THE move to introduce rooftop gardens across the kingdom is gaining momentum as part of the growing movement to make Bahraini greener and more environmentally friendly.
They could soon become a defining feature of Bahrain’s shopping malls under a new proposal designed to promote sustainability, enhance urban aesthetics and generate new business opportunities.
The initiative – presented by the Strategic Thinking Bloc led by its president and Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman Ahmed Al Salloom – seeks to make green rooftops a standard component of new commercial developments, starting with shopping centres.
“This initiative isn’t just about beautifying our cities,” said Mr Al Salloom in his associated memo with the proposal.
“It’s about transforming unused rooftop spaces into productive areas that serve both business and environmental goals. Malls can benefit by setting up cafés or leasing spaces for green enterprises – so there will be no lost lease space.”
The proposal, already forwarded to Bahrain’s three municipal councils and the Capital Trustees Board for review, has so far received unanimous approval from the Southern Municipal Council and the Capital Trustees Board.
Urban planners and environmental experts in the kingdom have praised the initiative as a meaningful move toward sustainable urban development.
Mr Al Salloom explained that the idea goes beyond environmental benefits, aligning with Bahrain’s long-term economic and social goals.
“This project fits perfectly within the framework of Bahrain’s Vision 2030,” he said. “It encourages sustainability, community participation and innovation in how we use our urban spaces. Rooftop gardens can create new opportunities for small businesses, cafés and eco-friendly ventures while providing greener, healthier environments for visitors.”
The concept of green rooftops is gaining momentum worldwide. Countries such as France, Switzerland, and Canada have passed laws mandating that new commercial and residential buildings include at least partially green rooftops.
Singapore has become internationally recognised for its lush rooftop gardens adorning skyscrapers, while Malaysia boasts Southeast Asia’s largest rooftop garden atop a mall in Selangor.
Mr Al Salloom, who is also the Asian Parliamentary Assembly vice-president, said Bahrain can benefit from following in their footsteps.
“We can take inspiration from successful global models while tailoring the concept to Bahrain’s climate and architectural style,” he added. “These gardens could become landmarks – places where people gather, relax, and even learn about sustainability.”
While the proposal has been well received, discussions continue on how it should be implemented. “With proper co-ordination and community involvement, this initiative can redefine how our cities look and feel,” Mr Al Salloom said. “It’s not just about plants on rooftops – it’s about building a culture of sustainability and pride in our urban spaces.
“If approved, the rooftop garden policy could mark a significant step in Bahrain’s journey toward greener, more sustainable cities – offering an innovative blend of commerce, community and environmental care.”
Meanwhile, Capital Trustees Board Chairman Saleh Tarradah, one of the plan’s key backers, suggested a phased approach to ensure smooth adoption.
“Implementation should not be compulsory on existing facilities,” he said. “It should begin with new developments, giving businesses the flexibility to adapt and learn from early examples before expanding the requirement more broadly.”
However, Southern Municipal Council Chairman Abdulla Abdullatif believes the measure should be more ambitious to create real impact.
“We should make rooftop gardens compulsory on all malls, both existing and new,” Mr Abdullatif said. “Existing facilities could be given a one-year deadline to comply. This will show our commitment to sustainability and encourage every business to be part of the transformation.”
He added that beyond their environmental value, rooftop gardens could enhance Bahrain’s tourism appeal. “Imagine visitors enjoying a meal or a view from a green rooftop instead of a concrete surface – that’s the kind of positive change we want to see,” he said.
Environmental advocates and municipal leaders agree that collaboration between government bodies, developers and the private sector will be essential for success.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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