In the quiet district of Janabiyah, not far from bustling Manama, lies a remarkable place where you can experience the living traditions of Arabia. The Royal Camel Farm is not just a zoo in the traditional sense, but a working farm that serves as home to about 500 camels belonging to the ruling family of Bahrain.
Royal Camel Farm. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI
The farm's grounds are an open space with simple shelters, allowing visitors to see the animals up close without high fences or cramped enclosures. Here, majestic racing camels live alongside charming calves. A walk near the nearby date grove creates the feeling of a true Middle Eastern oasis, far from the city noise.
For many tourists, this place becomes one of the most memorable stops on their itinerary thanks to its authenticity and lack of pushy commercialism. It is important to note that access status sometimes changes, so it is worth checking in advance whether the area is open for free entry or if it can only be viewed from the outside.
Contacts
To confirm current information about visiting possibilities and the site's status, we recommend contacting the administration in advance.
The main reason to visit is the close contact with the "ships of the desert." You can stroll freely between the paddocks, observing the daily lives of hundreds of animals. Visitors are often allowed to feed the camels or even pet them, which is especially popular with children. Be sure to ask the staff to show you the section with the young calves—it's the most heartwarming part of the visit.
The farm is a perfect spot for atmospheric photos. Set against hundreds of animals and date palms, you can capture truly exotic shots. Another unique experience is the chance to try fresh camel milk, famous for its health benefits and specific yet pleasant taste.
Although the camels here belong to the royal family and are elite representatives of their breed, riding them is prohibited. This place is intended for observation and contemplation. Thanks to the absence of strict movement restrictions, you can explore the grounds on your own and enjoy the tranquility of this unusual corner.
Getting There
The site is located in the Janabiyah district, not far from the famous causeway leading to Saudi Arabia. If you are traveling from Manama, the drive takes about 20-30 minutes. You should follow Highway 80, keeping an eye on the signs. A private car or taxi are the most convenient ways to get here, as public transport to this part of the island is infrequent.
For those who prefer comfort, hailing a taxi via mobile apps is a great solution—drivers know the location well. Free parking is available at the entrance. Plan your visit to arrive before sunset, as the area is not equipped with artificial lighting, and it will be difficult to see the animals after dark.
Ближайший город: Manama
History & Facts
The Royal Camel Farm is a unique site that highlights the deep connection between nomadic traditions and modern life in the Kingdom of Bahrain. While the farm is a relatively modern facility, it was established to preserve and promote camel breeding—one of the most important elements of the region's cultural heritage.
The farm houses animals belonging to the royal family. Special attention is given to racing camels, which participate in national races—a prestigious and spectacular sport of national significance. Every animal here is under meticulous care, and their pedigrees can span several generations of champions.
The Janabiyah district, where the farm is located, has been linked to agriculture and livestock since ancient times. For centuries, camels served as the primary means of transport and a lifeline for local residents. Today, this site serves as a living monument to history, allowing tourists to see just how highly these noble animals are valued in the Arab world to this day.
Time Needed
To take a leisurely stroll along the paddocks, interact with the animals, and take commemorative photos, you won't need much time. A visit typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. This is quite enough to soak in the atmosphere and see the most interesting members of the herd.
Since the main activities focus on viewing and feeding, there isn't much reason to stay longer than an hour. Travelers often combine a trip to the farm with other island attractions, using it as a vibrant and quick stop on their journey.
Working Hours
Currently, there is no officially fixed operating schedule, and some sources indicate temporary closure of the grounds to free entry. During periods when the farm is accessible, tourists are advised to visit during daylight hours, ideally before dusk.
Since there is no lighting on the farm at night, the best hours for a visit are the morning or the pre-sunset period, when the heat subsides and the soft light allows for beautiful photography. Before planning your trip, we strongly recommend checking the current operating status on official tourism resources.
Nearby
Exploring the surroundings of Janabiyah can significantly enrich your trip experience. There are many family-oriented leisure and entertainment locations near the camel farm that are convenient to visit as part of the same route.