Overview

The Southern Governorate is the largest of Bahrain's five governorates. It occupies the southern portion of the country and incorporates territory that formerly belonged to several older municipalities. The governorate is notable for its low population density compared with other parts of Bahrain and for a mix of rural settlements, open land and offshore islands.

Geography and environment

Geographically the Southern Governorate includes parts of the main Bahrain island as well as outlying island groups. Much of its land is less urbanized than the compact northern city areas; this contributes to its role as a zone of natural habitat, limited agriculture and coastal wetlands. The Hawar Islands, located off the south-western coast, lie within the governorate and are known for their wildlife and bird populations. For locational reference the governorate sits roughly at coordinates 25.92000°N, 50.55000°E.

Administrative history

Modern governorates replaced older municipal divisions during an administrative reorganization in the early 2000s. The Southern Governorate was formed by bringing together parts of earlier municipalities such as Al Mintaqah al Gharbiyah and Ar Rifa' wa al Mintaqah al Janubiyah, in addition to jurisdiction over the Hawar Islands. It is one of the country's five principal administrative units; see the overview of Bahrain's governance structure at the governorates page and general information about Bahrain.

Population and economy

The Southern Governorate has the smallest population of the five governorates. Low population density and large tracts of undeveloped land contribute to a more limited local economy compared with Bahrain's urban centers. Economic activity tends to be concentrated in small towns and service centers that support local residents and visitors, with greater emphasis on conservation and low-intensity uses in several districts.

Notable features and distinctions

  • The Hawar Islands: a group of islands within the governorate known for birdlife and protected areas; their sovereignty was the subject of an international dispute that was resolved by legal process in the early 21st century.
  • Largest area, smallest population: the governorate covers the most land but has the fewest inhabitants among Bahrain's administrative divisions.
  • Conservation importance: sections of the governorate include habitats that receive attention for biodiversity and coastal protection.

The Southern Governorate provides an important balance to Bahrain's predominantly urban north, preserving open landscapes, island nature reserves and quieter communities while forming an integral part of the country's administrative map.