources differ on when it was built, giving dates between 1870 and 1901. It is a white palace in traditional Islamic style, with arches, columns, a dome and a tall minaret. Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Ruler of Bahrain, moved to the palace around 1925 and lived there until his death in 1942. It was then left closed for many years as a mark of respect, before being restored in the mid 1990s and returning to official use. Today the palace is a setting for state events. It has hosted visiting heads of state, including a 2008 visit by the US President, and on 16 May 2024 it was the main venue for the 33rd Arab League Summit, the first Arab summit hosted by Bahrain. The palace is not open to visitors, and there is no tour or viewing area. Drivers pass near it on the Sakhir road network and tour guides sometimes point it out. Photography near official and security sites can be restricted, so do not stop on the roadside or photograph checkpoints. ## Highlights - Royal palace dating from about 1870 to 1901 - Residence of Shaikh Hamad bin Isa until 1942 - Restored in the mid 1990s - Main venue of the 2024 Arab League Summit - Traditional Islamic architecture with dome and minaret ## Good to know - The palace is not open to the public. - Do not stop or take photos near gates or security points. - It is a landmark on drives between Zallaq, the circuit and Awali. - For royal heritage you can visit, Riffa Fort is the main site, though it is currently closed for renovation. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Access: Exterior only, not open to the public - Area: Sakhir desert - Best time: Seen in passing on drives through Sakhir - Coordinates (approximate): 26.07, 50.52 ## FAQ **Can you visit Sakhir Palace?** No. Al Sakhir Palace is a royal palace used for official events and is not open to the public. **How old is Sakhir Palace?** Sources date its construction to between 1870 and 1901. It was restored in the mid 1990s. **What events are held at Sakhir Palace?** It hosts state occasions and visiting leaders, and was the main venue of the 33rd Arab League Summit on 16 May 2024. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/heritage/sakhir-palace/ --- # Riffa Souq (سوق الرفاع) Shop & Dine · Riffa · South Bahrain Riffa Souq is the old market area of Riffa, a local shopping street for fabrics, garments, perfumes and everyday goods. Riffa Souq, also called Souq Al Riffa, is the older market area serving Riffa, Bahrain's largest city by area. Guides describe it as the older and larger of Riffa's two traditional markets, alongside the more modern Bukuwara Street market in East Riffa. Riffa is split into East and West Riffa, and the old markets grew up to serve these communities long before the malls arrived. Small shops sell Arabic garments, fabrics, perfumes, jewellery, carpets, spices and household goods. It is a local shopping street rather than a tourist souq, so prices and products are aimed at residents. The souq sits near Riffa's older neighbourhoods and is a short drive from Riffa Fort, which makes a good pairing for a half-day in the area. It suits visitors who want a feel for everyday shopping in the south. Shops are busiest in the evening, when the heat drops. Many small shops close in the early afternoon and at prayer times, so plan for late afternoon onwards. Bring cash for small purchases and dress modestly. ## Highlights - Arabic garments and fabrics - Perfume and oud shops - Spices and household goods - Combine with Riffa Fort nearby ## Good to know - Evenings are busiest and most pleasant. - Many shops close in the early afternoon and for prayer times. - Bring cash for small shops. - Dress modestly. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Type: Traditional local market - Area: Riffa - Best time: Evenings, October to April - Coordinates (approximate): 26.125, 50.56 ## FAQ **What can you buy at Riffa Souq?** Shops sell Arabic garments, fabrics, perfumes, jewellery, spices and household goods. **When is the best time to visit Riffa Souq?** Evenings are best, when shops are busiest and the heat has dropped. **What is near Riffa Souq?** Riffa Fort is a short drive away and makes a good pairing for a half-day visit. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/riffa-souq/ --- # Enma Mall (مجمع إنما) Shop & Dine · East Riffa · South Bahrain Enma Mall is East Riffa's main community mall, with more than 130 outlets on three levels including a hypermarket, fashion stores and family entertainment. Enma Mall opened in East Riffa in 2012 and has become a popular community shopping centre for residents of Riffa and the southern areas. A current leasing listing describes about 27,000 square metres of lettable space over three levels, with more than 134 outlets. Tenants have included Sharaf DG electronics, Red Tag, Twenty4 and brands from the Alshaya Group, plus optical stores and a large hypermarket for the weekly shop. Magic Planet opened its second Bahrain branch here in 2015, giving the mall an indoor games and rides centre for children. A food court and cafes make it an easy evening out. It suits families doing everyday shopping and those who want air-conditioned entertainment close to home without driving to Manama. Parking is on site, and evenings and weekends are the busiest times. Tenants change over time, so check the mall's social media for the current line-up before making a special trip. ## Highlights - Hypermarket for groceries - Fashion and value retailers - Electronics at Sharaf DG - Magic Planet family entertainment - Food court and cafes ## Good to know - Evenings and weekends are busiest. - Parking is on site. - Store line-ups change; check the mall's social media for current tenants. ## Key facts - Area: East Riffa - Region: Central south - Area: East Riffa - Type: Shopping mall - Best time: All year; weekday mornings are quietest - Coordinates (approximate): 26.128, 50.58 ## FAQ **When did Enma Mall open?** Enma Mall opened in East Riffa in 2012. **How many shops are in Enma Mall?** A current leasing listing describes more than 134 outlets over three levels. **Is there kids' entertainment at Enma Mall?** Yes. Magic Planet opened its second Bahrain branch at Enma Mall in 2015. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/enma-mall/ --- # Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship (بطولة بابكو للطاقة البحرين للغولف) Golf & Riding · Riffa Views · South Bahrain The DP World Tour comes to Royal Golf Club in Riffa Views on 28 to 31 January 2027 for the fourth Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship. The Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship is Bahrain's professional golf event on the DP World Tour, formerly the European Tour. It is played on the Montgomerie Course at the Royal Golf Club in Riffa Views and forms part of the tour's International Swing through the Gulf each January and February. The 2027 edition, the fourth, runs from 28 to 31 January 2027. It follows the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and comes before the Qatar Masters, so many of the same players move between the events. Spectators can follow groups around the course and watch the finish at the 18th. The first edition in 2024 was won by Dylan Frittelli of South Africa. Laurie Canter of England won in 2025 and Freddy Schott of Germany in 2026, receiving the trophy from the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The Bahrain Olympic Committee and the DP World Tour have a partnership keeping the event on the schedule until at least 2036, with Royal Golf Club confirmed for 2027 and 2028. The event suits golf fans, families and anyone who wants to see tour players up close in pleasant winter weather. Practice and pro-am days earlier in the week are quieter. Check official channels nearer the date for ticket, parking and spectator details. ## Highlights - DP World Tour event, 28 to 31 January 2027 - Fourth edition at Royal Golf Club - Part of the Gulf International Swing - Winners include Frittelli, Canter and Schott - On the tour schedule until at least 2036 ## Good to know - The 2027 dates are 28 to 31 January. - Royal Golf Club is confirmed as host for 2027 and 2028. - Bring sun protection; much of the course is open. - Ticket details are usually announced closer to the event. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa Views - Region: Central south - Tour: DP World Tour - Venue: Royal Golf Club - 2026 dates: 29 Jan to 1 Feb - Best time: 28 to 31 January 2027 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.104, 50.53 ## FAQ **When is the Bahrain Championship 2027?** The Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship 2027 is on 28 to 31 January 2027 at Royal Golf Club. **Who won the 2026 Bahrain Championship?** Freddy Schott of Germany won the 2026 edition. Laurie Canter won in 2025 and Dylan Frittelli in 2024. **Where is the Bahrain Championship played?** On the Montgomerie Course at the Royal Golf Club in Riffa Views, Bahrain. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-championship-golf/ --- # Awali Golf Club (نادي عوالي للغولف) Golf & Riding · Awali · South Bahrain Founded by oil workers in 1937, Awali Golf Club is the Gulf's oldest golf club, played entirely on sand with oiled putting surfaces called browns. Awali Golf Club was created in 1937 by golf-loving staff of the Bahrain Petroleum Company and is described as the oldest golf club in the Gulf. It sits in Awali, a few minutes from the Royal Golf Club. The 18-hole course has no grass at all: fairways are natural sand and rock, and players hit from artificial mats. The putting surfaces are browns rather than greens, made of fine compacted sand bound with oil, smoothed after each group and relaid regularly. Players learn to sweep the ball off the mat and land approaches short so the ball can run on. Locals talk about the Awali bounce, when the ball kicks off unexpectedly on the hard ground. The club hosts the Bahrain Open, first played in 1964 and the first Open in the GCC, and the Bahrain Ladies Open, which began in 1988. Both are 36-hole stroke play events held in spring. The club is run by its members on a voluntary basis, with long-standing support from Bapco. Awali suits golfers looking for something different from manicured courses, and those curious about the oil era's social history. Its sand courses inspired similar layouts built by oil companies elsewhere in the region. Visitors and spectators are welcome; contact the club ahead to arrange play. ## Highlights - Oldest golf club in the Gulf, 1937 - 18-hole all-sand course - Oiled sand putting surfaces called browns - Home of the Bahrain Open since 1964 - Bahrain Ladies Open since 1988 - Run by volunteer members ## Good to know - Shots are played from artificial mats on the fairways. - Expect unpredictable bounces on the hard sand. - Arrange visitor play in advance through awaligolfclub.com. - The Bahrain Open is usually held in April. ## Key facts - Area: Awali - Region: Central south - Established: 1937 - Course: 18 holes, par 70, sand - Event: Bahrain Open Championship - Best time: October to April - Coordinates (approximate): 26.087, 50.552 - Website: https://www.awaligolfclub.com ## FAQ **What is the oldest golf club in the Gulf?** Awali Golf Club in Bahrain, opened in 1937 by Bapco staff, is described as the oldest golf club in the Gulf. **What are browns in golf?** Browns are putting surfaces made of fine compacted sand mixed with oil, used instead of grass greens at Awali Golf Club. **Can visitors play at Awali Golf Club?** Yes, visitors are welcome. Contact the club in advance to arrange a round. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/awali-golf-club/ --- # Bahrain International Endurance Village (قرية البحرين الدولية للقدرة) Golf & Riding · Sakhir · South Bahrain The Sakhir base for endurance horse riding, where Arabian horses cover up to 160 km in national and international rides each cooler season. Bahrain International Endurance Village is the venue for endurance horse riding in Bahrain, a sport in which horse and rider cover long distances across the desert in timed stages, with veterinary checks between loops. It is in the Sakhir area and is used by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation, BREEF, which organises the national endurance calendar. Rides range from 40 km local races to 160 km international events. The headline fixture is the His Majesty the King's Cup Endurance Festival, whose 160 km international cup draws riders from across the Gulf and beyond. In the 2026 edition the 160 km race was won by Isa Hameed Al Anezi, with a separate 120 km race for private Gulf stables. The 2026 to 2027 season opened in mid October 2026 with five qualifying events: a 120 km international qualifier, two 100 km international qualifiers including one for junior and young riders, and local 80 km and 40 km races. Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa attended the opening day. The village is mainly for registered riders, stables and officials, but major festival days attract spectators interested in Arabian horses and Bahrain's equestrian heritage. Riders must qualify through shorter distances before longer international rides. Follow BREEF and the local press for fixture dates and results. ## Highlights - Bahrain's endurance riding venue - Rides from 40 km to 160 km - King's Cup 160 km international ride - 2026 to 2027 season opened October 2026 - Organised by BREEF ## Good to know - Races start early in the morning to avoid heat. - The venue is focused on competitors; spectator facilities are limited outside big festivals. - Fixture dates are published by BREEF and in the local press, not far in advance. - Respect horse welfare areas and vet check zones. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Organiser: Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation - Distances: 40 km to 160 km - Best time: October to March, early mornings - Coordinates (approximate): 26.015, 50.535 ## FAQ **What is endurance riding?** Endurance riding is a long-distance horse race over courses of up to 160 km, split into loops with veterinary checks to make sure each horse is fit to continue. **Who organises endurance races in Bahrain?** The Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation, BREEF, organises the season at the Bahrain International Endurance Village. **When is the endurance season in Bahrain?** The season runs through the cooler months. The 2026 to 2027 season opened in mid October 2026. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-international-endurance-village/ --- # Hawar Resort by Mantis (منتجع حوار من مانتيس) Stay · Hawar Islands · South Bahrain The only resort on Bahrain's Hawar Islands, reached by boat from Durrat Al Bahrain, with beach and overwater villas on a protected island. Hawar Resort by Mantis opened in January 2025 on the Hawar Islands, a group of low desert islands off Bahrain's south-east coast that is a protected nature area and an important breeding ground for the Socotra cormorant. The resort is operated by Mantis, an eco-focused brand within Accor. It has 104 keys, from rooms and suites to tented suites, beach villas and overwater villas, many with private pools. The resort fronts a beach of around 1.8 km and has a main pool, a spa offering massages and facials, and kids and teens clubs with nanny services available. There are five restaurants and bars serving Bahraini, regional and international food. Activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling on the house reef, jet skiing, horse and camel riding, birdwatching and a Bear Grylls Adventure Zone, together with a kids water park and adventure park. The journey is part of the experience. Guests check in at the Durrat Al Bahrain Welcome Pavilion at the southern tip of the main island and take a boat across, which the resort puts at around 30 minutes. Day passes with boat transfers have been offered in some seasons. ## Highlights - 104 rooms, suites, beach villas and overwater villas - Around 1.8 km of beach - Five restaurants and bars - Spa, kids club and teens club - Bear Grylls Adventure Zone and water sports - Birdwatching on a protected island ## Good to know - All arrivals are by boat from the Durrat Al Bahrain Welcome Pavilion; the resort asks guests to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure. - Boats run on a fixed schedule set by the resort, so check times when you book. - Hawar is a protected area; stay on marked routes and follow guidance around wildlife. - Pack for sun and wind, as there are no shops on the island beyond the resort. ## Key facts - Area: Hawar Islands - Region: Hawar Islands - Opened: January 2025 - Keys: 104 - Access: Boat from Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion - Website: hawarresort.com - Boat from Durrat: About 30 minutes - Best time: October to April, when sea and air temperatures suit beach days and outdoor activities. - Coordinates (approximate): 25.665, 50.78 - Website: https://www.hawarresort.com/ ## FAQ **How do you get to Hawar Resort?** Guests check in at the Durrat Al Bahrain Welcome Pavilion and take the resort's boat to Hawar Island. The resort describes the crossing as about 30 minutes. **When did Hawar Resort by Mantis open?** It opened in January 2025. **How many rooms does Hawar Resort have?** It has 104 keys, including rooms, suites, tented suites, beach villas and overwater villas. **Can you visit Hawar Resort for the day?** Day passes that include the boat transfer have been offered in some seasons. Check the resort's website for current availability. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/hawar-resort-by-mantis/ --- # Avani and Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer resorts (منتجعا أفاني وتيفولي بلاج الجزائر) Stay · Bilaj Al Jazayer · South Bahrain Two Minor Hotels resorts, a four-star Avani and a five-star Tivoli, being built on the Bilaj Al Jazayer waterfront with branded residences beside them. Edamah, the real estate arm of Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat, signed Minor Hotels in 2021 to operate two hotels at Bilaj Al Jazayer: a four-star Avani and a five-star Tivoli. They are Minor Hotels' first properties in Bahrain and sit along the main boulevard of the waterfront masterplan. Each hotel was announced with 110 keys, and the two share a beach club. The Avani is planned with rooms and suites, an all-day restaurant, an Avani Pantry, a pool and pool bar, a gym and meeting space. The Tivoli is planned with two restaurants, two bars, a café, a pool, a gym and spa facilities. Cebarco was appointed main contractor in 2024 for the hotels and the branded residences that sit alongside them, including Tivoli Residences. Construction reports targeted completion in 2026, after an earlier 2024 target set at signing. No opening date had been publicly confirmed by October 2026. Once open, the resorts will sit close to the Bahrain Surf Park, the public Jazaer beach, the Jumeirah resort and Bahrain International Circuit, making this stretch of the south-west coast one of the main leisure areas on the island. Check official announcements for any change in timing. ## Highlights - Four-star Avani and five-star Tivoli - About 110 keys per hotel at announcement - Shared beach club - Tivoli spa, restaurants and bars - Branded residences alongside the hotels - Next to the Bahrain Surf Park ## Good to know - The hotels are not open yet; check Minor Hotels or Edamah for an official opening date before planning a stay. - Key counts and timings have changed since the 2021 announcement, so treat early figures as indicative. - The branded residences next to the hotels, including Tivoli Residences, are sold separately from the hotel operation. ## Key facts - Area: Bilaj Al Jazayer - Region: South-west coast - Operator: Minor Hotels - Keys: 110 each - Status: Under construction - Coordinates (approximate): 25.97, 50.463 ## FAQ **Are the Avani and Tivoli hotels in Bahrain open?** Not yet. Both were under construction at Bilaj Al Jazayer, and no opening date had been confirmed publicly by October 2026. **Who is developing the Avani and Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer?** The developer is Edamah, the real estate arm of Mumtalakat. Minor Hotels will operate both hotels, and Cebarco is the main contractor. **How many rooms will the hotels have?** Each hotel was announced with 110 keys, and the two will share a beach club. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/hotels-and-resorts/avani-tivoli-bilaj-al-jazayer/ --- # Bilaj Al Jazayer (بلاج الجزائر) Live in the South · Bilaj Al Jazayer · South Bahrain Edamah's waterfront district on Bahrain's south-west coast, bringing the much-loved public Jazaer beach together with a surf park, two resorts and new homes. Bilaj Al Jazayer is a mixed-use beachfront masterplan on the south-west coast of Bahrain, developed by Edamah, the real estate arm of the sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat. It covers around 1.3 million square metres with roughly three kilometres of beachfront around the popular public beach. The beach masterplan was designed by Foster + Partners. It sets out a Beach Drive with shops and cafés at street level, a main boulevard set back from the shore, a large green park between coast and road, and piers that form sheltered coves. The architecture draws on Bahrain's traditional shaded courtyards and alleyways. The main projects are the Bahrain Surf Park, built with Wavegarden Cove technology, the four-star Avani and five-star Tivoli resorts by Minor Hotels with a shared beach club, and residences including Tivoli Residences. Smaller boutique hotels and homes are planned between them. The area is a short drive from Bahrain International Circuit, Al Areen and the Jumeirah and Sofitel resorts at Zallaq. For residents it offers something rare on the island: homes beside a natural, unreclaimed beach. As the hotels and surf park open, the beach is expected to become one of the island's busiest leisure spots. ## Highlights - About 1.3 million sq m with around 3 km of beach - Masterplan by Foster + Partners - Bahrain Surf Park with Wavegarden Cove waves - Avani and Tivoli resorts by Minor Hotels - Tivoli Residences beachfront homes - Public beach, parks and cycle paths ## Good to know - Parts of the district are still under construction, so some areas of the beach may be fenced off. - The public beach stays open to visitors; facilities vary while works continue. - Check the Bahrain Surf Park website for its opening and booking status. - Weekends and holidays bring heavy beach traffic in the cooler months. ## Key facts - Area: Bilaj Al Jazayer - Region: South-west coast - Developer: Edamah - Land: About 1.3 million sq m - Beachfront: About 3 km - Best time: October to April for beach days; early mornings and evenings in the warmer months. - Coordinates (approximate): 25.97, 50.46 - Website: https://www.edamah.com ## FAQ **Who is developing Bilaj Al Jazayer?** Bilaj Al Jazayer is developed by Edamah, the real estate arm of Mumtalakat, Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund. **What is being built at Bilaj Al Jazayer?** The plan includes the Bahrain Surf Park, Avani and Tivoli resorts by Minor Hotels, Tivoli Residences and an upgraded public beach with parks and promenades. **Who designed the Bilaj Al Jazayer masterplan?** The beach masterplan was designed by the architecture firm Foster + Partners. **How big is Bilaj Al Jazayer?** It covers about 1.3 million square metres with around three kilometres of beachfront. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/bilaj-al-jazayer/ --- # Al Areen Development (مشروع العرين) Live in the South · Al Areen · South Bahrain GFH's Areen masterplan turns the land around the Al Areen Wildlife Park into a township of homes, resorts, leisure and retail in the south-west. The Areen masterplan is a large township project in Al Areen, in the south-west of Bahrain, led by GFH Financial Group. Announced as covering about two million square metres, it combines residential, hospitality, leisure and retail uses close to the Al Areen Wildlife Park and Bahrain International Circuit. Hospitality is anchored by Raffles Al Areen Palace, the all-villa resort that opened in December 2023 at a ceremony that also launched the masterplan. Leisure includes the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park, opened in 2007 as the region's first fully themed water park. Residential communities are being built across the site, including Tilal Al Areen, a gated villa and townhouse community. Older parts of Al Areen also have freehold villas and plots that appear on the resale market. Buyers should check which cluster a home sits in, as each has its own developer and timeline. The Al Areen Wildlife Park sits at the centre of the area and is home to Arabian oryx, gazelles and other native species. Together with the circuit, the Zallaq beaches and Bilaj Al Jazayer, it makes Al Areen one of the main growth areas of the south. ## Highlights - About 2 million sq m township masterplan - Led by GFH Financial Group - Raffles Al Areen Palace all-villa resort - Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park - Tilal Al Areen gated community - Next to the Al Areen Wildlife Park ## Good to know - Some clusters are built and others are still at planning or construction stage; check the status of any plot before buying. - Freehold ownership is available in parts of the area; confirm the title of each property. - The wildlife park and water park keep their own seasons and hours, so check before visiting. ## Key facts - Area: Al Areen - Region: South-west coast - Master developer: Al Areen Holding (GFH) - Includes: Tilal, Raffles resort, Janat Dilmun - Coordinates (approximate): 26, 50.49 - Website: https://www.gfh.com ## FAQ **Who is developing the Areen masterplan?** The Areen masterplan is led by GFH Financial Group, a Bahrain-based financial group. **What is in the Al Areen development?** It includes homes such as Tilal Al Areen, the Raffles Al Areen Palace resort, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park and land next to the Al Areen Wildlife Park. **How big is the Areen masterplan?** GFH announced it as a township of about two million square metres. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/al-areen-development/ --- # American University of Bahrain (الجامعة الأمريكية في البحرين) Learn · Riffa · South Bahrain An American-model university in Riffa, launched in 2019 and accredited in the US by WSCUC, on a purpose-built 75,000 square metre campus. The American University of Bahrain was launched in 2019 by Elm Education, a Bahraini education investment platform set up by Mumtalakat. It was presented as the kingdom's first comprehensive, purpose-built, co-educational university based on the American model. It is aimed at students from Bahrain and across the Gulf. In 2023 AUBH announced US accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), a first for a university in Bahrain. It is also licensed by Bahrain's Higher Education Council. The accreditation means its degrees are reviewed to the same standards as universities in the western United States. Teaching is organised in a College of Arts and Sciences, a College of Business and Management, a College of Engineering and Computing and a College of Media and Design, with a Pathway Academy for foundation study. Programmes include business, computer science, engineering, data science and AI, at undergraduate and postgraduate level. The campus covers about 75,000 square metres and was designed by the US firm Ayers Saint Gross. It has labs, a library, a sports centre with indoor and outdoor courts, an auditorium and innovation spaces such as the Investcorp Innovation Lab. There are no on-campus dormitories. ## Highlights - US accreditation through WSCUC - Four colleges plus a Pathway Academy - Business, engineering, computing, media and design - 75,000 sq m purpose-built campus - Sports centre and auditorium - Investcorp Innovation Lab ## Good to know - There are no dormitories on campus, so students arrange their own housing. - Programme lists change each year; check the current catalogue on aubh.edu.bh. - The campus address is Building 1350, Road 4225, Block 942, Riffa. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Campus size: About 75,000 sq m - Access: Al Muaskar Hwy and Shaikh Salman Hwy - Coordinates (approximate): 26.112, 50.585 - Website: https://aubh.edu.bh ## FAQ **Is the American University of Bahrain accredited?** Yes. AUBH holds US accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission and is licensed by Bahrain's Higher Education Council. **When did AUBH open?** The university was launched in 2019 by Elm Education. **Does AUBH have student housing?** There are no dormitories on campus at present. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/american-university-of-bahrain/ --- # American School of Bahrain (المدرسة الأمريكية في البحرين) Learn · Riffa · South Bahrain A Pre-KG to Grade 12 American-curriculum school in North Riffa, run by Esol Education, with the IB Diploma in the final two years. The American School of Bahrain opened in September 2020 in North Riffa, close to the Bahrain National Stadium. It is operated by Esol Education in a joint venture with Elm Education, the education platform backed by Mumtalakat. Esol Education was founded in 1976 and runs schools in several countries. The school teaches a standards-based American curriculum from Pre-KG to Grade 12, with an Early Childhood Center using the Creative Curriculum model. In Grades 11 and 12 students can take the IB Diploma Programme, as ASB is an authorised IB World School. ASB holds US accreditation from both the Middle States Association and WASC and has been rated Outstanding by Bahrain's Education and Training Quality Authority. The school has capacity for up to 1,200 students. It describes itself as the first school in the kingdom with dual US accreditation. The campus covers 17 acres. Facilities include science, STEAM and food technology labs, a maker space, libraries, art and music studios, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, a 400-metre track and a regulation football pitch. There is also a cafeteria with lunch service and more than 200 parking spaces. ## Highlights - American curriculum, Pre-KG to Grade 12 - IB Diploma in Grades 11 and 12 - Accredited by MSA and WASC - Rated Outstanding by BQA - 17-acre campus with pool and 400 m track - STEAM labs and maker space ## Good to know - The address is Building 1528, Road 3429, Block 934, Riffa Al Shamali. - Capacity is around 1,200 students, so popular grades fill early. - The school is a short drive from Isa Town and the National Stadium. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Address: Bldg 1528, Rd 3429, Block 934, North Riffa - Curriculum: American - Coordinates (approximate): 26.15, 50.552 - Website: https://www.asb.bh ## FAQ **What curriculum does the American School of Bahrain teach?** It teaches a standards-based American curriculum from Pre-KG to Grade 12, with the IB Diploma Programme available in Grades 11 and 12. **When did the American School of Bahrain open?** ASB opened in September 2020. **Who runs the American School of Bahrain?** It is operated by Esol Education in a joint venture with Elm Education. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/universities-and-schools/american-school-of-bahrain/ --- # Bahrain National Stadium (استاد البحرين الوطني) Golf & Riding · Riffa · South Bahrain Bahrain's largest football ground, in Riffa, hosts the national team, club matches and major events, including the 2022 papal mass. Bahrain National Stadium in Riffa is the country's main football stadium and home of the Bahrain national team. Built in the early 1980s and opened in 1982, it holds about 24,000 spectators on a grass pitch. Club sides including Al-Riffa SC and Al Khaldiya also use it for league and continental matches. It was renovated ahead of the 21st Arabian Gulf Cup, which Bahrain hosted in early 2013. Work included new seating, sports lighting, a new roof, a new scoreboard and a replacement athletics track. The stadium is also used for combat sports and large public events. Its biggest non-football occasion came on 5 November 2022, when Pope Francis celebrated mass at the stadium during his visit to Bahrain, with King Hamad in attendance. It was the first papal mass held in the kingdom, and the stadium was temporarily refitted with a central stage for the occasion. For visitors, a national team match is the best way to experience the venue, with lively home crowds for Gulf Cup and World Cup qualifiers. League matches are cheaper and quieter. Check the Bahrain Football Association's channels and club social media for fixtures, kick-off times and ticket details. ## Highlights - Home of the Bahrain national team - About 24,000 capacity - Opened 1982, renovated 2012 - Host of the 21st Arabian Gulf Cup - Papal mass in November 2022 ## Good to know - Fixtures are announced by the Bahrain Football Association and clubs. - Arrive early for national team matches, when traffic is heavy. - Evening kick-offs are common in the cooler months. - The stadium sits in Riffa, close to the Isa Town and Riffa road network. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Capacity: About 24,000 - Renovated: 2012 - Best time: Football season, roughly September to May - Coordinates (approximate): 26.154, 50.547 ## FAQ **What is the capacity of Bahrain National Stadium?** It holds about 24,000 spectators, though some sources give higher figures. **Where is Bahrain National Stadium?** It is in Riffa, in the centre of Bahrain's main island. **Who plays at Bahrain National Stadium?** The Bahrain national football team, plus clubs including Al-Riffa SC and Al Khaldiya. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/bahrain-national-stadium/ --- # Boat to Hawar from Durrat Al Bahrain (رحلة القارب إلى حوار من درة البحرين) Beaches & Water · Durrat Al Bahrain · South Bahrain The regular way to reach the Hawar Islands is the Hawar Resort boat from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, a crossing of about 30 minutes. Hawar Resort by Mantis runs boat transfers from its Welcome Pavilion at Durrat Al Bahrain, at the southern tip of the main island. The pavilion is signposted inside Durrat, and the resort puts the drive from Bahrain International Airport at about 45 minutes. Durrat is a gated community, so carry ID and allow time at the gate. The crossing takes around 25 to 30 minutes over shallow, turquoise water. Arrival boats have been scheduled to leave the pavilion at 3pm, with the return boat leaving the resort at 1pm, though the resort says timings can change. In summer 2025 the resort sold day passes that included the boat transfer, with weekday and weekend options and credit for food, drink and spa treatments. Check the resort for current day pass offers. The trip suits overnight guests, day visitors and anyone wanting to see Hawar's wildlife. Watch for seabirds and, with luck, dolphins on the way. The resort asks guests to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure, and boats are booked in advance rather than sold on the quay. ## Highlights - Scenic crossing over shallow turquoise water - Seabirds and occasional dolphins en route - Arrival at Hawar Resort by Mantis - Day passes in some seasons ## Good to know - Arrive at the pavilion 30 to 45 minutes before your boat. - Published times were 3pm to Hawar and 1pm back, but the resort says they can change. - Book through hawarresort.com; walk-up places are not guaranteed. - Durrat Al Bahrain has a security gate, so carry ID. ## Key facts - Area: Durrat Al Bahrain - Region: South-east coast - Departs: Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion - Crossing: About 30 minutes - Booking: hawarresort.com - Best time: October to April for calm seas and mild weather - Coordinates (approximate): 25.82, 50.605 - Website: https://www.hawarresort.com ## FAQ **How long is the boat to Hawar Island?** The Hawar Resort boat takes about 25 to 30 minutes from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion. **Can I visit Hawar Island for the day?** Hawar Resort has sold day passes that include the boat transfer, mainly in summer. Check the resort for current offers. **Where does the Hawar boat leave from?** It leaves from the Hawar Resort Welcome Pavilion at Durrat Al Bahrain. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/hawar-boat-trip/ --- # Riffa (الرفاع) Live in the South · Riffa · South Bahrain Bahrain's main southern city, divided by a valley into East and West Riffa, mixing a historic fort with leafy villa districts, schools and universities. Riffa is the largest city in Bahrain's Southern Governorate. It is divided into East Riffa, the older town, and West Riffa, a newer district, with the Hunainiya valley between them. North Riffa extends towards Isa Town and the Bahrain National Stadium. Riffa was once the main settlement on Bahrain Island before Manama grew into the capital in the 19th century. Its best-known landmark is the Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort, rebuilt in 1812 on older foundations on a cliff above the valley. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa was born there. Today Riffa is a popular family area with villa districts, older neighbourhoods and modern compounds. It has a strong cluster of education, including the American University of Bahrain, the Royal University for Women, the American School of Bahrain and the new St Christopher's senior campus. The city sits close to Awali, Riffa Views and the Royal Golf Club, with the southern desert, Sakhir and Bahrain International Circuit a short drive away. Malls, hospitals and government services make it a practical base for life in the south. ## Highlights - East, West and North Riffa districts - Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort - Universities and international schools - Close to Riffa Views and the Royal Golf Club - Bahrain National Stadium in North Riffa - Villa districts and family housing ## Good to know - The fort has closed at times for renovation; check with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities before visiting. - School-run traffic is heavy on the main Riffa highways in the morning. - East and West Riffa have different characters, so view both before choosing where to live. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Governorate: Southern - Districts: East Riffa, West Riffa, North Riffa - Coordinates (approximate): 26.13, 50.555 ## FAQ **Which governorate is Riffa in?** Riffa is in the Southern Governorate of Bahrain and is its largest city. **What is the difference between East and West Riffa?** East Riffa is the older town around the fort, and West Riffa is a newer district. The Hunainiya valley separates them. **What is Riffa Fort?** The Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort was rebuilt in 1812 on older foundations and overlooks the Hunainiya valley. It served as a residence of the ruling family. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/live-in-the-south/riffa/ --- # Bear Grylls Adventure Zone (منطقة بير غريلز للمغامرات) Thrills & Events · Hawar Islands · South Bahrain The Bear Grylls Adventure Zone at Hawar Resort by Mantis runs survival-skills challenges for children aged 6 to 12 and adapted team sessions for adults. The Adventure Zone was created by the Bear Grylls Survival Academy (BGSA) with Hawar Resort by Mantis, the resort on Hawar Island that opened in early 2025. The zone launched in June 2025 and sits within the resort grounds, surrounded by the protected Hawar wildlife area. Children aged 6 to 12 take part in one-hour, instructor-led group sessions. Activities include raft and shelter building, fire lighting, knot tying and rope-based problem solving, with each challenge meant to teach them to work with nature. Adults get versions of the same outdoor skills, designed around teamwork, communication and quick decisions. These suit families, friends and company groups staying at or visiting the resort. The zone is part of a wider kids' offer at the resort, which also has a kids' water park, an adventure park and a kids and teens club. Reaching it means taking the resort boat from Durrat Al Bahrain. Sessions are booked through the resort, so check whether they are open to day visitors on your date. ## Highlights - Raft and shelter building - Fire lighting and knot tying - Rope-based problem-solving challenges - Adult team-building versions - Kids' water park and adventure park nearby at the resort ## Good to know - Access is by the resort boat from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, about 30 minutes each way. - Kids' sessions are for ages 6 to 12 and last about an hour. - Book through Hawar Resort, and confirm whether day guests can join on your date. - Bring sun protection; the challenges are outdoors. ## Key facts - Area: Hawar Islands - Region: Hawar Islands - Operator: Bear Grylls Survival Academy with Hawar Resort - Launched: June 2025 - Kids sessions: Ages 6 to 12, one hour - Access: Boat from Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion - Best time: October to April for outdoor sessions - Coordinates (approximate): 25.665, 50.78 - Website: https://www.hawarresort.com ## FAQ **Is there a Bear Grylls activity in Bahrain?** Yes. The Bear Grylls Adventure Zone by the Bear Grylls Survival Academy operates at Hawar Resort by Mantis on Hawar Island. **What age is the Bear Grylls Adventure Zone for?** Kids' sessions are for ages 6 to 12, and adults can take part in adapted team sessions. **How do you get to the Bear Grylls Adventure Zone in Bahrain?** Take the Hawar Resort boat from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion to Hawar Island, a crossing of about 30 minutes. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/bear-grylls-adventure-zone/ --- # Hawar dolphin and dugong boat safari (رحلة مشاهدة الدلافين وأبقار البحر في حوار) Beaches & Water · Hawar Islands · South Bahrain Hawar Resort by Mantis runs boat safaris into the seagrass waters around the Hawar Islands to look for dolphins and endangered dugongs. The waters around the Hawar Islands are rich in seagrass, which feeds one of the largest dugong herds in the region. A 2022 study reported nearly 700 dugongs near the islands. Bottlenose and other dolphins are also seen. Hawar Resort by Mantis offers an oceanic safari by boat to spot these animals in their natural habitat. Sightings depend on conditions and are never guaranteed, but the trip also passes seabird colonies and empty island shores. Other water activities at the resort include snorkelling on the house reef, kayaking and paddleboarding. Fishing is not allowed near the shoreline, which helps marine life close to the resort. Kayaking around the shoreline is a quieter way to look for birds and fish close to the resort, especially early in the morning. The safari suits families, wildlife lovers and photographers. Book through the resort as part of a stay or day visit. Trips depend on weather and sea state, so keep your plans flexible. Bring a hat, sun protection and a camera with a good zoom, and keep a respectful distance from any dugongs or dolphins you see. ## Highlights - Look for dugongs in seagrass meadows - Dolphin spotting - Seabird colonies on the islands - Snorkelling on the house reef - Kayaking and paddleboarding ## Good to know - Book through Hawar Resort; trips depend on weather and sea conditions. - Sightings are not guaranteed. - Bring sun protection, a hat and a camera with zoom. - Keep a respectful distance from dugongs and dolphins. ## Key facts - Area: Hawar Islands - Region: Hawar Islands - Run by: Hawar Resort by Mantis - Also offered: Kayak, paddleboard, snorkelling, fishing - Best time: October to April, on calm mornings - Coordinates (approximate): 25.66, 50.79 - Website: https://www.hawarresort.com ## FAQ **Can you see dugongs in Bahrain?** Yes. The seagrass waters around the Hawar Islands support a large dugong population, and Hawar Resort runs boat safaris to look for them. **How many dugongs live around Hawar?** A 2022 study reported a herd of nearly 700 dugongs near the Hawar Islands. **How do I book the Hawar oceanic safari?** Book through Hawar Resort by Mantis, which runs the boat trips from the island. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/hawar-oceanic-safari/ --- # Bahrain Wake (بحرين ويك) Beaches & Water · Durrat Al Bahrain · South Bahrain Bahrain Wake is the kingdom's only cable wakeboarding park, on the beach at Murjan Atoll 2 in Durrat Al Bahrain. Bahrain Wake describes itself as Bahrain's first and only cable wake park. Instead of a boat, riders are pulled by a cable system, which gives a steady pull and makes it easier to learn. The park is on the beach at Murjan Atoll 2 in Durrat Al Bahrain, next to Fuddruckers and Caribou Coffee. Sessions include all equipment and coaching. Options run from single and double sessions to full-day passes and hourly group bookings. For beginners, the team recommends a double session: one to learn to stand up and one to enjoy the ride. There is no minimum age, but riders must be able to swim. The beach has seating, so friends and family can watch. Bahrain Wake's team also ran an earlier cable park at Marassi Beach in Diyar Al Muharraq in 2017. The current park is at Durrat, open daily by advance booking. ## Highlights - Cable wakeboarding for beginners - Professional coaching included - Double session to learn and then ride - Full-day passes for regulars - Beach seating for spectators ## Good to know - Open daily 9am to 6pm by advance booking only (bahrainwake.com). - Riders must be able to swim; there is no minimum age. - Durrat Al Bahrain has a security gate: give your full name, ID number and car number when booking. - Modest swimwear is required in Durrat's public areas; bikinis are not permitted. ## Key facts - Area: Durrat Al Bahrain - Region: South-east coast - Activity: Cable wakeboarding - Location: Durrat Al Bahrain beaches - Best time: October to May; mornings in the hotter months - Coordinates (approximate): 25.82, 50.61 - Website: https://www.bahrainwake.com ## FAQ **Is there wakeboarding in Bahrain?** Yes. Bahrain Wake runs a cable wake park at Murjan Atoll 2 in Durrat Al Bahrain, with sessions for beginners and experienced riders. **Do I need experience for Bahrain Wake?** No. The park is beginner-friendly, and coaching and equipment are included. Riders must be able to swim. **How do I get into Durrat Al Bahrain for Bahrain Wake?** Durrat has a security gate. Give your full name, ID number and vehicle number when you book so access can be arranged. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/bahrain-wake/ --- # Durrat Marina (مرسى درة البحرين) Beaches & Water · Durrat Al Bahrain · South Bahrain Durrat Marina sits at the heart of Durrat Al Bahrain, the island resort community at the southern tip of Bahrain, serving private boats and yachts. Durrat Al Bahrain is a man-made island development at the far south of Bahrain. Its marina sits at the centre of three of the islands. When it was announced, the marina was planned to berth more than 400 boats from 10 m up to 70 m superyachts, with ART Marine advising on development and operations. A subsidiary, the Durrat Marina Yacht Club Company, was set up to develop and manage the marina and its services. A 2014 report said 113 berths were due to begin operating in the first phase. Current berth numbers are not published. For visitors, the marina area is a base for sailing, jet skiing and private yacht trips. Bahrain's tourism authority lists Durrat Al Bahrain among the spots where jet ski operators work. The Hawar Resort boat also leaves from Durrat. Durrat is a gated community, so plan access ahead. Combine a visit with Bahrain Wake at Murjan Atoll 2 or a boat to Hawar. ## Highlights - Private yacht and boat trips - Jet ski rentals through operators - Gateway for the Hawar Resort boat - Cable wakeboarding nearby at Bahrain Wake - Quiet waters at the southern tip of Bahrain ## Good to know - Durrat Al Bahrain has a security gate; visitors need a booking or host and ID. - Ask operators directly about fishing charters, which are not confirmed from Durrat. - Modest swimwear is expected in Durrat's public areas. - Check weather and sea conditions before booking water sports. ## Key facts - Area: Durrat Al Bahrain - Region: South-east coast - Planned berths: About 400 - Vessel size: 10 m to 70 m - Best time: October to May - Coordinates (approximate): 25.813, 50.605 ## FAQ **How many berths does Durrat Marina have?** The marina was planned for more than 400 berths for boats from 10 m to 70 m. A 2014 report said the first phase would open with 113 berths. **Can visitors enter Durrat Al Bahrain?** Durrat has a security gate. Visitors usually need a booking with a business inside, such as an activity operator, and ID. **Can I rent a jet ski at Durrat Al Bahrain?** Bahrain's tourism authority lists Durrat Al Bahrain as a base for jet ski operators. Book with an operator in advance. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/durrat-marina/ --- # Azure Beach Club Bahrain (نادي أزور الشاطئي) Beaches & Water · Bilaj Al Jazayer · South Bahrain Azure Beach Bahrain is a planned beach club with Greek restaurant Ammos at Bilaj Al Jazayer, run by Dubai's Sunset Hospitality Group, with opening still unconfirmed. Edamah, the real estate arm of Mumtalakat, signed with Sunset Hospitality Group at Gateway Gulf 2024 to operate the beach club at Bilaj Al Jazayer. It will be Bahrain's first Azure Beach, a brand that already runs in Dubai, Marbella, Doha and Beirut. As in Dubai, the club will be paired with Ammos, a Greek restaurant whose name means sand in Greek and which serves Greek island food. The beachfront concept will include pool and beach lounging, dining and sunset sessions. The club was announced for the second quarter of 2026. That date has passed, and the neighbouring public beach closed for works on 13 April 2026. No opening had been confirmed as of October 2026. Once open it will suit adults and groups looking for a day club on the south-west coast. Watch Sunset Hospitality Group's and Edamah's channels for news. The wider Bilaj Al Jazayer masterplan, which covers about 1.6 million square metres, also includes the planned Bahrain Surf Park and the upgraded public beach. ## Highlights - Bahrain's first Azure Beach club - Ammos Greek restaurant - Beachfront on the south-west coast - Sunset views over the Gulf of Bahrain ## Good to know - Not open as of October 2026; the announced Q2 2026 date has passed. - The adjoining Bilaj Al Jazayer public beach has been closed for works since 13 April 2026. - Day clubs of this kind usually take reservations and may set age and dress policies; check when it opens. ## Key facts - Area: Bilaj Al Jazayer - Region: South-west coast - Operator: Sunset Hospitality Group - Restaurant: Ammos (Greek) - Status: Announced for Q2 2026, opening not confirmed - Best time: Not yet open - Coordinates (approximate): 25.972, 50.46 ## FAQ **Is Azure Beach Bahrain open?** No opening had been confirmed by October 2026. It was announced for the second quarter of 2026. **Who runs Azure Beach Bahrain?** Dubai-based Sunset Hospitality Group will operate it under an agreement with Edamah. **What restaurant is at Azure Beach Bahrain?** The club will include Ammos, a Greek island restaurant, as at Azure Beach in Dubai. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/beaches-and-water/azure-beach-club-bilaj/ --- # The Crag Rock Climbing (ذا كراغ للتسلق) Thrills & Events · Zallaq · South Bahrain The Crag at Gravity Village in Zallaq is a climbing centre billed as Bahrain's largest outdoor climbing facility, with walls and routes for all levels. The Crag sits inside Gravity Village in Zallaq, next to Gravity Indoor Skydiving. It is billed as Bahrain's largest outdoor climbing facility, and Bahrain's tourism authority describes indoor and outdoor walls suited to beginners and experienced climbers. Staff provide the harnesses and safety gear and supervise climbs, so first-timers can try it without their own kit. Regular climbers use it to train on varied routes. Its sessions have run from late afternoon into the night, which makes sense in Bahrain's climate. It suits active teenagers and adults, groups of friends and anyone combining an evening at Gravity Village with skydiving or a meal. Climbing works the whole body, and the beginner walls let children and adults build confidence before trying harder routes. Afterwards, the cafes and the skydiving tunnel in the same village make it easy to turn one activity into a full evening out with friends. In October 2026 The Crag's Platinumlist ticket page was marked as event ended, so online booking may be paused. Contact the venue or check its social media before driving out. If it is not running, Gravity Indoor Skydiving next door is a reliable alternative for an evening of adventure in Zallaq. ## Highlights - Outdoor climbing walls in the desert - Routes for beginners and regulars - Gear and safety equipment included - Evening climbing sessions - Combine with indoor skydiving next door ## Good to know - Online booking via Platinumlist showed as ended in October 2026; confirm the venue is operating before you go. - Wear athletic clothes that allow full movement, not baggy clothing. - Climbing gear and safety equipment are provided. - The E2 bus (UOB Sakhir) stops at Gravity 1, a short walk away. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Location: Gravity Village, Zallaq - Type: Outdoor climbing walls - Status: Unclear: ticket listing ended Oct 2026, check before visiting - Best time: October to April, in the evening - Coordinates (approximate): 26.039, 50.4965 ## FAQ **Is there outdoor rock climbing in Bahrain?** The Crag at Gravity Village in Zallaq is billed as Bahrain's largest outdoor climbing facility, with routes for all levels. **Do I need my own climbing gear at The Crag?** No. Climbing gear and safety equipment are included, and staff supervise climbers. **Is The Crag Bahrain open?** Its online ticket listing was marked as ended in October 2026, so check directly with the venue before visiting. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/the-crag-rock-climbing/ --- # Padel Park, Gravity Village (بادل بارك، قرية جرافيتي) Golf & Riding · Zallaq · South Bahrain Padel courts at Gravity Village in Zallaq, sharing a site with Bahrain's indoor skydiving tunnel and climbing walls. Padel Park is a padel venue at Gravity Village in Zallaq, a sports and leisure complex in the south west of Bahrain. Padel, a doubles racket sport played in a glass-walled court, has grown fast in Bahrain, and the courts here give players in the south an option close to home rather than in Manama. Gravity Village is best known for Gravity Indoor Skydiving, Bahrain's indoor wind tunnel, and also has rock climbing walls, football pitches and cafes. That mix makes it easy to plan a group outing where some play padel while others fly or climb. Local guides list Padel Park as open from the afternoon until late at night, with bookings through the Malaeb app, a common booking platform for courts in Bahrain. Opening times and prices can change, so check the app or the venue's social media before you go. The courts suit casual players, groups of friends and those learning the game. Evening sessions are popular in the cooler months, and floodlit play is the norm through summer. The site is close to Bahrain International Circuit and the Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve. ## Highlights - Padel courts at Gravity Village, Zallaq - Next to Gravity Indoor Skydiving - Climbing walls and football pitches nearby - Bookings through the Malaeb app - Late evening play ## Good to know - Book through the Malaeb app; check current availability there. - Opening hours from third-party guides may be out of date. - Combine with skydiving or climbing at Gravity Village. - Bring court shoes; padel courts use artificial turf. ## Key facts - Area: Zallaq - Region: South-west coast - Location: Gravity Village, Zallaq - Booking: Malaeb app - Best time: Evenings, October to April - Coordinates (approximate): 26.0388, 50.4958 ## FAQ **Where is Padel Park in Bahrain?** Padel Park is at Gravity Village in Zallaq, near Bahrain International Circuit. **How do I book a padel court at Padel Park?** Bookings have been through the Malaeb app. Check the app for current times and availability. **What else is at Gravity Village?** Gravity Village has an indoor skydiving tunnel, rock climbing walls, football pitches and cafes. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/padel-park-gravity-village/ --- # Batelco Fitness on Track (باتلكو للياقة على الحلبة) Golf & Riding · Sakhir · South Bahrain Run, walk or cycle on the Bahrain International Circuit at 20 community sessions between October 2026 and April 2027. Batelco Fitness on Track opens Bahrain International Circuit to runners, walkers and cyclists of all ages for safe, traffic-free exercise on a world-famous track. Sessions alternate between Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 10pm under floodlights and Friday mornings from 6am to 10am. Runners and walkers use the 2.55 km inner circuit, while cyclists ride the 3.543 km outer circuit, the layout used for the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix. The track runs clockwise, cyclists keep right and overtake on the left, and helmets must be worn. A separate area is set aside for children's cycling, and an ambulance is on site at every session. The 2026 to 2027 season has 20 sessions, starting on 20 October 2026 and ending on 13 April 2027. There are no sessions in late February and early March, around Formula 1 testing and the grand prix. Parking is in the signposted Oasis North car park, with food trucks and seating in the Paddock North car park. The programme suits runners training for races, cycling clubs, families and anyone who wants to say they have lapped an F1 circuit. A season pass for regular participants is sold through BIC, and you can also register on the day. Bring a water bottle for longer sessions. ## Highlights - 20 sessions, 20 Oct 2026 to 13 Apr 2027 - 2.55 km inner circuit for runners - 3.543 km outer circuit for cyclists - Floodlit Tuesday evenings - Children's cycling area - Food trucks and seating ## Good to know - Book by calling BIC on 17450000 or register on the day, per bahraingp.com. - A season pass covering all 20 events costs BD 15 (bahraingp.com). - Cycling helmets in good condition are compulsory. - Park at Oasis North; follow signs to the track. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Running track: 2.55 km inner track - Cycling track: 3.543 km outer circuit - Season: Cooler months, check bahraingp.com - 2026-27 sessions: 20 Oct 2026 to 13 Apr 2027 - Best time: October to April; Tuesday evenings or Friday mornings - Coordinates (approximate): 26.0325, 50.5106 - Website: https://www.bahraingp.com/blog/experiences/fitness-on-track/ ## FAQ **When is Batelco Fitness on Track 2026 to 2027?** The season runs from 20 October 2026 to 13 April 2027, with 20 sessions on Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 10pm and Friday mornings from 6am to 10am. **Can you cycle on the Bahrain F1 track?** Yes. During Batelco Fitness on Track sessions cyclists ride the 3.543 km outer circuit at Bahrain International Circuit. **How do I register for Fitness on Track?** Call BIC on 17450000 or register on the day of the event. A season pass is available for regular participants. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/batelco-fitness-on-track/ --- # Up and Down Trampoline Park (حديقة أب آند داون للترامبولين) Thrills & Events · Riffa · South Bahrain Up and Down is an indoor trampoline park inside Wadi Al Sail Mall in Riffa, with foam pits, ball games and a party room. Up and Down Trampoline Park is one of the leisure anchors of Wadi Al Sail Mall in Riffa. It has a large trampoline floor, foam pits to jump into, and courts for indoor volleyball and basketball on trampolines. It is aimed at families but takes visitors from age five to 50. Everyone gets a short safety talk before jumping, and marshals watch the floor during sessions. The park hosts birthdays and private events in its party room. It has offered discounts for students and people with disabilities, and Tuesdays have been a ladies' day. Check the park's Instagram for current offers. Party packages usually bundle jump time with use of the room, which saves organising a separate venue. Groups and schools can also ask about private bookings. Being indoors and air-conditioned, it is a useful summer option for families in Riffa and the south, and it pairs well with a film at the Cineco cinema in the same mall. Wear comfortable sportswear, empty your pockets before jumping, and keep young children within sight of a parent or marshal during busy sessions. ## Highlights - Large trampoline floor - Foam pits - Trampoline volleyball and basketball - Birthday party room - Ladies' day on Tuesdays (confirm first) ## Good to know - Every jumper gets a safety briefing first. - Ages five to 50 are welcome. - Check @upanddownpark on Instagram for current hours and offers. - Grip socks are standard at trampoline parks; ask when booking. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: South-east coast - Location: Wadi Al Sail Mall, Riffa - Ages: 5 to 50 - Instagram: @upanddownpark - Best time: All year, as it is indoors - Coordinates (approximate): 26.129, 50.587 ## FAQ **Where is Up and Down Trampoline Park in Bahrain?** It is inside Wadi Al Sail Mall in Riffa. **What ages can use Up and Down Trampoline Park?** The park welcomes visitors aged five to 50. **Can I hold a birthday party at Up and Down?** Yes. The park has a party room and hosts birthdays and private events. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/up-and-down-trampoline-park/ --- # Cineco Wadi Al Sail (سينكو وادي السيل) Thrills & Events · Riffa · South Bahrain Cineco Wadi Al Sail is the Bahrain Cinema Company multiplex inside Wadi Al Sail Mall, the main cinema for Riffa and the south since 2016. Bahrain Cinema Company (Cineco) signed a deal with Wadi Al Sail Mall for a six-screen cineplex costing about US$6.5 million, and the cinema opened in 2016. It gave Riffa and the southern areas a modern cinema without the drive to Manama or Seef. Cineco also opened its Rendezvous restaurant beside the cinema in August 2016, with space for up to 136 guests, so you can eat before or after a film without leaving the mall. The cinema shows Hollywood, Arabic and Indian releases, in line with Cineco's other Bahrain sites. It is handy for families pairing a film with Up and Down Trampoline Park in the same mall. Showtimes, formats and ticket booking are on cineco.net and the Cineco app. Cineco is Bahrain's long-established cinema operator, and the Wadi Al Sail site gives southern residents the same releases as its bigger venues. Arrive a little early at weekends, when evening shows and the food outlets nearby fill up with families. ## Highlights - Latest Hollywood, Arabic and Indian films - Restaurant next to the cinema - Combine with Up and Down Trampoline Park - Online booking on cineco.net ## Good to know - Check cineco.net for current showtimes and to book. - Film age ratings are enforced at the door, so bring ID for teenagers. - Mall parking is free and on site. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: South-east coast - Operator: Bahrain Cinema Company (Cineco) - Opened: 2016 - Best time: All year; weekday evenings are quieter - Coordinates (approximate): 26.129, 50.5872 - Website: https://www.cineco.net ## FAQ **Is there a cinema in Riffa?** Yes. Cineco operates a cineplex inside Wadi Al Sail Mall in Riffa, which opened in 2016. **How many screens does Cineco Wadi Al Sail have?** The deal announced for the cinema was for a six-screen cineplex. **Where can I book Cineco Wadi Al Sail tickets?** Tickets and showtimes are on cineco.net and the Cineco app. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/cineco-wadi-al-sail/ --- # Wadi Al Sail Mall (مجمع وادي السيل) Shop & Dine · Riffa · South Bahrain Wadi Al Sail Mall is a community shopping centre in Riffa anchored by a hypermarket, a Cineco cinema and an indoor trampoline park. Wadi Al Sail Mall serves Riffa and the surrounding neighbourhoods with a mix of grocery, retail, dining and leisure. It was built as a shopping centre with cinema and hypermarket facilities, and its main tenants arrived around 2016. Cineco opened a cineplex here in 2016, followed by its Rendezvous restaurant in August 2016. A Géant hypermarket of about 3,000 square metres has operated in the mall, and Batelco opened a shop in December 2016. For families, the big draw is Up and Down Trampoline Park, with foam pits and trampoline ball games. Between the cinema and the trampolines, it is one of the main indoor leisure stops in the south. Families often combine a film with a jump session, then eat at the mall's restaurants. It is a practical, neighbourhood mall rather than a destination for luxury shopping, and is easy to reach from Riffa and Isa Town. Parking is on site. Evenings and weekends are busiest, especially around popular film times, so weekday visits are easier. ## Highlights - Cineco cinema - Up and Down Trampoline Park - Hypermarket for groceries - Restaurants and cafes - Telecom and service shops ## Good to know - Parking is on site. - Evenings and weekends are busiest, especially around film times. - Check cineco.net for showtimes before you go. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: South-east coast - Area: Riffa - Anchors: Cinema, hypermarket, trampoline park - Best time: All year - Coordinates (approximate): 26.129, 50.587 ## FAQ **Is there a cinema at Wadi Al Sail Mall?** Yes. Cineco opened a cineplex at Wadi Al Sail Mall in 2016. **What is there for kids at Wadi Al Sail Mall?** Up and Down Trampoline Park is inside the mall, along with the Cineco cinema. **Where is Wadi Al Sail Mall?** Wadi Al Sail Mall is in Riffa, in Bahrain's Southern Governorate. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/wadi-al-sail-mall/ --- # Southern Celebrations Festival (مهرجان احتفالات الجنوبية) Thrills & Events · Riffa · South Bahrain Southern Celebrations is a free National Day heritage festival run by the Southern Governorate at Khalifa Al Kubra Park in Riffa each December. The Southern Governorate holds Southern Celebrations as part of Bahrain's National Day season in December. National Day falls on 16 December, with 17 December marking the King's accession, and events run through the month. The festival has taken place at Khalifa Al Kubra Park in Riffa in December 2024 and December 2025. The 2025 edition included heritage pavilions, a poetry corner featuring young poets from the Folk Poetry Society, a traditional clothing pavilion, a coffee-making corner, stands for local entrepreneurs and folk performances. Southern Governor Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa has described the festival as a way to revive the governorate's heritage and pass customs on to younger generations. It is aimed at families and local residents. As of October 2026 the 2026 dates had not been announced. Watch the Southern Governorate's channels in late November. The wider National Day programme across Bahrain includes events in every governorate, so the festival is one of several heritage evenings families can attend in December. Entry has been free, and the park setting makes it easy to combine with a stroll and dinner in Riffa. ## Highlights - Heritage pavilions on traditional crafts and trades - Poetry corner with young folk poets - Traditional dress displays - Arabic coffee corner - Folk music and dance ## Good to know - Entry has been free. - 2026 dates were not announced as of October 2026. - Evenings are cooler and busier; expect family crowds. - Park parking fills up on festival nights. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Organiser: Southern Governorate - When: December, National Day season - Venue: Khalifa Al Kubra Park, Riffa - Best time: December, during the National Day season - Coordinates (approximate): 26.127, 50.565 ## FAQ **When is the Southern Celebrations festival in Riffa?** It is held in December as part of Bahrain's National Day season. The 2026 dates had not been announced as of October 2026. **Where is the Southern Celebrations festival held?** Recent editions were held at Khalifa Al Kubra Park in Riffa. **Who organises Southern Celebrations?** The Southern Governorate organises the festival. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/thrills-and-events/southern-celebrations-festival/ --- # Jewellery Arabia (معرض الجواهر العربية) Shop & Dine · Sakhir · South Bahrain Jewellery Arabia is the Gulf's major jewellery and watch exhibition, held at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir on 24 to 28 November 2026. Jewellery Arabia is an annual show of fine jewellery, watches, gemstones and pearls that has run in Bahrain for more than three decades. It is now held at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir, and draws buyers, collectors and shoppers from across the Gulf. The 2026 edition runs from 24 to 28 November 2026. The organisers list more than 700 exhibitors and brands from over 25 countries, from big international houses to Bahraini jewellers and pearl merchants. Many pieces are on sale on the stands. Scent Arabia, a perfume and fragrance show, runs at the same venue on the same dates, so one visit covers both. Visitor registration is open on the official website. The 2025 edition offered free entry by online registration, and the 2026 site again asks visitors to register in advance. ## Highlights - 700+ jewellery and watch exhibitors - Bahraini pearls and gold - International watch brands - Scent Arabia fragrance show alongside - Shop pieces directly from the stands ## Good to know - Register as a visitor online before you go. - Read the visitor terms and conditions on jewelleryarabia.com, including any age limits. - Evenings and the final weekend are busiest. - Parking is at Exhibition World Bahrain; allow time on opening day. ## Key facts - Area: Sakhir - Region: Central south - Venue: Exhibition World Bahrain - 2026 dates: 24 to 28 Nov 2026 (listed) - Website: jewelleryarabia.com - Best time: 24 to 28 November 2026 - Coordinates (approximate): 26.047, 50.523 - Website: https://www.jewelleryarabia.com ## FAQ **When is Jewellery Arabia 2026?** Jewellery Arabia 2026 runs from 24 to 28 November 2026 at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir. **Is Jewellery Arabia free to enter?** Visitors register online in advance. The 2025 edition offered free entry with registration; check jewelleryarabia.com for 2026 terms. **How many exhibitors are at Jewellery Arabia?** The organisers list more than 700 exhibitors and brands from over 25 countries. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/shopping-and-dining/jewellery-arabia/ --- # Al-Riffa Sports Club (نادي الرفاع الرياضي) Golf & Riding · Riffa · South Bahrain Founded in 1953 as West Riffa, Al-Riffa SC is one of Bahrain's leading football clubs, with 14 league titles and a home at the national stadium. Al-Riffa Sports Club is a football club based in Riffa. It was founded in 1953 as West Riffa Sports Club and took its current name in 2001. The club plays its home matches at Bahrain National Stadium in Riffa, the country's largest football ground. Riffa is among Bahrain's most successful sides, with 14 Bahraini Premier League titles counting the West Riffa era. The first came in 1982 and the most recent in 2022. The club has also won the King's Cup seven times and the FA Cup four times. In Asian competition the club's best run was a semi-final in the 2010 AFC Cup, and it has reached the knockout stages in several other seasons. In the 2025 to 2026 Premier League, Riffa finished third behind champions Al-Muharraq and Al Khaldiya. Matches suit football fans who want to see top-flight Bahraini football and big local derbies. Crowds are usually relaxed and family friendly. Fixtures, kick-off times and ticket details are published by the Bahrain Football Association and on the club's social media. ## Highlights - Founded 1953 as West Riffa - 14 Bahraini Premier League titles - Seven King's Cups - 2010 AFC Cup semi-finalists - Home ground: Bahrain National Stadium ## Good to know - Check fixtures with the Bahrain Football Association before travelling. - Derbies against Al-Muharraq and other top sides draw the biggest crowds. - Evening kick-offs are common in the cooler months. - The stadium is in Riffa with on-site parking. ## Key facts - Area: Riffa - Region: Central south - Founded: 1953 - Home ground: Bahrain National Stadium - Best time: Football season, roughly September to May - Coordinates (approximate): 26.154, 50.547 ## FAQ **When was Al-Riffa SC founded?** The club was founded in 1953 as West Riffa Sports Club and became Al-Riffa Sports Club in 2001. **How many league titles has Al-Riffa won?** Al-Riffa has won the Bahraini Premier League 14 times, most recently in 2022. **Where does Al-Riffa SC play?** Its home ground is Bahrain National Stadium in Riffa. Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/sport-golf-and-riding/al-riffa-sports-club/ --- # What's On in South Bahrain - 23 Oct 2026: [TUL8TE Live at Beyon Al Dana](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/tul8te-live-beyon-al-dana-2026/), The Desert Garden, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre (confirmed) - 23 Oct 2026 to 29 Apr 2027 (16 dates): [BIC Open Track Season](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bic-open-track-season-2026-27/), Bahrain International Circuit (confirmed) - 24 Oct 2026: [Dar Al Riffa Al Ouda](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/dar-al-riffa-al-ouda-2026/), Dar Al Riffa (confirmed) - 30 Oct 2026: [Shawn Chidiac Live](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/shawn-chidiac-live-2026/), Grand Hall, Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 30 Oct 2026 to 29 Jan 2027: [National Race Day Series](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/national-race-day-2026-27/), Bahrain International Circuit (confirmed) - 30 Oct 2026 to 16 Apr 2027: [Bahrain Horse Racing Season 2026-27](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/horse-racing-season-2026-27/), Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (confirmed) - 6 to 7 Nov 2026: [Bahrain Comic Con 2026](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-comic-con-2026/), Bahrain International Circuit (confirmed) - 6 to 7 Nov 2026: [Royal Bahrain Concours 2026](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/royal-bahrain-concours-2026/), Royal Golf Club (confirmed) - 7 Nov 2026: [Dar Shabab Al Riffa Band](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/dar-shabab-al-riffa-band-2026/), Dar Al Riffa (confirmed) - 12 Nov 2026: [Bryson Tiller](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bryson-tiller-bahrain-2026/), Terminal 4 by Beyon, Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 13 Nov 2026: [Bahrain International Trophy](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-international-trophy-2026/), Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (confirmed) - 18 to 20 Nov 2026 (moved to 15 to 17 Nov 2028): [Bahrain International Airshow](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/airshow-2026/), Sakhir Air Base (postponed) - 21 Nov 2026: [Dar Al Budaiya Al Janoubiya Band](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/dar-al-budaiya-al-janoubiya-2026/), Dar Al Riffa (confirmed) - 21 Nov 2026 to 5 Feb 2027: [Bahrain Rotax MAX Challenge](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-rotax-max-challenge-2026-27/), Bahrain International Karting Circuit (confirmed) - 24 to 28 Nov 2026: [Jewellery Arabia 2026](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/jewellery-arabia-2026/), Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 24 to 28 Nov 2026: [Scent Arabia 2026](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/scent-arabia-2026/), Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 24 to 28 Nov 2026: [Cityscape Bahrain 2026](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/cityscape-bahrain-2026/), Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 24 Nov 2026 to 26 Mar 2027: [Bahrain Drag Racing Championship](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-drag-racing-championship-2026-27/), Bahrain International Circuit drag strip (confirmed) - Dates to be announced: [Sakhir Desert Camping Season 2026-27](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/camping-season-2026-27/), Sakhir desert (tentative) - 5 Dec 2026: [Trevor Noah](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/trevor-noah-bahrain-2026/), Terminal 4 by Beyon, Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 8 to 12 Dec 2026: [Bahrain Coffee Festival 2026](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-coffee-festival-2026/), Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 11 to 12 Dec 2026: [Ferrari Challenge Middle East](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/ferrari-challenge-middle-east-2026/), Bahrain International Circuit (tentative) - 18 Dec 2026 to 4 Mar 2027: [Bahrain Turf Series](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-turf-series-2026-27/), Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (confirmed) - 24 Jan to 2 Feb 2027: [The Autumn Fair 2027](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/autumn-fair-2027/), Exhibition World Bahrain (confirmed) - 28 to 29 Jan 2027: [Crown Prince's Cup Festival](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/crown-princes-cup-racing-2027/), Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (confirmed) - 28 to 31 Jan 2027: [Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship 2027](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-championship-2027/), Royal Golf Club (confirmed) - 18 Feb 2027: [Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Cup](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/nasser-bin-hamad-cup-2027/), Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (confirmed) - 24 to 27 Feb 2027: [F1 Pre-Season Testing 2027](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/f1-pre-season-testing-2027/), Bahrain International Circuit (confirmed) - Dates to be announced: [Spring of Culture 2027](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/spring-of-culture-2027/), Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre and venues across Bahrain (tentative) - 4 to 5 Mar 2027: [His Majesty the King's Cup Festival](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/kings-cup-racing-2027/), Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (confirmed) - 12 to 14 Mar 2027: [Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2027](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-grand-prix-2027/), Bahrain International Circuit (confirmed) - 19 Mar 2027: [André Rieu and His Johann Strauss Orchestra](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/andre-rieu-bahrain-2027/), Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre (confirmed) - 24 to 28 Mar 2027: [Bahrain International Garden Show 2027](https://bahrainsouth.com/whats-on/bahrain-garden-show-2027/), Exhibition World Bahrain (tentative)