Jidda Island

Jidda Island is a small, rocky islet located to the west of Bahrain's main island, distinguished by its dramatic limestone cliffs and rugged terrain. Composed almost entirely of solid limestone, the island was historically a source of building stone for early settlements in the region. For much of the 20th century, Jidda gained notoriety as the site of a high-security state prison that housed political detainees until its closure in the mid-1970s. Following this period, the island was converted into a private retreat for the Bahraini royal family, featuring exclusive villas, landscaped gardens, and a helipad. Today, it remains a restricted area, preserving an air of seclusion and mystery. The surrounding waters are characterized by unusually deep maritime channels, which provide a rich habitat for diverse marine life compared to the shallower sandy banks of the Persian Gulf. The stark white cliffs of Jidda serve as a prominent landmark for sailors and a nesting ground for local seabirds, highlighting its unique geological and historical identity within the archipelago.

History & landmarks

Jidda

Jidda Island is composed of striking limestone cliffs.

Umm al-Nassan

Umm al-Nassan is the fourth largest island in Bahrain and possesses a distinct plateau.

Umm an Nasan

Umm an Nasan is the fourth largest island in Bahrain, serving as a private retreat with extensive gardens.

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Al-Hamalah

Al-Hamalah is a fertile plain in the west of Bahrain.

Al-Markh

Al-Markh is a coastal plain in the west of the island.

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Umm Jidr

Umm Jidr is an elevated area known for its ancient burial mounds.

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Ras al-Jazayir

This cape on the west coast is known for its long sandy beach.

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Al Jazaer Beach

Al Jazaer is the largest public beach in Bahrain, known for its pristine natural coastline in the west.

Nature

Jabal ad-Dukhan

Jabal ad-Dukhan is the highest point in Bahrain, standing at 134 meters above sea level in the desert.

Jabal al-Dukhan

Jabal al-Dukhan is the highest point in Bahrain at 134 meters elevation.

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Fasht al Jarim

Fasht al Jarim is a massive coral reef north of the main island, partially exposed during low tide.

Khor al Qulayah

Khor al Qulayah is a protected marine inlet that serves as an important habitat for fish and crustaceans.

Umm Jalid

Umm Jalid is a small, uninhabited island in the Hawar archipelago, primarily used by nesting birds.

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Hayr Shariyah

Hayr Shariyah is a traditional pearl oyster bed, part of the UNESCO-listed pearling path in the sea.

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Rubud al Gharbiyya

This western island of the Rubud group is a vital habitat for wading birds and other marine life.

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Rubud al Sharqiyya

Rubud al Sharqiyya island belongs to the Hawar group and is a significant sanctuary for ospreys.

More places

Wadi al Buhair

Wadi al Buhair is one of the few valleys in Bahrain, known for its unique rock formations and topography.

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Al Hazm Plateau

Al Hazm Plateau is an elevated desert area near Jabal ad-Dukhan, offering expansive views of the interior.

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Wadi al-Rammam

Wadi al-Rammam is a small desert valley near Jabal al-Dukhan.