Sakhir and the south: desert, racing and wildlife

Why visit the south

The south shows a side of Bahrain that the busy north does not: big skies, desert colours and space. Most of it is reserved for oil fields and a royal hunting area, so it is lightly populated, but a good road network makes it easy to cover in a day. In winter, Bahraini families set up desert camps here, and the cool evenings are glorious.

The Bahrain International Circuit

Sakhir is home to the Bahrain International Circuit, which hosted the first Formula 1 race in the Middle East in 2004. The Grand Prix, usually in spring, is the country's biggest event, held under floodlights with concerts and fan zones. Outside race weekends, the circuit runs track experiences, drag racing nights and the Bahrain International Karting Circuit, where anyone can race. Book through the official circuit website and check the event calendar before you go.

The Tree of Life

The Tree of Life is a single mesquite tree, around four hundred years old, growing on a small sandy ridge in bare desert with no obvious source of water. Scientists believe its roots reach deep groundwater, but the mystery has made it a local legend. There is not much to do there besides look and take photos, so combine it with Jebel Dukhan, the low hill that is the highest point in Bahrain, and the oil fields around it.

Oil heritage

Near Jebel Dukhan is the site of Bahrain's first oil well, drilled in 1931 and producing from 1932, the first on the Arab side of the Gulf. A small museum explains how oil transformed the island. Nearby Awali was built as the oil company town, and its leafy streets, bungalows and old clubhouse feel very different from the rest of the country.

Al Areen Wildlife Park

This desert reserve protects Arabian oryx, gazelles, ostriches and many bird species, along with native plants. Visitors tour by bus with a guide. It is particularly good for families. Next door, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is one of the largest water parks in the region, open in the warmer months.

The west coast

The west coast at Zallaq and Al Jazayer has the island's quietest beaches. Al Jazayer Beach is a public beach with shallow water and picnic areas, busy with families at weekends. Luxury resorts have opened along this coast, giving it a growing choice of places to stay. Further south and off limits to casual visitors are royal and military areas, so follow signs and do not wander off public roads.

Hawar Islands

Off the south east coast, the Hawar Islands are a protected nature area with seabirds such as the Socotra cormorant, dugongs in the surrounding waters and empty beaches. Access is by boat and has varied over the years, so check the current situation locally before planning a trip.

Where to stay

Most people visit the south as a day trip from Manama. If you want a beach stay, the resorts at Zallaq and Al Jazayer give you a peaceful base with pools and spas. During the Grand Prix, rooms across Bahrain fill early, so book well ahead. Compare stays on our travel page.

Getting around

There is very little public transport in the south. Use a taxi or ride hailing app, book a tour, or agree a day rate with a driver. On race weekends, follow the official circuit transport guidance.

Practical tips

The desert is extremely hot from May to September: visit in the cooler months, start early and carry plenty of water. Do not drive off road without experience and permission. Pair the south with Manama or a beach stay, and plan the day with the free trip planner.