The narrow lanes, timber balconies and timeworn shopfronts of Manama Suq have long told the story of Bahrain’s trading past – and that story is now set to enter an exciting new chapter.
A high-level co-ordination meeting yesterday reviewed the latest progress on an ambitious plan to restore and revitalise the historic heart of the capital’s marketplace.
The revamp follows a royal directive to safeguard Bahrain’s architectural and cultural identity, alongside a comprehensive redevelopment plan ordered by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
The meeting brought together Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak, Housing and Urban Planning Minister Amna Al Romaihi, Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) president Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, and Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah, along with senior officials.
Discussions focused on the latest planning, infrastructure and heritage preservation components of the project, which aims to transform the historic market area into a vibrant cultural, commercial and tourism destination while safeguarding its original character.
Officials reviewed the phased implementation plan, covering infrastructure upgrades, services and essential facilities.
The project forms part of a wider national drive to preserve Bahrain’s heritage while revitalising traditional centres into dynamic spaces that serve residents, traders and visitors alike.
“The redevelopment of Manama Suq’s historic zone is one of the vital projects that will breathe new life into the area and reinforce its standing as a leading heritage and tourism destination,” said Mr Al Mubarak.
“The ministry is committed to supporting the project through upgrading municipal facilities, enhancing the urban environment and raising service standards in line with the leadership’s vision and sustainable development goals.”
He stressed the importance of continuous co-ordination with the Capital Trustees to ensure the project is implemented efficiently and in accordance with best practices.
Ms Al Romaihi highlighted that the project reflects Bahrain’s long-standing approach towards preserving historic cities and buildings that represent the kingdom’s civilisational image.
“The executive plan is based on preserving the authentic architectural and heritage character of the area, while thoughtfully integrating modern development elements,” she said.
“A key outcome will be stimulating commercial activity and enhancing visitor experience.”
She noted that works include restoration of heritage buildings, upgrading roads, improving walkways and markets, and creating attractive spaces for cultural and commercial events.
Shaikh Khalifa underlined the cultural significance of the site.
“The historic Manama Suq is among Bahrain’s most prominent heritage locations,” he said.
“Our priority is to ensure the preservation of its components and landmarks in a way that reflects Bahrain’s deep-rooted cultural identity and strengthens its presence on the regional cultural and tourism map.”
Mr Tarradah voiced the Capital Trustees Board’s full backing for the initiative.
“We also emphasise the importance of engaging the community and shop owners throughout the implementation stages to ensure the sustainability of the project,” he added.
The GDN reported last month that Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi said that the suq’s facelift was gathering pace, with works on key landmarks – including the covered arcade and the Bab Al Bahrain complex – scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of 2026.
Work began in April last year – the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) issued a tender for the development of the suq’s main entrance at Al Musaqqaf, the walkway leading to the Kanoo Museum, and the commercial complex at Bab Al Bahrain. The contractor was appointed in July and all approvals have been secured.
Ms Al Sairafi made the remarks while responding to a parliamentary question by MPs.
The minister said that the project is being treated as a national priority under an integrated government plan that brings together multiple authorities in partnership with the private sector to modernise the area.
Ms Al Sairafi explained that the project goes beyond the remit of the BTEA and involves the Baca and the Urban Planning and Development Authority, among other bodies.
The first phase of works on sites under the authority carries a budget of around BD680,000.
Bab Al Bahrain was constructed in 1949 and originally served as the main entrance to the suq and housed government offices such as police and port customs offices. It acted as a waterfront gateway between Manama’s docks and the suq.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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