A decisive push to rejuvenate the iconic Old Muharraq Suq and improve accessibility for residents and tourists alike has been taken in a bid to tackle on-going problems over parking.
Muharraq Municipal Council has approved a series of urgent proposals aimed at easing traffic flow and congestion around the historic market.
Councillors unanimously supported an emergency move to lower the height of roadside curbs in the area and convert these spaces into much-needed parking bays.
They say the move comes amid ‘increasing frustration from residents and visitors’ over the lack of convenient parking near the suq.
“The Old Muharraq Suq is one of Bahrain’s oldest and most treasured marketplaces,” said council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazaa. “It’s a cultural and economic landmark that draws crowds from all over the kingdom and the region, especially during promotional period like Muharraq Nights and seasonal events.
“The parking issue has now become a trending concern – people are constantly talking about the issue.”
Mr Buhazaa said that while the suq’s popularity is a testament to its heritage and value, its outdated infrastructure must be updated to accommodate modern needs, without compromising its historical integrity.
Councillor Fadhel Al Oud, the authority’s technical committee chairman, stressed the importance of retaining the suq’s traditional charm while improving infrastructure.
“We must preserve the visual character of the area as the green roadside planters on both sides of the road are part of the suq’s appeal,” he said.
“Any parking expansion must be done thoughtfully. We must increase the number of parking spaces … but not at the cost of losing the area’s beauty.”
Councillor Mohammed Al Meghawi also weighed in, calling for a more nuanced understanding of aesthetics and functionality when it comes to revitalising the suq.
“There’s a misconception about what makes a place beautiful. We don’t need to plaster history over to make it interesting,” he said.
In parallel with the parking curb adjustments, the council last month also approved a proposal by chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar to introduce a dedicated shuttle bus service between the suq and car parks.
The initiative, designed to combat long walking distances – particularly challenging in Bahrain’s intense summer climate – has already received unanimous backing.
“We want to make the experience of shopping in the suq more welcoming,” he said.
“It’s not just about increasing foot traffic or sales. It’s about preserving a living, breathing part of our national identity.
“We urge all stakeholders – government and private sector alike – to treat this matter as a priority.
Mr Al Naar added that with both the emergency curb-lowering plan and the shuttle bus initiative receiving strong backing, the council is aiming to strike a balance between heritage conservation and modern convenience.
“If implemented successfully, the plans could transform the Old Muharraq Suq into not just a preserved relic of the past, but also a vibrant hub accessible and attractive to today’s shoppers,” he said.
“This will give Bahrain an edge as it continues to blend tradition with development. Muharraq’s renewed focus on its historic heart may serve as a model for urban planning across the kingdom.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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