F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 01 – Bahrain

A record-breaking 2024 Formula One® season bursts into life in Bahrain, with the first of 24 Grands Prix that will see teams and drivers battle it out on track at many of the world’s most spectacular circuits. The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team is aiming to build on its most successful campaign to date with Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso behind the wheel – fully focused on fighting for regular points, podiums and a first win in green. 

Nestled in the sands of Sakhir and celebrating 20 years of Grand Prix racing at the venue, the Bahrain International Circuit serves up a thrilling on-track spectacle under the lights. With one of the most abrasive track surfaces on the calendar, tyre degradation can be a deciding factor here, and the circuit is also famous for its tower at its centre, which is reserved for VIPs, the Royal family of Bahrain, and their guests. 

What makes Bahrain the ideal long weekender? 

Interestingly, before Dubai shot to prominence, Bahrain was the key Gulf city for business and leisure, and was the original hub of Gulf Air, predating Emirates et al. Its excellent accessibility is also coming on in leaps and bounds – with various new airport projects underway. Bahrain’s airport was upgraded recently with a USD 1 billion terminal. Now the country is planning to build an entirely brand new airport on reclaimed land to rival Doha’s hub. That will cost a cool USD 10 billion. Beyond its convenience as a gateway to the region, Bahrain offers much to explore in the way of amazing architecture, cultural heritage, vibrant markets, modern malls and stunning coastal scenery, beckoning visitors to linger a while longer and discover its charms. 

How to find joy in the journey? 

A drive in Bahrain you will never forget – Bahrain is of course an island and for centuries it was only accessible by ship. But that changed when the King Fahd Causeway opened in 1986, linking the Kingdom to Al Khobar and the Saudi mainland. Now the most dramatic way to arrive in the country is to fly into Dammam in Saudi, hire a supercar and cross the border over the Arabian Gulf. The bridge slithers above the water and passes a couple of upmarket islands on its way towards the capital Manama, with exclusive residences on each side. It’s a drive you won’t forget. 

What’s new in Bahrain? 

Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour – All eyes are on Bahrain’s sleek new Conrad property which opened its doors for booking on February 25, just in time for the Formula One® cognoscenti to arrive in town. The country’s first all-residential Conrad property could well be its most luxurious hotel – it’s certainly the best designed (by 2024’s hottest hotel designers LW Design) with a thoroughly modern palette of greys and gold accented by deep reds and turquoise in the sprawling suites that all have incredible views of the Arabian Gulf’s azure waters. The hotel is set in the heart of Manama, Bahrain Bay, and home to Bahrain’s first SUSHISAMBA, which will inevitably become Manama’s post-work hot spot as the venue has done in other cities like London. 

Where should I go next? 

Discover a secluded beach – Bahrain’s beaches are worth discovering and although this island is small, there are surprisingly secluded spots to be sought out where you can feel a world away from the hustle of modern Gulf life. Head southwest towards Ras Dubas where the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort has a prime position on the shoreline. It offers a sumptuous spa and tours across the water on a traditional Abra boat to help you relax, plus of course hundreds of metres of soft sand and refined dining. 

Discover more insider’s travel tips for Bahrain here.