Southern Governorate

The Southern Governorate is the largest of Bahrain's four governorates, covering the southern part of the main island and the remote Hawar Islands. It combines open desert, coastal villages, modern leisure destinations and some of the kingdom's most important sporting and events venues, giving it a calmer and more spread-out character than central Manama.

The area's history is anchored by Riffa Fort, a restored hilltop fortress overlooking the Hunayniyah Valley, and by older towns such as Riffa and Isa Town. The Tree of Life, a lone mesquite tree standing in the desert near Jebel Dukhan, is one of Bahrain's most photographed natural landmarks. Isa Town retains a traditional souk and hosts the University of Bahrain campus.

Around Zallaq and Sakhir, the governorate concentrates much of Bahrain's large-scale leisure and sporting infrastructure. The Bahrain International Circuit stages the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, while Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve protects Arabian wildlife. Nearby attractions include the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park, Al Dana Amphitheatre, the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club and the coastal beaches south of Zallaq.

Coastal and island destinations such as Durrat Al Bahrain and the Hawar Islands add beaches, resorts and wildlife viewing. Exhibition World Bahrain and business links to the energy sector around Awali also make the governorate relevant beyond tourism, connecting it to conferences, trade events and corporate travel.

For visitors, the Southern Governorate offers a different side of Bahrain: desert landmarks, motorsport, wildlife and beach resorts within easy reach of Manama, supported by hotel, restaurant and transport options that suit both leisure stays and business trips.