A major urban development initiative is set to transform the historic city of Muharraq with the planting of 100,000 trees and the creation of 72 new green spaces covering a total of 12,000 square metres.
The announcement was made yesterday by Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak as part of the government’s comprehensive plan to revitalise Muharraq while preserving its unique cultural and architectural identity.
The project follows the Royal Order of His Majesty King Hamad to safeguard Bahrain’s historical and cultural heritage and revive Isa Al Kabeer Palace, as well as the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to activate the executive plan for heritage preservation and launch Muharraq’s redevelopment programme.
Mr Al Mubarak said the initiative would strike a balance between modern services and traditional urban fabric.
“The ministry, in co-ordination with the relevant government authorities, is committed to continuing the organisation of Muharraq’s urban structure,” he said in a statement.
“Our goal is to create an integrated environment that respects the city’s distinctiveness and heritage character, while at the same time providing services that meet the aspirations of citizens.”
The minister explained that the development plan places equal emphasis on cultural, social, environmental and urban aspects.
“We are planning to plant 100,000 trees across old Muharraq, with a focus on species suited to the local environment,” he noted.
“Shade trees will enhance the city’s character and provide comfort to residents and visitors alike. In addition, 72 green courtyards with a combined area of 12,000sqm will contribute to environmental sustainability in the heart of the historic city.”
At the centre of the redevelopment plan is the revival of Isa Al Kabeer Palace, one of Bahrain’s most treasured historical landmarks.
Built in the early 19th century, the palace served as the residence of the ruling Al Khalifa Family and the seat of government.
It played a pivotal role in Bahrain’s political and cultural life, hosting royal ceremonies, state receptions and key decisions that shaped the nation’s modern history.
Its restoration is viewed as both a cultural duty and a national priority.
“Preserving the architectural heritage and creating visual harmony between traditional and modern buildings are fundamental pillars of this vision,” Mr Al Mubarak said.
“The Isa Al Kabeer Palace project is a cornerstone of Muharraq’s revival and will reconnect future generations with their history.”
Mr Al Mubarak stressed that sustainability and heritage conservation would remain at the core of all planning and execution stages.
“Bahrain is deeply committed to achieving sustainable development in urban planning, in line with the principles of the kingdom’s Economic Vision 2030,” he said.
“This development underscores Muharraq’s role as a prominent cultural and civilisational hub in the kingdom and the region. It embodies our aspirations to enshrine cultural identity, heritage and sustainable development as cornerstones of Bahrain’s growth and prosperity.
“The Muharraq redevelopment is part of a wider strategy to restore historic sites, enhance public spaces, and reinforce the city’s role as one of Bahrain’s most important cultural landmarks.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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