Al Dana Amphitheatre is "ready to open its doors" with a "thrilling season" of shows lined up for the rest of 2021, according to the Bahrain News Agency. The new theatre destination, which has been designed to incorporate its natural desert surroundings, is located near the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, in the island's southern governorate, where the annual Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix takes place. Guests enter the 10,000-seat open-air theatre through the Plaza, where food, beverage and retail stands sit. There are a number of private spaces, including balconies and suites, both of which overlook the stage, and the Quarry Lounge, which will be available to hire for events. There's also a "green sanctuary" within the venue called the Desert Garden. The aim of the theatre is to work with touring artists and global event promoters, creating a state-of-the-art venue that attracts a wide range of local, regional and international audiences. “It’s an exciting time for entertainment in the Middle East and we are looking forward to opening our doors at exactly the right time to be able to cater to the increased demand and doing it safely, which is of primary importance," said Arif Rahimi, chairman of the Al Dana Amphitheatre. "Al Dana Amphitheatre is where imagination comes to life; a truly versatile venue with several different areas set up to host numerous types of events, and we are thrilled to welcome everyone to take part in our phenomenal experiences soon." A specific opening date and details of shows have yet to be confirmed. Entry to Bahrain is currently restricted to Bahraini citizens and residents, GCC citizens and passengers eligible to obtain a visa on arrival or an eVisa. Travellers who have not been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 will need to quarantine in Bahrain for 10 days. The kingdom is part of a vaccine travel corridor with the UAE. This allows vaccinated passengers to travel between the two countries without the need for quarantine in either destination. Citizens and residents of the UAE and other GCC countries who can provide proof that they have received the full course of a Covid-19 vaccine through approved apps do not need to quarantine, but must undergo Covid-19 testing procedures in Bahrain, including on-arrival tests and follow-up tests on days five and 10. Bahrain is now on green alert status, which means that vaccinated and non-vaccinated people can access shops, swimming pools, malls, gyms and restaurants. Other places such as cinemas, conferences, events and indoor sporting events remain open only to vaccinated and recovered citizens, residents and visitors who must present proof of vaccination or recovery from the virus. Children under 12 are exempt from these rules.
