Things to Do in Manama in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Manama
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temperature window - daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) ideal for walking Manama Souq and exploring Muharraq heritage sites without the exhausting summer heat
- Minimal rainfall with only 15 mm (0.6 inches) - outdoor activities like dhow trips and Formula 1 Circuit visits rarely get disrupted by weather
- Pre-summer season means clear skies for photography at Bahrain Fort and stunning sunset views from Bahrain World Trade Center observation deck
- Traditional pearl diving season demonstrations at Bahrain Pearling Trail are most authentic in March before tourist season peaks
Considerations
- Variable weather patterns mean you'll need layered clothing - mornings can be 18°C (64°F) while afternoons hit 25°C (77°F)
- Humidity at 70% combined with high UV index (8) creates deceptively strong sun exposure - many visitors underestimate sunscreen needs
- March marks the beginning of wedding season, so upscale restaurants and hotels in Diplomatic Area often have higher weekend rates and limited availability
Best Activities in March
Bahrain Fort Archaeological Explorations
March's mild temperatures make this UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for extended exploration. The 25°C (77°F) highs won't drain your energy climbing the fort walls, and clear skies provide excellent photography conditions. Local archaeological teams are most active in March before summer heat, offering occasional impromptu insights.
Traditional Dhow Sailing Adventures
March offers ideal sailing conditions with gentle winds and minimal rainfall. The Persian Gulf is calm, perfect for sunset dhow trips along Manama's coastline. Water temperature around 22°C (72°F) makes swimming stops comfortable. This is peak dhow season before summer heat makes afternoon trips unbearable.
Bahrain International Circuit Track Experiences
March weather is perfect for outdoor motorsport activities. The circuit offers driving experiences, track walks, and karting when temperatures won't cause overheating in racing gear. This is the sweet spot before Formula 1 season restrictions and summer heat make track access limited.
Muharraq Cultural District Walking Tours
March's comfortable walking weather makes exploring this UNESCO World Heritage area ideal. Traditional architecture tours, artisan workshops, and cultural centers are best experienced when you can comfortably walk the narrow alleys for 2-3 hours. Many cultural events happen in March's pleasant climate.
Traditional Souq and Spice Market Explorations
March's moderate temperatures make navigating covered and semi-covered traditional markets comfortable for extended browsing. The humidity enhances spice aromas without being overwhelming. This is prime time for textile shopping as new spring collections arrive from India and Iran.
Desert Safari and Camel Farm Visits
March offers the last comfortable window for desert activities before summer heat arrives. Sand temperatures are manageable for walking, and wildlife is more active in moderate weather. Traditional Bedouin experiences and camel interactions are most enjoyable when temperatures stay below 30°C (86°F).
March Events & Festivals
Bahrain International Music Festival
Annual classical and traditional music festival featuring regional and international artists. Performances at cultural centers and outdoor venues take advantage of March's pleasant evening temperatures. Mix of Arabic classical, contemporary, and fusion performances.
Spring Cultural Week
Government-sponsored cultural celebrations featuring traditional crafts, poetry, and culinary demonstrations. Events across Manama and Muharraq showcase Bahraini heritage. Perfect for experiencing local culture in comfortable weather.