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Bahrain International Circuit
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Landmark
The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir is one of the world's most advanced motorsport facilities, having opened in 2004. Designed by the famous German architect Hermann Tilke, it was the first racetrack in the Middle East to host a round of the Formula One World Championship. The construction cost approximately 150 million USD and was completed in just 16 months. The circuit features six different configurations, with the Grand Prix layout measuring 5.412 kilometers in length. To keep desert sand off the track surface, a special adhesive spray is applied to the surrounding sand areas. Since 2014, the Formula One race has been held under floodlights as a night race, creating a spectacular visual atmosphere. Beyond Formula One, the BIC hosts endurance racing, drag races, and major concerts, establishing it as a central entertainment hub within Bahrain.
- Location: Bahrain
- Top sights: Festival City · Bahrain International Circuit
- Nearby: Zallaq (4 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
The Bahrain International Circuit is open for tours on non-race days; you can visit the pit lane, start-finish straight, and grandstands. During race events, access is ticketed only.
Typical hours
Tours typically run from 9 am to 5 pm, with exact times varying by season and event calendar. During the Grand Prix, extended hours are in place.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas, except certain hospitality suites. Professional equipment requires a permit; selfies are welcome.
Time needed
Allow about 2-3 hours for a comprehensive tour covering all accessible areas. The guided tour itself lasts about 1.5 hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a nearby Sakhir desert trip or the Lost Paradise water park. Both are about 10-15 minutes away by car.
Getting there
The circuit is in Sakhir, about 30 minutes drive from Manama. A taxi or rental car is recommended; during the Grand Prix, shuttle buses run from the city.
Insider tip
Book the 'Track Tour' in advance for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. Wear comfortable shoes as a lot of ground is covered on foot.
Geography
Facts
- The circuit opened on April 4, 2004, with the inaugural Grand Prix.
- The Grand Prix layout has a total length of 5.412 kilometers.
- The track consists of 15 turns and several long straightaways.
- Over 1,100 floodlight towers illuminate the entire facility at night.
- The project was completed in a record time of only 485 days.
- The spectator capacity of the main grandstands is about 45,000 seats.
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.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bahrain International Circuit (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the race track?
Yes, there are guided tours behind the scenes.
Is there karting available?
Yes, there is a world-class karting track right next door.
Where is the circuit located?
It is located in Sakhir, in the southern part of Bahrain.
Do I need to book tours in advance?
Yes, booking in advance via their website is recommended.
Is there a fan shop?
Yes, there is an official shop for souvenirs and F1 merchandise.
Bahrain International Circuit: where is it located?
Bahrain International Circuit is located in Bahrain.
Bahrain International Circuit: what is there to see?
Highlights include Festival City, Bahrain International Circuit.
Bahrain International Circuit: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
Bahrain International Circuit: why is it worth visiting?
The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir is one of the world's most advanced motorsport facilities, having opened in 2004.
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