Bahrain’s largest showcase of animal, agricultural and food production – Mara’ee 2025 – was officially inaugurated last night during a special opening ceremony attended by His Majesty King Hamad.
The exhibition, held at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Zallaq, will open its gates to the public from today and will continue until Saturday.
Organised under the generous patronage of His Majesty, the show remains one of the region’s most prominent platforms dedicated to agricultural and livestock development, supporting national food security efforts in line with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
In his opening address, Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak expressed profound gratitude for the kingdom’s leadership.
“It is an honour, on behalf of the ministry and the organising committee of Mara’ee 2025, to extend to Your Majesty our deepest appreciation for your generous patronage year after year.”
He added that His Majesty’s guidance has transformed agriculture into ‘a national mission that strengthens food security, protects our environment and shapes our future’.
The minister also praised HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, noting that his directives were ‘a driving force in elevating Bahrain’s efforts to build a robust and sustainable food security system’.
He highlighted the success of the National Afforestation Plan, which has resulted in the planting of more than 600,000 trees, along with the expansion of mangrove cultivation across Bahrain.
Mr Al Mubarak confirmed that Mara’ee 2025 features more exhibitors than ever before, with strong local and international participation.
“This year’s exhibition includes a rich and integrated programme that caters to all age groups,” he said. “Visitors will encounter exhibitions of horses, camels, livestock and birds, and for the first time the largest rare rabbit collection alongside diverse agricultural displays.
“It will offer an integrated experience that connects agricultural production with local heritage, while highlighting Bahrain’s unique biodiversity.”
Dedicated arts and culture corners, as well as family-oriented entertainment sections, aim to make the event an engaging destination that blends education, tradition and enjoyment.
Also, for the first time, Mara’ee features a special pavilion dedicated entirely to mangrove trees, reflecting Bahrain’s pioneering efforts in climate resilience and environmental conservation.
“In line with the kingdom’s vision, this pavilion highlights the essential role of mangroves in combating climate change and preserving coastal ecosystems,” Mr Al Mubarak noted.
Mr Al Mubarak announced that Mara’ee 2025 coincides with Bahrain receiving a top accolade.
The kingdom has been honoured by the Arab League with the Arab Government Excellence Award for empowering communities through agricultural training – a recognition he described as ‘a testament to His Majesty’s belief in human capital as the cornerstone of development’.
He also highlighted notable projects launched during the past year:
1) Distribution of more than 1.12 million sqm of land to Bahraini farmers and livestock breeders through the Government Land Investment Platform
2) The establishment of Bahrain’s first National Plant Genetic Resources Bank
3) The launch of an International Date Palm Observatory in partnership with the International Dates Council in Saudi Arabia.
“These projects strengthen Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for agricultural innovation and investment,” he said.
Last year’s Mara’ee 2024 attracted thousands of visitors and more than 800 participants, leading to its extension from three to five days.
This year’s edition is expected to surpass those numbers, featuring rare Arabian horse breeds and advanced farming technologies.
Mr Al Mubarak invited citizens and residents to visit.
“We encourage everyone to explore the rich activities of Mara’ee 2025 and benefit from what it offers in agriculture, heritage, knowledge and family entertainment.”
He extended his appreciation to the Royal Guard, government ministries, agencies, volunteers and GCC partners whose collective efforts contributed to the success of the event.
“Your Majesty’s vision guides us and your wisdom inspires us,” he said. “With your leadership, Bahrain moves confidently toward a more prosperous and sustainable agricultural future.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))