A visitor guide to Bahrain
Start your engines, we’re about to take you for a drive round the Bahrain international circuit. We’ll delve into what the race is all about, how to make your way there, places you can stay, as well as what else you can do in the area as part of your visit.
Want to find out more? Speed on ahead. But sure to not overtake - we wouldn’t want you to miss a thing.
What is the Bahrain International circuit?
The WEC hits the Bahrain circuit on 4th November 2023 where our very own Hertz Team Jota prepare to conquer the grid. It’s in the heart of the golden sand dunes of the Sakhir desert.
The WEC first visited here in 2012 , with Toyota Gazoo Racing driver Mike Conway making a name for himself on the track. This Brit set the fastest lap time here in 2020 with an impressive 1:43.169 for.
There are 15 turns that make up this circuit, combining fast straights and twisting turns alike to excite motorsport fans everywhere. A total of just over three miles of exhilarating racing offers a true racing marathon, as is the challenge in every World Endurance Championship race.
How to get to Bahrain
Below is a snapshot of how to get to the Bahrain racing track for the World Endurance Championship weekend.
By plane
There are no direct flights here from the US, you’ll need a transit flight via Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Etihad, and Emirates are popular choices. It takes approximately 16 hours of flying time from New York, it’s slight more for those flying from the west coast, such as California.
By train
You can get the A2 bus which links the airport with the racing action in Bahrain. It comes approximately every 20 minutes, taking just over two hours.
By car
Take the Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway to the WEC Bahrain, roughly a 45 minute drive. Jump in your Hertz rental and enjoy the Bahraini landscape for yourself, without relying on public transport. Your ride, your trip – you’re in control.
Where to stay in Bahrain
Now that you’ve decided to venture to the Bahrain international circuit, you’ll need a place to stay. Not sure where to look? No problem, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect for accommodation.
Hotels
You won’t find many budget hotels here, with many options a little more on the opulent side. If this suits your budget, we recommend the five-star Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, which is just 2.5 miles from the circuit. The pros for this option are that they provide a free shuttle service between the premises and the track. Also, they are conveniently close to the Bahrain circuit. Alternatively, try Al Areen Palace & Spa by Accor – just ten minutes’ drive away. On the downside, prices per night can be expensive. Expect to pay anywhere from $174 to $1000+ a night .
Holiday Rentals
The major upside to this option is that it might be slightly cheaper than hotels, with the apartments ranging from £50 to £200 a night. You’ll get a healthy range to choose one that’s just right for you, but on the downside some of these can be further from the track.
What to do at Bahrain
Now that we’ve covered the flights and accommodation – let’s look at what you can expect when you get there.
Bahrain international circuit
If you’re lucky enough to be in the main grandstand, it’s right by the first right turn corner. You’re up close to the action. Don’t worry about the heat, the stands have covers and there’s ample air conditioning here. Being just across the garages, expect to get a first-hand view of some pit-stop action.
The total grounds consist of Sakhir Tower, Race Control Tower, BIC Media Centre, as well as the track itself. There’s also a Welcome Centre that lets you buy souvenirs, grab a gift for a loved one back home. Tours of the premises are available at certain times of the year, so be sure to take the opportunity if it presents itself and get a closer view of the circuit.
The Bahrain area
Historically the Bahrain area is famous for its precious pearls. Throughout history people would flock from far and wide in pursuit of these natural treasures. The main towns and cities in the area are Manama, Riffa and Muharraq. Manama is in the north and is the largest city in the country – it’s known for its towering skyscrapers. Riffa is the home of the ruling royal family and the second-largest city. Muharraq is on the southwest tip of the island, with a bridge that links it to Manama.
In terms of tourist attractions, you’re spoilt for choice. You’ve got the magnificently designed Al-Fateh Mosque. Fancy a splash instead? Venture over to The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park - a perfect destination for families wanting a more action-packed holiday. If the quiet life is more your thing, the Bahrain National Museum is well worth a look – displaying ancient archaeology relics.
Why should I visit Bahrain?
The Bahrain circuit is the only desert setting for the WEC championship, giving motorsport here a unique edge that you can’t get anywhere else. Expect thrilling endurance racing across a full 8 hours on the track as teams battle it out for the spoils and on the day – and to stay in contention for the overall championship whether LM-GT class, LMP2 or Hypercar.
Being a small country, there’s scope for deeper exploration of the other main areas too. Getting around the entire island won’t take up too much of your time. You’ll enjoy the hospitality here too. The local culture is very welcoming to visitors, so expect a warm welcome.
Some of the other tracks in the WEC calendar are:
- Sebring – Hertz Team Jota achieved a podium first place finish here in 2023’s edition of the thousand miles of racing.
- Portimão – The sunny Algarve coast is the host of the six hours long Portuguese WEC offering.
- Spa-Francorchamps – A Belgian motoring delight that’s also home to the Belgian Grand Prix F1 Circuit.
- Le Mans – The absolute classic, the original. A 24-hour long motoring epic in the heart of the scenic French town.
- Monza – No motor event would be complete without a trip to the boot of Europe. Get your motoring fix Italian-style in six hours of summertime racing.
- Fuji – With Mount Fuji sitting as the backdrop of this track, this offering provides one of the longest racing straights in the world in the picturesque Japanese countryside.
