A COMPREHENSIVE survey of all commercial and residential buildings across Manama – stretching from Ras Ruman to Naim – is set to be carried out to preserve and revitalise the capital’s historic core and strengthen Bahrain’s case for Unesco recognition.
The Capital Trustees Board has directed concerned ministries and government bodies to prepare a report assessing the structural stability, durability and safety of every building within the Old Manama Town.
Board chairman Saleh Tarradah said the survey represents a key milestone in Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to document, preserve and promote Manama’s urban legacy, following successful modernisation projects in Muharraq – home to the Unesco-listed Pearling Path.
“There are ambitious plans to preserve commercial buildings and residential properties in the old capital,” he said.
“But no one truly knows whether some of these structures can remain standing, are partially weakened, or face risks due to natural factors or technical faults.
“We want to understand the exact condition of every structure so that appropriate recommendations can be made.”
The survey will involve on-site inspections of every building using advanced technologies such as drones and thermal imaging to detect hidden flaws or weaknesses that may not be visible to the naked eye. The resulting reports will include photographic documentation, detailed assessments and recommendations for repairs or structural reinforcements where necessary.
Mr Tarradah emphasised that maintaining accurate, up-to-date safety records also enhance investor and public confidence in Bahrain’s historic districts.
The board is co-ordinating with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and other government bodies to evaluate the historic and cultural value of the capital’s oldest buildings and the materials used in their construction.
Old Manama Town has been on the Unesco tentative list since 2019 alongside the Hawar Islands and the Awali Oil Settlement.
Old Manama Town has long been recognised as one of the Gulf’s most significant trade hubs over the past 150 years, and is home to a number of cultural landmarks including Bab Al Bahrain, Al Fadhel Mosque Minaret, Al Mehzaa Mosque, Al Awadhi Mosque, Khalaf House and the Bahrain Post Museum.
Currently, Bahrain is home to three Unesco World Heritage Sites – Qal’at Al Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), the Pearling Path in Muharraq, and the Dilmun Burial Mounds.
Mr Tarradah noted that Manama is the natural next step in Bahrain’s cultural modernisation journey.
“After the major restoration and infrastructure improvements in Muharraq, attention has now turned to Manama,” he said.
“The capital’s historic quarters deserve the same level of care and this assessment will ensure that redevelopment does not come at the expense of heritage.”
Mr Tarradah reaffirmed commitment to safeguarding the architectural legacy of the capital through joint planning with culture, municipal and safety authorities. These efforts would bolster Bahrain’s international standing as a nation that blends historical preservation with forward-looking urban development.
The discussion took centre stage yesterday as the board marked World Cities Day, celebrated annually on October 31, during a special forum titled “Manama: Past and Future” held at Bahrain Fort. Speakers included researcher Dr Wafaa Al Ghatam and businessman Nabeel Ajoor, who discussed the evolution of Bahrain’s cities, their cultural roots and future growth potential.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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