Is the air quality good in Manama?
On August 26, 2025, at 11:30 PM PT, Manama, Bahrain is experiencing extremely poor air quality due to intense dust storms and urban emissions. The AQI is classified as "unhealthy" with PM2.5 concentrations dominating the pollution.
These conditions can cause severe respiratory issues, worsen heart problems, and impair lung function, especially for children, the elderly, and those with health vulnerabilities.
Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. To stay safe during this temporary spike, limit outdoor time, seal windows, wear masks if venturing out, and use air purifiers indoors for cleaner breathing air.
Click here for a real-time air quality map of Manama.
Manama ranked as the most polluted major city in the world on Tuesday night (PT). While the air quality conditions on August 27 are unusually poor, it is important to keep in mind that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2024 for Manama was 31.8 µg/m³. This corresponds to an AQI of 93, which falls into the “moderate” category and was 6.36 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.
Manama, Bahrain ranked as the most polluted major city on Aug 26, 2025, 11:30 PM PT. Source: IQAir.
When will the air quality improve in Manama?
Air quality in Manama is expected to remain poor throughout the day, though localized improvements may occur later depending on wind conditions. While short-term relief could come with shifts in weather patterns, significant and sustained improvement will require long-term emission reduction efforts.
Forecasts suggest AQI levels could temporarily drop below 150 (unhealthy for sensitive groups), though fluctuations are likely due to dust events.
Hourly air quality forecast for Manama, Bahrain on Aug 26, 2025, 11:30 PM PT. Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Manama, Bahrain on Aug 26, 2025, 11:30 PM PT. Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Manama?
Manama’s critically poor air stems from a blend of natural and human-induced factors. Frequent dust storms and regional desertification contribute massive amounts of fine particulate matter.
Industrial emissions, particularly from fertilizer production and fossil fuel use, introduce PM2.5, black carbon, and volatile organic compounds into the air.
Heavy vehicle traffic and urban construction release additional pollutants such as silica dust and exhaust fumes.
Furthermore, high summer temperatures exceeding 40°C accelerate the formation of ground-level ozone, worsening overall air quality.
How can I protect myself from poor air quality?
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.
