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Suwad al Shamaliyya

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Weather…

Suwad al Shamaliyya is an uninhabited coral island situated within the Hawar archipelago, functioning as a critical ecological refuge in the Persian Gulf. It is internationally recognized for hosting one of the world's largest breeding colonies of the endangered Socotra cormorant. During the nesting season, tens of thousands of birds congregate on the island, making it a site of paramount importance for global ornithological research. The low-lying terrain and lack of terrestrial predators provide a safe environment for raising chicks. As a core component of the Hawar Islands protected area, human access is strictly controlled to preserve the delicate balance of the wildlife habitat. Beyond its fame for cormorants, the island supports various other migratory seabirds, while the surrounding shallow waters and extensive seagrass beds provide a vital grazing ground for rare dugongs and other marine species.

Location: Bahrain
Nearby: Hawar Islands (8 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	19	22	26	30	33	35	35	33	30	26	21
Rain mm	10	7	6	6	0	0	0	1	0	2	11	12

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The colonies of endangered Socotra cormorants are most impressive during the breeding season between October and April. During this time, thousands of birds can be observed simultaneously on the island.

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Best time of day

Early in the morning, the cormorants leave their colonies to forage, providing a spectacular sight. At dusk, they return in large flocks to their nesting sites.

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Etiquette

Maintain at least 100 meters distance from the breeding colonies to avoid stressing the birds. Entering the island is only allowed with a permit and on designated paths.

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What to bring

A spotting scope or binoculars with high magnification is handy for seeing the details of the birds from a safe distance. Sun protection and plenty of water are important due to the lack of shade on the island.

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Getting there

The island is only reachable by boat, which typically departs from the main island of Hawar. Pre-booking with a licensed operator is usually necessary.

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What to expect

The birds may be inactive during the heat of the day, so early morning or late afternoon hours are best. Be prepared for strong winds that can make observation difficult.

Geography

Coordinates

25.75330, 50.81170

Facts

Area 0.5 km²
Uninhabited
Carbonate sand
Seabird breeding site
Stingrays and moray eels
Accessible only by boat

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rubud al-Sharqiyah3 km · SExplore →

Jazirat al Hamra4 km · NWExplore →

Suwad al Janubiyya4 km · SWExplore →

Ajirah5 km · SExplore →

Suwad al-Shamaliyah5 km · WExplore →

Hawar Island6 km · SWExplore →

Rubud al Gharbiyya6 km · SExplore →

Hawar Islands8 km · SWExplore →

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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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Suwad al Shamaliyya?

An uninhabited island in the Hawar group, important for birds.

Can you visit the island?

Access is strictly controlled, mostly only for researchers.

Which birds breed here?

Mainly Socotra cormorants have massive colonies here.

What is the terrain like?

Flat, sandy, and covered with sparse desert vegetation.

Is snorkeling allowed nearby?

In the surrounding waters, this is only possible with a permit.

Suwad al Shamaliyya: where is it located?

Suwad al Shamaliyya is located in Bahrain.

Suwad al Shamaliyya: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.

Suwad al Shamaliyya: why is it worth visiting?

Suwad al Shamaliyya is an uninhabited coral island situated within the Hawar archipelago, functioning as a critical ecological refuge in the Persian Gulf.

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