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Al Areen Wildlife Park
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Landmark
Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve was established in 1976 in the heart of the Sakhir region, covering an area of approximately 7 square kilometers. It is the only protected area of its kind in Bahrain, dedicated to the conservation of endangered species native to the Arabian Peninsula. The park is divided into two main sections: a public area for visitors and a strictly protected reserve for scientific research and breeding. Rare animals such as the Arabian Oryx, various species of gazelles, and the Syrian brown bear reside here in a natural desert environment. Additionally, the park is home to over 100 bird species and a variety of indigenous plants adapted to the extremely arid climate. Al Areen plays a vital role in international breeding programs to maintain biodiversity within the region. Visitors can tour the park via specialized buses to observe the flora and fauna in their protected habitats.
- Location: Bahrain
- Top sights: Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve · Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park
- Nearby: Zallaq (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 18 | 21 | 25 | 30 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 34 | 30 | 25 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Al Areen Wildlife Park is a nature reserve and zoo open to visitors. You can walk through the area or drive your own vehicle on a designated route.
Typical hours
The park typically opens from 9 am to 4 pm, in summer months often until 6 pm. On Fridays the park may close during lunchtime; best to call ahead.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park, but without flash near animals. For shots of the oryx antelopes, a telephoto lens is recommended to avoid disturbing them.
Time needed
A visit usually takes two to three hours if you explore the animal enclosures and the museum. With a safari tour, allow about half a day.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a trip to the nearby Al Areen Palace & Spa or the beaches of Salman City. The Bahrain International Circuit is also not far.
Getting there
The park is about 25 kilometres southwest of Manama, near the international airport. By car, follow Sheikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway and then the signs.
Insider tip
Bring water and snacks as there are limited dining options in the park. Visit early morning when the animals are most active.
Geography
Facts
- The park was opened in 1976 as Bahrain's first natural reserve.
- The total area of the park covers approximately 7 square kilometers.
- It is home to the Arabian Oryx, which was once nearly extinct in the wild.
- More than 100,000 plants from over 25 different species grow here.
- A specialized hospital for birds is located within the park grounds.
- Over 80 animal species live permanently in the various park sections.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Al Areen Wildlife Park (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What animals can be seen there?
You can see Arabian Oryx, gazelles, and many species of birds.
How do you get around the park?
Some parts are visited on foot, others via a provided shuttle bus.
Are there restaurants?
There are kiosks and simple snack bars available for visitors.
When does the park open?
Typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; opens later on Fridays.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The main paths and the buses are accessible for wheelchair users.
Al Areen Wildlife Park: where is it located?
Al Areen Wildlife Park is located in Bahrain.
Al Areen Wildlife Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve, Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park.
Al Areen Wildlife Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
Al Areen Wildlife Park: why is it worth visiting?
Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve was established in 1976 in the heart of the Sakhir region, covering an area of approximately 7 square kilometers.
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