Bahrain belongs to a desert climate, characterized by very little precipitation throughout the year, extremely high temperatures and humidity in summer, and mild and comfortable conditions in winter. Traditional Islamic events and night races, among others, have developed as seasonal events suited to the climate. Below, the climatic characteristics of each season, as well as the main events and cultures, are explained.
Spring (March to May)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: Around 25-35°C during the day, around 20°C at night
- Precipitation: Very little, but there may be a slight amount of rain in March
- Characteristics: Dry and mostly sunny, with humidity gradually rising
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Its Relation to Climate |
March |
F1 Bahrain Grand Prix |
A lively night race enjoyed during the cooler evening hours |
March |
Spring of Culture |
A traditional arts and music festival, outdoor performances are easy to enjoy under the dry night sky |
April-May |
Ramadan (Month of Fasting) |
Varies each year due to the lunar calendar. Fasting during the day is relatively manageable due to the refreshing climate |
May |
Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) |
A celebration at the end of Ramadan, with a tradition of gathering outdoors with family and friends on warm evenings |
Summer (June to August)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: Over 40°C during the day, around 30°C at night
- Precipitation: Almost none
- Characteristics: Hot and humid, with a high risk of heat illness even in coastal areas with sea breezes
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Its Relation to Climate |
June-July |
Whale Shark Watching Season |
They appear along the coast due to rising sea temperatures. Tours are held during the cool early morning and evening periods |
July |
Bahrain Summer Festival |
Indoor events centered around shopping malls, allowing families to enjoy while avoiding the heat |
July-August |
Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) |
Unlike fasting, the timing varies. Due to the extreme heat, prayers and celebrations are often held in the evening |
Autumn (September to November)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: September remains hot (around 35°C), but gradually falls below 30°C after October
- Precipitation: Continues to be very little
- Characteristics: Dry conditions persist, becoming somewhat easier to endure due to sea breezes
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Its Relation to Climate |
September |
Islamic New Year (Muharram) |
Religious gatherings and chanting take place on cooler evenings |
October |
Bahrain International Garden Show |
A flower and landscaping exhibition, outdoor booths are easy to visit in the mild climate |
November |
Bahrain Marathon |
Held during the cool morning and evening hours. Runners can compete in temperatures below 30°C |
Winter (December to February)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: 20-25°C during the day, 10-15°C at night
- Precipitation: Slight rain occurs from December to January
- Characteristics: Dry, sunny weather continues, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Its Relation to Climate |
December |
National Day (State Holiday) |
Fireworks and parades are held outdoors. The cool climate makes it easy for citizens to gather |
January |
Bahrain International Airshow |
An airshow featuring aircraft from various countries, outdoor venues are comfortable for enjoying displays |
February |
Bahrain Food Festival |
An outdoor food market, allowing enjoyment of local dishes and seafood in warm afternoons |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Their Relation to Climate
Season |
Climatic Characteristics |
Main Event Examples |
Spring |
Dry and sunny, 25-35°C during the day, around 20°C at night |
F1 Grand Prix, Spring of Culture, Eid al-Fitr |
Summer |
Hot and humid, over 40°C during the day |
Whale Shark Watching, Summer Festival, Eid al-Adha |
Autumn |
Still hot but gradually below 30°C, dry continues |
Islamic New Year, Garden Show, Marathon |
Winter |
Mild and dry, 20-25°C during the day, 10-15°C at night |
National Day, Airshow, Food Festival |
Additional Notes
- Many important events depend on the Islamic lunar calendar and change seasonally each year.
- To avoid the summer heat, many events are held at night or indoors.
- Outdoor performances and sports events are held to take advantage of the mild weather in winter and early spring.
Seasonal events in Bahrain are established as diverse cultural activities, considering the characteristics of the desert climate, such as night races, indoor festivals, and celebrations of Islamic events.