The government has been urged to take proactive measures to preserve, protect and develop the kingdom’s shores and ensure their accessibility to members of the public.
A proposal in this regard, by MP Muneer Suroor, is set for debate and a vote during Parliament session on Tuesday.
It emphasises that these lands should remain under state control, with plans for sustainable development and investment to improve their aesthetic and functional appeal.
The proposal has been recommended for approval by Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee.
“Many of Bahrain’s coastlines require comprehensive development to serve as genuine recreational spaces for the public,” Mr Suroor said.
Mr Suroor
“The beaches and surrounding areas should be accessible to all, and we aim to prevent the sale of these lands and promote their responsible investment,” he added.
“Provision of infrastructure is vital, including rest areas, sanitation facilities and recreational amenities.”
According to data from the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, Bahrain currently has 34 public waterfronts and the proposal stresses the importance of maintaining these spaces and establishing additional harbours for local fishermen.
Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi responded, in writing, that efforts were already underway to improve the country’s coastlines.
She added that the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has launched multiple initiatives aimed at upgrading waterfront areas, including:
1. Bahrain Bay Beach (2021) – A vast 170,000sqm coastal development featuring a 600m beachfront.
2. Qalali project – A modern waterfront stretching across 100,000sqm, strategically located near Amwaj Islands.
3. Sa’ada project – A series of waterfront buildings offering stunning views of Manama’s skyline, showcasing Bahrain’s urban and architectural advancements.
4. Al Jazayer beach development – A collaboration with Edamah, Bahrain’s real estate investment company, to revamp the 1.2km-long Al Jazayer Beach with enhanced infrastructure, food services and public amenities.
Meanwhile, Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak expressed support for the proposal and highlighted several projects in the pipeline.
He said the Capital City Waterfront Project was currently in the tendering stage, with an official announcement expected upon completion.
“Busaiteen and Karzakan Beach Developments are in the final design phase and are expected to enter the tendering stage,” he added.
The Capital Trustees Board and Bahrain’s three municipal councils have largely endorsed the proposal.
However, Muharraq Municipal Council has proposed additional developments, including:
* Completing phase two of the Busaiteen Walkway and Beach project.
* Designating a 500-metre stretch in Arad for a public beach.
* Establishing a one-kilometre-long walking path and swimming area in Qalali and Samaheej.
* Creating a 300-metre public beach near Hala Club.
* Developing an 800-metre beach between Al Ghous Walkway and Shaikh Isa bin Salman Bridge.
* Increasing the number of public boat docks from four to accommodate growing demand.
The Northern Municipal Council stressed the proposal’s role in promoting sustainable tourism and economic growth, aligning with national environmental policies and Bahrain’s 2023-2026 Government Action Plan.
The Southern Municipal Council approved the proposal unanimously, citing past recommendations to ensure all beaches remain open to members of the public.
“Our coasts are among Bahrain’s most valuable natural assets,” Mr Suroor said.
“They belong to the people, and it is our duty to preserve them, enhance their accessibility, and develop them in a way that benefits both our citizens and our economy.
“This proposal is about ensuring that our shores remain public, pristine, and properly utilised for the betterment of all.”
Mr Suroor also stressed that coastal development should not come at the expense of public access.
“We must strike a balance between investment and preservation,” he said.
“The goal is not just to build, but to build wisely, creating spaces where families, tourists and businesses can thrive without compromising our environmental heritage.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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