Tourism, Culture & Sports
Activities and facilities for sports and entertainment in The Kingdom of Bahrain
The Kingdom of Bahrain, a vibrant oasis in the Arabian Gulf, extends a warm welcome to citizens, residents, and visitors alike, offering various activities that cater to a wide array of interests. The Kingdom's rich cultural, sporting, and entertainment options ensures unique experiences for everyone.
Cultural Attractions
Bahrain's rich history is showcased in its numerous museums, art galleries, and traditional markets. The Bahrain National Museum stands out as a must-see for those keen to delve into the Kingdom's heritage and history. This cultural richness is complemented by traditional markets where one can experience the local life and customs. Pearl diving has been part of the Bahraini heritage for centuries. Tourists can explore this history and purchase unique pearls from the region. They can also explore the heritage sights and experience camping in Bahrain’s desert. The Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities (BACA) has made strides in digitizing the cultural tourism experience in Bahrain. The Virtual Exhibitions provide a virtual experience of multiple sights and events including Cultural Exhibitions, Destinations, and local Festivals through virtual reality technologies.
The BACA website provides information on a range of cultural and historical sites that you should not miss out on. The Bahrain Culture Mobile App is a guide to the various cultural events and activities across Bahrain including public events, exhibitions, workshops and performances taking place throughout the year is just one click away. In addition to information about Bahrain’s numerous tourist attractions, restaurants, hotels, and other places of interest.
Sports and Recreation
For sports enthusiasts, Bahrain is a playground of possibilities. The Kingdom's prime location in the Arabian Gulf makes it a hotspot for water sports such as jet skiing and scuba diving. On land, facilities abound for golf, tennis, soccer, and basketball, alongside paddle courts and well-equipped fitness centers. These diverse offerings make the Kingdom a destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Bahrain is also a home for motorsport in the Middle East. Bahrain is the first country in the region to host a Formula 1 race. Over the last 20 years, Bahrain International Circuit has delivered some of the iconic moments of the modern-day Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix.
The Kingdom is a home of professional Equestrian Sports. With its rich history in horse sport, the Equestrian Sport is one of the most popular activities in Bahrain and it is governed by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian & Endurance Federation.
Nightlife and Festivals
The Kingdom buzzes with a lively nightlife scene, featuring an array of cafes and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. The calendar is dotted with many festivals and attractions that amuse visitors of Bahrain and provide them with unforgettable moments.
Travel & Tourism
Welcoming Tourists
The Kingdom of Bahrain, with its multifaceted travel and tourism sector, attracts a significant number of tourists annually. Its commitment to providing world-class attractions and a flourishing hospitality sector has placed it on the map as a must-visit destination. Calendar.bh is a national platform that highlights all events and activities that tourists can enjoy during their time in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Diverse Experiences
Positioned in the heart of the Gulf, Bahrain offers a multicultural experience that allows visitors to engage in a variety of activities. The Kingdom boasts 3 UNESCO heritage sites, picturesque beaches, modern shopping malls, and a diverse range of dining options, ensuring that it caters to every preference, whether one seeks tranquility or the hustle of city life.
Entry Visa to Bahrain
In Bahrain, the regulations for visas and entry permits are managed by the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA), operating under the oversight of the Ministry of Interior. While travelers are generally required to present a valid passport, and in some cases a visa, nationals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) can enter Bahrain using their national ID cards.
NPRA’s digital transformation journey is marked by several significant achievements, including the launch of the Digital Residency Program, which streamlines residents' access to services.
In the realm of tourism, the implementation of the Electronic Visas has simplified entry processes, and boosted efficiency. The is another key accomplishment, designed to attract skilled professionals and investors with long-term residency options.
Additionally, the development of a comprehensive Smartphone Application for iOS and Android under the NPRA showcases its commitment to accessible, efficient, and user-friendly digital services, reflecting a strategic move towards mobile-first solutions.
NPRA’s virtual assistance service on their website provides direct support through the Chatbot to facilitate responsiveness for inquiries related to passports, residency, and visa inquiries.
The Kingdom of Bahrain presents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, encapsulating the essence of Middle Eastern hospitality. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in a realm of cultural richness, sporting excitement, and leisure, making every visit a memorable journey.
As we navigate through the digital age, Bahrain confirms its commitment to transparency and innovation through the Open Data initiative through Bahrain’s Open Data Portal. This platform is a testament to our dedication to making government data openly available, supporting the principles of accountability and enabling informed decision-making. By providing access to a treasure trove of data, we empower everyone to explore, analyze, and create solutions that drive social and economic progress. The initiative underscores our belief in the power of data to transform lives, foster a culture of knowledge-sharing, and stimulate growth.
We encourage you to leverage this valuable resource, sparking innovation and contributing to the Kingdom’s development. For an enriching journey into the world of Open Data, and to explore the possibilities, visit Bahrain’s Open Data Portal.
Together, let's embrace the opportunity to contribute to Bahrain's digital evolution and ensure that our journey towards national development is a shared endeavor.
As part of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s unwavering commitment to fostering digital participation, you are invited to explore the available participation topics. Your engagement and contributions are crucial in shaping the digital landscape of the Kingdom of Bahrain, reflecting our collective vision for a future built on the principles of innovation, inclusivity, and progress. Explore more on how you can actively participate in discussions, share your insights, and collaborate on initiatives that are at the heart of our nation's growth.
For a broader exploration of topics and to join the conversation, please visit eParticipation.
Content Last Updated: 30 Jul, 2024