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Umm al-Nassan
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Umm al-Nassan is the fourth largest island in Bahrain, located west of the main island in the Gulf of Bahrain. Its geography is defined by a prominent central plateau that rises above the surrounding coastal flats. The island is held as private property by the Bahraini monarchy, meaning it is not open to the general public, a status that has helped preserve its natural state and local wildlife. It serves as a sanctuary for native species, most notably a large population of gazelles. Architecturally, the island features private palaces and manicured gardens reserved for the royal family. Its strategic importance is highly visible via the King Fahd Causeway, the massive bridge system connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, which passes directly across the island, providing travelers with a rare view of its secluded shores and elevated terrain.
- Location: Bahrain
- Nearby: Budaiya (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 | 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
Umm al-Nassan is the fourth largest island of Bahrain and is viewed from the outside as it is largely not open to the public. The distinctive plateau is visible from afar, but entering the island requires special permission.
Typical hours
As the island is privately used, there are no regular opening hours for visitors. Viewing is only possible as part of organized boat trips, which typically take place during the day.
Photography
Distant photography is easily possible and features good shots of the plateau and coastline. During boat tours around the island, varied perspectives of the landscape open up.
Time needed
A boat tour around Umm al-Nassan typically lasts 30-60 minutes depending on the route. If you want to see the island from different angles, allow a bit more time.
Combine with
The island lies west of the main island and can be well combined with a visit to the Hawar islands or Bahrain's west coast. A stop at other nearby islands is also worthwhile.
Getting there
Umm al-Nassan is only accessible by boat, with most tours departing from the Bahrain coast. There are no public ferries; private charter boats are the most common option.
Insider tip
A tip: book a tour that also includes a detour to the Hawar islands to see multiple highlights of the region in one day. Ask for an experienced local captain.
Geography
Facts
- Length: 1.2 km
- Width: 0.6 km
- Area: 0.7 km²
- Highest elevation: 1 m
- Distance from mainland: 4 km
- Nesting bird population: approx. 500 pairs
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 Umm al-Nassan (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit Umm al-Nassan?
The island is private and closed to the public.
Where is the island located?
West of the main island, along the King Fahd Causeway.
Who owns the island?
It is the personal property of the royal family.
Are there wild animals there?
Yes, there are populations of gazelles and antelopes there.
Can you see the island from the bridge?
Yes, you pass right by it on the way to Saudi Arabia.
Umm al-Nassan: where is it located?
Umm al-Nassan is located in Bahrain.
Umm al-Nassan: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
Umm al-Nassan: why is it worth visiting?
Umm al-Nassan is the fourth largest island in Bahrain, located west of the main island in the Gulf of Bahrain.
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History & landmarks
Umm an Nasan
Umm an Nasan is the fourth largest island in Bahrain, serving as a private retreat with extensive gardens.
Jidda
Jidda Island is composed of striking limestone cliffs.
Jidda Island
Jidda is a small island west of Bahrain, known for its distinctive limestone cliffs and rocky shores.
Al-Markh
Al-Markh is a coastal plain in the west of the island.
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Al-Hamalah
Al-Hamalah is a fertile plain in the west of Bahrain.
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Ras al-Jazayir
This cape on the west coast is known for its long sandy beach.
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Umm Jidr
Umm Jidr is an elevated area known for its ancient burial mounds.
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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.
Khor al Qulayah
Khor al Qulayah is a protected marine inlet that serves as an important habitat for fish and crustaceans.
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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.
Umm Jalid
Umm Jalid is a small, uninhabited island in the Hawar archipelago, primarily used by nesting birds.
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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
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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.
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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Wadi al-Rammam
Wadi al-Rammam is a small desert valley near Jabal al-Dukhan.