Background

The Tree of Life: Bahrain's Desert Sentinel

Witness the miracle of Bahrain's Tree of Life, a 400-year-old enigma standing strong in the heart of the desert. A symbol of resilience and wonder.

4.2

The Tree of Life, or Shajarat-al-Hayat, is a 9.75-meter-high mesquite tree standing alone in Bahrain's Sakhir Desert. Over 400 years old, it thrives despite the harsh conditions and lack of apparent water, drawing nearly 65,000 visitors annually. It's a symbol of resilience and mystery, with legends attributing its survival to hidden water sources or even divine intervention.

A brief summary to Tree of Life

  • Dirt Road to Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan, BH
  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the desert heat and capture the best light for photography.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as there is limited shade and the desert sun can be intense.
  • Take time to explore the visitor center for information about the tree's history, the surrounding desert, and archaeological discoveries.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Manama, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available. A one-way trip to the Tree of Life typically costs between 11-15 BHD and takes around 30-40 minutes. It's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running. Arrange for a return trip in advance, as finding a taxi at the Tree of Life can be challenging.

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach the Tree of Life is by car. From Manama, take the highway south towards the Sakhir area. Follow signs for the Bahrain International Circuit and then for the Tree of Life. The drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes. There is a designated parking area near the site. Be aware that the road leading to the tree passes through an industrial area. GPS navigation is recommended.

Unlock the Best of Tree of Life

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Tree of Life

Bahrain's Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is a natural wonder that has stood for over 400 years in the heart of the Arabian Desert. This solitary Prosopis cineraria tree, also known as Ghaf in Arabic, is approximately 9.75 meters (32 feet) tall and located on a hill about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from Jebel Dukhan, the highest point in Bahrain. The tree's ability to thrive in such a barren environment, with no obvious source of fresh water, has made it a popular tourist attraction, drawing around 65,000 visitors each year. Planted around 1583, the tree's existence has sparked numerous theories and legends. Some believe its roots reach deep underground, tapping into hidden water reserves, while others suggest it extracts moisture from sand grains or absorbs it from the air. Mystical explanations claim it stands in the biblical Garden of Eden or is protected by Enki, the ancient Sumerian god of water. In October 2010, archaeologists discovered 500-year-old pottery and other artifacts near the tree, hinting at a possible historical settlement. The yellow resin from the tree is used to make candles, aromatics, and gum, and its beans are processed into meal, jam, and even wine. Today, the Tree of Life is more than just a natural curiosity; it's a symbol of endurance and the resilience of life. The Bahrain government has made efforts to preserve the tree, including building an informative visitor center with shade and facts about the site. The site sometimes hosts cultural events, and a sunken walkway with silhouettes of other famous trees surrounds the Tree of Life.

Popular Experiences near Tree of Life

Popular Hotels near Tree of Life

Select Currency