Umm al Shajar

Umm al Shajar is a small island in the Bahraini archipelago, positioned just east of the historic city of Muharraq. Its name, literally meaning 'Mother of Trees,' harks back to an era when the island was significantly greener and more densely forested. Today, although the landscape is dominated by sparse desert vegetation and hardy coastal shrubs, the island maintains its status as an important ecological site. It serves as a vital nesting ground for various species of coastal birds, benefiting from the lack of permanent human residents and modern industrial noise. The shallow waters surrounding Umm al Shajar have been traditional fishing grounds for Bahraini locals for generations, linking the site to the country's maritime heritage. Because it remains largely undeveloped, the island provides a rare look at Bahrain’s pristine coastal environment. It stands as a quiet reminder of the region's natural history, providing a sanctuary for wildlife amidst the rapid urbanization of the neighboring islands.

History & landmarks

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Fasht al-Azm

Fasht al-Azm is an extensive sandbank located between Bahrain and Qatar.

Ras al Qulayah

Ras al Qulayah is a coastal point known for its strategic location and natural harbor conditions.

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Jazirat Mashtan

Jazirat Mashtan is a small island east of the main island.

Jaradah

Jaradah is a small sandbank that appears as an island at low tide.

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Ras Abu Jarjur

Ras Abu Jarjur is a cape on the east coast known for its desalination plant.

Ras Hayyan

Ras Hayyan is a cape on the eastern coast of Bahrain.

Al-Hajiyat

Al-Hajiyat is an area of low limestone hills in the Riffa basin.

Ras Al-Ghat

Ras Al-Ghat is a small coastal point in southern Bahrain.

Nature

Khor al Qulayah

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

Jabal al-Dukhan

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

Jabal ad-Dukhan

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

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Fasht al Dibal

Fasht al Dibal is a large coral reef and tidal island situated between Bahrain and Qatar.

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Hayr Shariyah

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

Umm Jalid

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

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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.

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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.

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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Wadi al-Rammam

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

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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.