The Muharraq Municipal Council has renewed its call for the Muharraq-Arad bridge, describing it as a ‘vital and overdue infrastructure project’ that would significantly reduce traffic congestion and enhance connectivity across the governorate.
Council members said the project would create a direct link between Muharraq and Arad – two densely populated areas currently connected only by routes that have become increasingly congested during peak hours.
They emphasised that while the project has been under discussion for years, it has never progressed beyond the conceptual stage.
Council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazaa stressed the urgent need for the bridge to address the governorate’s growing traffic demands.
“The time for discussions is over, Muharraq-Arad bridge has become a necessity,” said Mr Buhazaa.
“Traffic on Muharraq roads continues to intensify, and the community deserves practical solutions, not further delays.”
Mr Buhazaa revealed that the project is estimated to cost BD12 million, stressing that the financial requirements should be weighed against the significant benefits it would deliver for residents, motorists, and tourists travelling between key parts of the island.
“This bridge would offer direct, meaningful service to citizens and residents,” he added.
“It would ease daily traffic pressure, improve access to Bahrain International Airport, and support tourism flows. Preparing comprehensive engineering designs and technical concepts is now essential so we can present a mature proposal to the relevant authorities.”
The vice-chairman also revealed that the council expects updated technical plans to be fast-tracked, including detailed drawings that can be reviewed in co-ordination with the Works Ministry.
Meanwhile, council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar voiced full support for the project, calling it ‘strategic, practical and aligned with national infrastructure priorities’.
“Muharraq is one of Bahrain’s most dynamic governorates and our infrastructure must match the needs of its people,” Mr Al Naar said. “The Muharraq-Arad bridge will not only reduce congestion but also improve mobility across the entire area.”
Mr Al Naar stressed that the council has consistently advocated for improved connectivity within the governorate and believes the bridge would complement ongoing road upgrades and development plans.
“Residents have been hearing about this proposal for years, and it is our duty to push for real progress,” he said. “With proper designs, budgeting and co-ordination, this can finally become a reality.”
Councillors added that rapid urban expansion in Muharraq and Arad has created new patterns of movement, intensifying the need for a direct link to ease pressure on existing routes such as the Muharraq Ring Road and Arad Highway.
Members also noted that the bridge could open new economic opportunities, supporting waterfront developments and improving access to commercial areas on both sides.
The proposal is expected to be submitted with updated studies and engineering concepts in the coming months, after which discussions with the relevant authorities will determine funding mechanisms and execution timelines.
For now, council members say the priority is clear: complete the designs, approve the budget, and move ahead.
“We owe it to the community to deliver tangible progress,” Mr Al Naar reaffirmed. “This bridge can reshape mobility in Muharraq – now we need to act.”
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