A BOLD proposal to bring some of the world’s most iconic attractions to Bahrain has been put forward by the Muharraq Municipal Council, with strong backing from Parliament and national stakeholders.
The call aims to turn the Muharraq Governorate – home to Bahrain International Airport and the Unesco-listed Pearling Trail – into a leading cultural and tourism hub in the region.
The council has set its sights on world-renowned venues such as the Space & Time Cube, the Aquarium of Western Australia, the Natural History Museum, the Sky Garden and Madame Tussauds, among others.
The proposal, presented by council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar, was unanimously approved at a council meeting and has already drawn interest from parliamentary committees and government agencies.
Mr Al Naar
Mr Al Naar said the project was designed to reinforce Muharraq’s global standing while diversifying Bahrain’s tourism offerings.
“Muharraq is the gateway to the kingdom for millions of visitors who arrive through Bahrain International Airport,” he said.
“We want them to immediately feel that this governorate is a hub of innovation, heritage and entertainment. Hosting internationally recognised attractions will not only put Muharraq on the global tourism map, but also complement our own cultural landmarks, such as the Pearling Trail.”
He stressed that the initiative was not about copying other destinations, but about adapting world-class attractions to Bahraini culture and identity.
“We will showcase Bahrain’s traditions and history while presenting modern venues that can rival the best in the world,” he added.
Muharraq already holds a special place in the country’s history as the heart of Bahrain’s pearling industry. The Pearling Trail, recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2012, draws thousands of heritage tourists annually.
Mr Al Naar stressed that combining heritage with modern attractions would offer visitors a unique and balanced experience.
“When people come to Muharraq, they will see our history, taste our cuisine and experience our traditions – and at the same time, they can enjoy world-class entertainment and cultural venues,” he said.
“It is about blending the past with the future.”
Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee has already extended support for the plan.
Committee chairman and Strategic Thinking Bloc president MP Ahmed Al Salloom confirmed that discussions would soon be held with key ministries and agencies to assess feasibility and investment frameworks.
Mr Al Salloom
“We have already studied the proposal and found it to be a promising driver for economic diversification,” said Mr Al Salloom.
“Our next step will be engaging with the Industry and Commerce Ministry, the Tourism Ministry, the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, and the Economic Development Board, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company and Edamah to see how best this project can be implemented. We want to ensure private sector involvement and international partnerships to reduce the burden on public funds while maximising benefits.”
He emphasised that attracting global franchises and institutions could create a domino effect in stimulating hospitality, retail and infrastructure development in the area.
“The opportunities for Bahrainis will be tremendous – in tourism, services, management and creative industries,” he added.
The Muharraq Municipal Council, together with Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee, is preparing to host joint meetings with investors and international partners.
Mr Al Salloom said the committee would monitor progress closely and push for timely implementation.
“We cannot allow such visionary proposals to remain on paper,” he stressed.
“Bahrain needs bold initiatives, and this is one of them.”
The initiative has also been endorsed by the Strategic Thinking Bloc, with spokesman MP Khalid Bu Onk highlighting the project’s potential to generate jobs and boost tourism revenues.
Mr Bu Onk
“Every renowned attraction we bring to Muharraq will open hundreds of job opportunities for Bahrainis – from entry-level positions to specialised fields,” Mr Bu Onk said.
“Tourists who come for such experiences will stay longer, spend more, and explore other parts of the Kingdom as well. This is about creating a cycle of growth that directly benefits our people.”
He added that the project was in line with Bahrain’s long-term economic vision, which focuses on strengthening the non-oil sectors.
The proposal, now backed by multiple stakeholders, is expected to be a cornerstone discussion in upcoming parliamentary sessions, which are set to resume next month.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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