AN ambitious plan is underway to encourage the original residents of Manama to return to their ancestral neighbourhoods in an effort to revive the capital city’s historical character.
Capital Trustees Board vice-chairwoman Khulood Al Qattan is spearheading discussions over the initiative, acknowledging the challenges posed by the city’s current demographics, dominated by expatriates.
“Manama is the beating heart of Bahrain’s history and culture, but today, it feels like the original residents – the families who have shaped its identity – are missing,” said Ms Al Qattan.
“Our aim is to create an environment where those families feel compelled to return, reclaim their roots and once again call Manama their home,” she said.
While the idea of repopulating Manama with its original inhabitants has been met with enthusiasm, Ms Al Qattan admitted that there are significant hurdles to overcome.
“One of the most pressing challenges is the transformation of the city’s residential landscape over the years,” she said.
“However, we are optimistic that the right initiatives and projects could make the idea feasible.”
Central to the plan is the development of unique housing projects designed to meet the needs and aspirations of Manama’s original residents.
Ms Al Qattan pointed to an upcoming housing initiative in Muharraq as a potential model for the capital city.
She also highlighted the importance of developing adequate infrastructure to support the plan.
“We need car parks, spacious homes and other essential facilities that make living in Manama both convenient and appealing,” she said.
“There is a need to balance the preservation of Manama’s rich history with contemporary advancements.
“Initiatives such as Manama Retro reflect the capital’s old days. It’s a beautiful reminder of what Manama once was, and it shows us how we can blend the past with the present.”
Ms Al Qattan said the success of the initiative depended on collaboration between government agencies, private developers and community leaders whilst also incorporation inputs from the residents themselves.
“Manama is more than just a city, it’s a symbol of our history and our heritage,” she said.
“By encouraging families to return, we’re not just revitalising neighbourhoods, we’re breathing new life into the soul of our capital.”
Ms Al Qattan said the proposed plan is still in its early stages, but the vision is clear and that’s to transform Manama into a city that bridges its rich past with a promising future.
“Manama has always been a place of connection – a meeting point for cultures, generations and stories,” she said.
“It’s time to restore that legacy and create a city where history and progress go hand in hand.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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