A new call has gone out to reopen and revitalise one of Bahrain’s most cherished natural landmarks, Ain Adhari, which has remained closed to the public since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020.
The historic spring, long regarded as a watery paradise for Bahraini families, holds a deep cultural and historical significance as one of the kingdom’s most famous natural springs.
Generations of Bahrainis fondly remember gathering at Ain Adhari to enjoy its cool waters, shaded spaces and a sense of community.
The site underwent a major transformation in 2006, when it was modernised into a swimming pool and recreation area.
However, ongoing structural issues, including cracks and water seepage, forced intermittent closures over the years, leading to its eventual full shutdown.
Efforts to relaunch the project have faced setbacks, with previous bids to attract investors through the Tender Board receiving limited interest.
Now, however, municipal officials are confident that expanding the project’s scope to include year-round attractions could finally make it appealing to potential partners.
“The idea is to present Ain Adhari not just as a swimming pool, but as a full-fledged recreational destination, one that has both cultural and business value,” said Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah in an interview with the GDN.
“The board has prioritised the development of Ain Adhari because of its special place in the hearts of Bahrainis. It represents an important part of our national identity and heritage, while also offering a valuable leisure option for families and young people,” he added.
Mr Tarradah revealed that discussions were underway with various authorities to find the right formula for success.
“We are seeking the necessary approvals from the concerned bodies to finalise a viable plan,” he explained.
“The goal is to give the private sector the opportunity to handle, develop, and operate the project. But we recognise that the costs involved – and the technical challenges – may make some people hesitant.”
Despite the hurdles, Mr Tarradah remains optimistic, citing high-level support for seeing Ain Adhari restored to its former status as a landmark tourist attraction.
“There is genuine encouragement from the leadership to make this happen. Of course, resolving administrative, financial and technical issues will take time, but I’m confident we will reach a workable solution,” he said.
One of the major challenges facing redevelopment is the spring’s strong water flow, which continues to undermine the integrity of the pool’s structure.
“It’s a complicated issue, but not impossible to fix,” Mr Tarradah stressed.
Mr Tarradah
“Whether through private investment preferably, municipal management or a public-private partnership, we must push forward and get Ain Adhari reopened for the people.”
Supporting the calls for redevelopment, Parliament’s legislative and legal affairs committee chairman and area Mahmood Fardan stressed that the project had huge potential, if approached with imagination and foresight.
“Ain Adhari could easily reclaim its position as one of the leading family attractions in the region,” he said.
“But people today expect more than just a pool. They want a whole experience – fun water activities, decent facilities, cafés, safe surroundings and somewhere to spend the whole day with their families.”
Mr Fardan revealed that he had submitted multiple proposals to the Capital Trustees Board on ways to modernise the site’s offerings, including ideas to create year-round attractions that could operate even when the weather is not ideal for swimming.
“One of the key ideas is to establish small businesses and traditional markets around the area. These will give families a reason to visit no matter the season,” he added.
“Of course, we will also closely monitor pricing to ensure that entry remains affordable and that the pool reaches its full visitor capacity, especially during weekends and school holidays.”
The last official capacity set for Ain Adhari was 200 visitors at a time, though officials believe that an expanded and modernised site could comfortably handle far more.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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