The spectacular, Hermann Tilke-designed circuit was built in 2004 specifically for the first ever Formula One Grand Prix on the small island state of Bahrain. The winner of the inaugural race was a certain Michael Schumacher. Dragster races are also held at the circuit, which can also incorporate an additional long straight.

The circuit is located in the middle of the desert. In order to avoid the problem of drifting sand, the natural run-off zones were replaced by sand-coloured asphalt, which causes less damage to the cars than the conventional gravel bed. A long straight and hairpin bend were added for the 2010 Grand Prix.