A proposal to set up Bahrain’s first dedicated interactive pearl and diving museum has won backing from MPs and municipal representatives, who say the kingdom’s most treasured heritage deserves far more than a single section inside a museum.
The concept, put forward by Northern Municipal Council member and Budaiya, Jasra and Hamala councillor Mohammed Al Dossary, aims to transform Bahrain’s pearling legacy into a living experience through education, training programmes, interactive exhibits and hands-on demonstrations that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the kingdom’s legendary pearl divers.
At present, Bahrain’s pearl-diving heritage is showcased within a dedicated section of the Bahrain National Museum, where visitors can view traditional diving equipment, models of sailing vessels and displays documenting the industry that once formed the backbone of the national economy.
However, Mr Al Dossary believes Bahrain is ready for something far more ambitious.
“Pearling is not just part of our history; it is part of our identity,” he said.
“Generations of Bahrainis lived from the sea. Their stories, sacrifices and achievements deserve a dedicated destination where visitors can experience this heritage rather than simply read about it.”
Under the proposal, the museum would feature simulated diving experiences, pearl-grading workshops, demonstrations of traditional tools and techniques, and specialised training programmes introducing younger generations to the history and craftsmanship of the industry.
It would also showcase the journey of a pearl from the seabed to luxury jewellery, while providing opportunities for visitors to learn about pearl shaping, ornament design and the skills behind one of Bahrain’s most famous exports.
Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman and Strategic Thinking Bloc president Ahmed Al Salloom described the idea as both a cultural and economic opportunity.
“Bahrain possesses a unique pearling history recognised around the world,” he said.
“A dedicated interactive museum would strengthen cultural tourism, preserve an important chapter of our national story and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and craftsmen involved in the jewellery and heritage sectors.”
Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman MP Khalid Bu Onk, whose family traces its roots to generations of pearl divers, said the project would honour the men who risked their lives beneath the waves long before the discovery of oil transformed the region.
“My grandfather and many members of my family were pearl divers,” he said.
“They spent months at sea searching for pearls that supported entire communities. This heritage deserves a permanent home where future generations can understand the courage, hardship and determination of those who built Bahrain’s reputation as the pearl capital of the Gulf.”
MP Hisham Al Awadhi said the proposal could bridge the gap between heritage preservation and modern tourism.
“Today’s visitors are looking for experiences, not just displays behind glass,” he said. “An interactive museum would allow people to touch, learn and participate. It would make our history accessible in a way that appeals to both Bahrainis and international tourists.”
The proposal also envisages partnerships with licensed diving companies, which already offer pearl-diving experiences in Bahrain, allowing visitors to complement their museum visit with real-life excursions into the waters that once yielded some of the world’s finest natural pearls.
Supporters believe the project could become a landmark attraction celebrating Bahrain’s maritime legacy while ensuring that the stories of its divers, sailors and pearl merchants continue to inspire future generations.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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