Bahrain’s position in the Persian Gulf means that it is subject to high temperatures during the summer months and has a very arid climate. The country sees very little rainfall and high levels of humidity during the summer, although spring and autumn are milder seasons. Humidity can reach as high as 81%.

The position of the country also means that there is little variation in weather across the country and visitors to the country can expect a great deal of sunshine each day, with 10 or more hours of sunshine easily achieved. For those who are looking for life in the sunshine Bahrain is a good choice.

Summer temperatures can reach far higher than 40°C during the summer and similar temperatures can run from June to October each year, but colder temperatures are common during the cooler seasons. December to March can see temperatures as low as 10°C and rarely higher than 20°C. Homes require air conditioning during the summer to regulate the temperatures indoors and some heating is required during the winter. For visitors from other countries the winter may not seem so cold but when you have lived there for a while the difference in temperature is noticeable.

Rainfall can occur during the winter and averages around 2cm, while during the summer rain is non-existent. The average annual rainfall is just 72mm and tends to fall in short, heavy bursts. There are no permanent streams or rivers on the islands as the geography is a natural desert.

It is often recommended that visitors come to the country at cooler times of year as the high summer temperatures can be something of a shock to the system. During the spring and autumn months the cooler temperatures are often accompanied by gentle breezes which make the season very pleasant. Even in the cooler months there is little need for heavy clothing and it is during these cooler seasons that most people choose to take part in outdoor activities such as water sports.

The area is prone to sandstorms and the locals often sport veils to protect their face from the dust when they occur. The high temperatures can often lead to drought conditions but there has been an increase in the amount of water taken from the sea for desalination to counter this although there are many freshwater springs which provide much of the country’s drinking water.