A striking new landmark could soon give travellers arriving through Bahrain International Airport their first glimpse of Muharraq’s rich identity, with a design competition launched for a ‘welcome monument’ at a key junction leading to the airport.
Muharraq Municipal Council financial, administrative and legislative committee chairman and Bahrain International Airport area councillor Abdulqader Al Sayed welcomed the initiative, describing it as an opportunity to turn an important gateway into a visual statement celebrating the governorate’s heritage and character.
“This is more than just a monument. It is an opportunity to create a landmark that welcomes visitors to Bahrain while telling them something about Muharraq – its history, identity and beauty,” Mr Al Sayed said.
Mr Al Sayed
The proposed monument is located within his electoral constituency, giving the project particular significance for the councillor.
Mr Al Sayed said the location, at a busy approach to Bahrain International Airport, made it an ideal place for a distinctive piece of public art that could leave a lasting impression on residents and visitors alike.
“Anyone arriving at the airport is entering Bahrain through one of its most important gateways. The first impression matters, and we want that impression to reflect the beauty, culture and heritage of Muharraq,” he said.
He urged engineering offices, architects, designers, engineers and students to take part in the competition and put forward bold ideas capable of combining contemporary creativity with the distinctive character of Muharraq.
“I encourage our national talents to participate and surprise us with designs that are innovative, elegant and meaningful. We want something that belongs to Muharraq, while also looking towards the future,” he added.
The initiative comes as major road improvements continue around the airport and across Muharraq, creating an opportunity to match infrastructure upgrades with a stronger visual identity.
The ongoing Bahrain International Airport Access Roads Development Project – Phase 3A is focused on improving traffic flow and access to the airport. It includes the rehabilitation of the Falcon intersection and sections of Arad Highway and Khalifa Al Kabeer Avenue, as well as a new free-flow left-turn flyover.
The project, which was 47 per cent complete in June, is expected to increase the intersection’s capacity from around 5,250 vehicles per hour to approximately 16,000 when completed. Landscaping and beautification works are also part of the project.
Mr Al Sayed said the combination of upgraded roads and an eye-catching landmark could transform the wider approach into a more welcoming gateway.
“The road development is already changing the face of the area and improving access. Adding a landmark with a strong Bahraini and Muharraqi identity would complete that picture and give the gateway its own character,” he said.
He also praised Muharraq Municipality director-general Khalid Al Qallaf and those involved in organising the competition for their pioneering idea – giving ‘a say to the people’.
“I thank everyone behind this initiative for giving designers and young talents the chance to contribute to the development of our city. I hope we see designs that are worthy of Muharraq and worthy of Bahrain,” Mr Al Sayed said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))