Is the air quality good in Manama?
As of August 6, 2025, Manama, Bahrain, is the most polluted major city in the world, with PM2.5 levels classified as “unhealthy”. These hazardous conditions pose significant risks, particularly for sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
For a detailed look, see Manama's air quality map.
Manama, Bahrain ranked as the most polluted major city on August 6. Source: IQAir.
Why is there an air quality alert in Manama?
Air quality alerts are active in Manama due to dangerously high PM2.5 concentrations. Intense dust storms, industrial emissions, and vehicle exhausts have driven pollution to critical levels, exacerbated by summer heat and humidity.
Hourly air quality forecast for Manama, Bahrain on August 6. Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Manama on August 6. Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Manama?
Manama’s poor air quality stems from frequent dust storms, worsened by desertification, which carry fine particulate matter across the region. Industrial activities, including fertilizer manufacturing and fossil fuel combustion, release PM2.5, black carbon, and volatile organic compounds like benzene.
High vehicle usage and construction sites contribute silica dust and other pollutants, with summer temperatures above 40°C amplifying ground-level ozone formation.
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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.
