This April, thousands of motorsports enthusiasts will travel to the Middle East as the Formula One roadshow rolls into Bahrain. Situated between the Qatar peninsula and the north eastern coast of Saudi Arabia, this small island nation will play host to the third race of the 2017 championship.
Held annually since 2004, the Bahrain Grand Prix was the first Formula One race to take place in the Middle East. Bahrain International Circuit is located at Sakhir, 30km southwest of the island’s capital, Manama. The circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke, and offers six different track layouts within one complex.
The venue was created with spectators in mind. It features 50,000 grandstand seats, all providing outstanding views of the action. The circuit also houses a purpose-built media center, where up to 500 journalists can witness the race.
Bahrain International Circuit’s track configuration offers a unique experience for drivers. The cars head out to an external desert area as part of each lap, before returning into an oasis-styled infield. The width of the circuit varies considerably at the end of each straight, allowing for diverse racing lines. With a 15-corner configuration providing at least three excellent opportunities for overtaking, the track is conducive to an exciting and highly competitive race.
A Race under the Stars
For a fourth successive year, the Bahrain Grand Prix will be held as a night race. The circuit features a state-of-the-art floodlight system, which illuminates all areas of the track. Night racing makes for a thrilling spectacle, as the world’s top drivers battle for supremacy under the stars.
Away from the track, the Formula One Village vending area offers a range of entertainment for all ages. This includes children’s activities, a funfair, live music and energetic dance performances. A wide range of food and beverage stalls will also be available, with cuisines from around the world catering to all tastes.
Attendees have the opportunity to enjoy several unique VIP packages. As the Sakhir Circuit is located in the middle of the desert, this special environment calls for extra comfort. A range of air-conditioned suites are available, allowing fans to enjoy the race from pleasant and cool surroundings.
The Bahrain Grand Prix takes place on Sunday April 16, and is sure to be an unmissable event for Formula One fanatics. For all the latest details on the build up to the race, please visit the official F1 website.
Flying to Bahrain
Bahrain International Airport (IATA: BAH, ICAO: OBBI) is the country’s main airport, and the primary option for travelers attending the Bahrain Grand Prix. It serves as an Airport of Entry (AoE), with customs and immigration officers available on-site 24 hours a day. OBBI is located around 40km north of the race venue. It takes approximately 35 minutes to drive from the airport to the circuit.
Bahrain Landing Permits
Landing permits are required for both private non-revenue and charter (non-scheduled commercial) flights into Bahrain. The minimum lead time for obtaining a permit is three working days. Usually, a local business contact must be submitted with all landing permit requests. However, for those attending the Grand Prix, their hotel details will be deemed an acceptable alternative.
Prior Permission Required (PPR), Slots & Parking
Prior Permission Required (PPR) is mandatory at OBBI. Slot booking is not required. Aircraft parking is available, including long-term parking. No prior booking is necessary, all that is needed is a valid landing permit.
Bahrain International Airport is fully equipped for all ground handling services, and features comfortable VIP and crew lounges.
Arrange Your Trip with Jetex
Attending the Bahrain Grand Prix? Enjoy trip support services of the highest caliber with Jetex.
We are on standby 24/7 to process any request. Jetex licensed dispatchers will take care of all necessary permits and permissions, fuel uplift and ground handling arrangements.
Beyond the airport, our concierge team can offer you the best available rates at top five-star hotels, arrange ground transportation and organize exclusive fine dining experiences.
For further details, please contact us today on +971 4 212 4000 or email info@jetex.com.
