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The Tree of Life: A Desert Miracle

Witness the miracle of Bahrain's Tree of Life, a 400-year-old enigma standing strong in the heart of the Arabian Desert.

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The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is a solitary mesquite tree standing tall in the Bahraini desert, approximately 40 kilometers from Manama. Thriving for over 400 years despite the harsh conditions and lack of apparent water source, it has become a symbol of resilience and mystery, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually.

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 afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food or beverage vendors on-site.
  • Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
  • Check the local weather forecast before your visit, as haze can sometimes obscure the views.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Jebel Dukhan or the Bahrain International Circuit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Manama, take the Zallaq Highway south and follow the signs for the Tree of Life, which will lead you onto the Al-Muaskar Highway. At the intersection with a Tree of Life sign, turn right, and then right again before the steep hill. Follow the signs; the final stretch is a well-maintained dirt road (Well 371). A 4x4 is not required, but stay on the path to avoid getting stuck in soft sand. There is ample free parking near the tree. The drive takes approximately 35-45 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Careem) are readily available in Manama. Request a ride to the Tree of Life; the journey takes approximately 35-40 minutes from Manama. Confirm the fare with the driver beforehand; expect to pay between 12-18 BHD for a one-way trip. The driver will drop you off at the designated parking area near the tree.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Tree of Life, you can take a bus from Manama to Isa Town terminal. From there, you will need to take a taxi to complete the journey. A bus ticket to Isa Town costs approximately 0.5 BHD. A taxi from Isa Town to the Tree of Life will cost approximately 8-12 BHD. This is a less convenient option but possible for budget travelers.

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Discover more about Tree of Life

In the heart of the Sakhir desert in Bahrain, stands a remarkable testament to life's tenacity: the Tree of Life. Known locally as Shajarat-al-Hayat, this 9.75-meter-high Prosopis cineraria tree has flourished for over 400 years in an otherwise barren landscape. Planted around 1582, the tree is a lone, green beacon in Bahrain's southern desert. What makes this tree so special is its mysterious survival. With no apparent source of fresh water nearby and minimal rainfall, the Tree of Life has baffled scientists and visitors alike. Some theories suggest its roots, which can extend up to 50 meters deep, tap into underground water sources. Others propose it extracts moisture from sand grains or is nourished by a distant underground stream. Adding to the mystique, local legends claim the tree stands in what was once the Garden of Eden, blessed by the Sumerian god Enki, and is sustained by mystical waters. Regardless of its water source, the Tree of Life has become a cherished symbol of Bahrain's natural heritage, representing endurance, strength, and the ability to thrive in adversity. It attracts approximately 65,000 visitors each year, who come to marvel at its beauty and contemplate its enigmatic existence. The site includes a sunken walkway with carved silhouettes of other famous trees and a visitor center offering shade and information. Visitors can explore the area, take photographs, and learn about the tree's history and the legends surrounding it. Nearby attractions include Jebel Dukhan, Bahrain's highest point, the Bahrain International Circuit, and the First Oil Well.

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