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Asia Bahrain Bahrain Do & See Al Dar Island

Overview

Al Dar Island

The guide was updated: 2025-09-03

Al Dar Island is often regarded as home to some of Bahrain’s finest beaches. By day it is quiet, calm, and family-friendly, while by night it transforms into a lively spot with DJ parties. Access is arranged through the reservation office, where you take a bus followed by a boat transfer to reach the island. Although small, it has its own restaurant and a shop selling food, drinks, and gifts. Note that bringing your own food is not permitted.

Useful Information

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Bahrain World Trade Center

Bahrain World Trade Center

The Bahrain World Trade Center is one of the country’s most recognisable landmarks and a defining feature of its skyline. The complex is open to the public, where you can admire its striking architecture, explore the popular MODA Mall, or dine in its restaurants. The twin towers are connected by three skybridges, each fitted with a wind turbine, an innovative feature that harnesses the strong Gulf winds. On breezy days, you can often see them turning. Frequently featured on postcards and travel guides, this building has become a modern symbol of Bahrain.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Bahrain's grand mosque, named after the founder of the country, is a sight to behold. It's one of the largest mosques in the world, accommodating 7,000 worshipers and containing a library with many ancient volumes. Its precious materials were brought from all over the world and processed by local craftspeople. Visitors have been endlessly fascinated by the huge domes and the beautiful calligraphy ornamenting the walls. Guided tours are available in both English and Arabic.

Bahrain Fort

Bahrain Fort

Just outside of Manama lies the imposing, centuries-old Qal'at al-Bahrain, originally built by the Portuguese in order to defend their outposts in the Gulf. The site has been in use for almost 5,000 years, and the archaeological digs around the fort showcase the rich history of the area, including the ruins of two earlier forts.

Tree of Life

Tree of Life

An old belief says that Bahrain was the location of the Garden of Eden. This majestic tree is considered to be all that is left of it. At over 400 years old, this solitary mesquite tree has survived in the desert for centuries and is believed to be the site where ancient cults practised worshipping rituals.

Pearling Path Visitor & Experience Center

Pearling Path Visitor & Experience Center

Pearl collecting has long been a central tradition in Bahrain, and the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Center brings this heritage to life. Located in the former capital, Muharraq, the site tells the story of the village’s roads, houses, and daily life during the pearling era. The restored historic homes provide a glimpse into how people once lived, while the trail itself reflects the cultural and economic importance of pearling, which once dominated the Gulf. Today, the Pearling Path offers a walking route through some of Muharraq’s oldest and most atmospheric neighbourhoods.

Bahrain National Museum

Bahrain National Museum

Housed in an impressive building that seems to float effortlessly on calm waters, Bahrain's National Museum is the country's most visited attraction. It provides a thorough and fascinating tour through the archaeological, artistic, and cultural history of the country, with its numerous exhibits, including traditional handicrafts, manuscripts, and burial mounds.

Beit Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa (House)

Beit Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa (House)

This majestic building of Beit Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa was once the seat of power for the ruling Sheikh, and it is one of the finest and best-preserved traditional Gulf buildings found anywhere. A marvel of architecture, the rooms are kept quite cool in the summer heat through an inventive system of draft towers. Though unfurnished, the meticulous decoration in the different rooms deserves hours of examination.

Souq Bab Al Bahrain

Souq Bab Al Bahrain

For an authentic local shopping experience, there is no better place than Souq Bab Al Bahrain, the old bazaar of Manama. Look for the best bargains and haggle with traders in this melting pot of alleys and narrow streets. Its numerous stalls and shops sell everything you may long for: from spices, jewellery and gold items to colourful textiles and handcraft rugs. Several souvenir shops and street-food kiosks can also be found in the market.

Bahrain National Theatre

Bahrain National Theatre

Emerging from the placid waters just like the nearby National Museum, the National Theatre is one of the biggest theatres in the Arab world. It hosts performances by some of the foremost artists in the world, ranging from classical music and ballet to contemporary shows. The impressive architectural achievement owns much to local tradition with the wooden interiors and the 1,001 seats inspired by the world-famous Arabic tales.

Bahrain International Circuit

Bahrain International Circuit

A must-see for motorsports enthusiasts, the Bahrain Formula 1 racetrack is a modern structure located just at the heart of the Shakir desert. Besides the Bahrain Grand Prix, it hosts many events and offers tours as well as a variety of driving experiences.

Bahrain International Karting Circuit

Bahrain International Karting Circuit

After a visit to the Bahrain International Circuit, you might be eager to experience the thrill of racing. The Bahrain International Karting Circuit, located on the same grounds, offers a 1.4-kilometre track, featuring a mix of challenging curves and varied terrain. It's an exciting option for both adults and children.

Dilmun Burial Mounds

Dilmun Burial Mounds

This burial site complex is believed to be the largest prehistoric cemetery in the world, encompassing thousands of burial mounds spread throughout the island's northern area. Dating as far back as the Dilmun era, some of the tombs are incredibly well preserved, particularly those around the village of A'Ali.

New Way Diving & Sea Tours

New Way Diving & Sea Tours

New Way Diving & Sea Tours is highly organised, with professional staff and trained assistants ensuring a smooth experience that feels almost like a five-star service. They offer a wide range of activities, including PADI courses, guided sea tours, diving instruction, and yacht or boat rentals. It’s also possible to complete your Open Water Diving certification with them. For those mindful of the environment, the company is involved in the Marine Protectors Team, an initiative dedicated to safeguarding the ocean.

Al Dar Island

Al Dar Island

Al Dar Island is often regarded as home to some of Bahrain’s finest beaches. By day it is quiet, calm, and family-friendly, while by night it transforms into a lively spot with DJ parties. Access is arranged through the reservation office, where you take a bus followed by a boat transfer to reach the island. Although small, it has its own restaurant and a shop selling food, drinks, and gifts. Note that bringing your own food is not permitted.

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