Al Areen Wildlife Park

Al Areen Wildlife Park is a large protected area in southern Bahrain divided into a public zoo section and a restricted conservation zone with water reservoirs. The facility spreads across 800 hectares and contains diverse habitats representing Gulf ecosystems.

The park was founded in 1976 as Bahrain's first and only designated land protected area. This establishment marked the beginning of organized environmental conservation in the country.

The park houses regional animal species such as Arabian oryx and Persian gazelles that represent the natural heritage of the Gulf region. These animals hold deep meaning for local people as symbols of the desert landscape that shaped Bahraini culture.

The best time to visit is during the cooler winter months when temperatures are more pleasant for walking around. You can drive from central Manama or take organized tour buses that provide access to the animal viewing areas.

The park operates a specialized breeding program focused on protecting endangered species found in the Gulf region. With over 100,000 planted trees, the grounds have become an unexpected green space in an otherwise dry landscape.