Top-level talks will be taking place to identify potential operators and strategic partners for the much-anticipated new Sports City located in the Southern Governorate with some of the biggest names in football potentially playing a part in its future success.
Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma, representing the General Sports Authority (GSA), and Sustainable Development Minister Noor Al Khulaif, representing the Economic Development Board (EDB) will all be involved in negotiations, revealed council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif.
“We are studying several operating models to ensure that the Sports City is managed efficiently and can attract regional and international partnerships,” he said. “The goal is to build something that reflects Bahrain’s ambition and vision for the future.”
He added that talks could be held with globally-renowned football clubs to explore potential collaborations. Top outfits such as FC Ajax, the most successful club in the Netherlands, French Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United, the English club that boasts a massive global fanbase, are among the names being touted to play a role, Mr Abdullatif said.
“They could bring global expertise in coaching, youth development and facility management, which could help raise the standards of Bahraini sport,” he added.
Mr Abdullatif believes Bahrain’s geographic proximity to eastern Saudi Arabia positions the country as a natural partner for major sporting events in the region.
“With Saudi Arabia set to host the 2034 World Cup, Bahrain could play a supporting role by hosting training camps or friendly matches,” he noted.
“Our facilities would be ideal for teams that play in Al Khobar or having training camps in Al Ahsa.”
Mr Abdullatif said the council’s approval reflects confidence in the project’s potential to transform the area’s economy and image.
“This development will bring jobs, attract investment, and elevate Bahrain’s reputation as a hub for sport and education,” he said. “It’s an investment in our people and in the country’s future.
“Once completed, Bahrain’s Sports City is expected to stand as a flagship project – combining athletic excellence, education, and tourism in one integrated destination.”
According to Works Minister Ibrahim Al Hawaj, the designs for the project have been completed, with consultants now finalising tender requirements. He told MPs recently that the sports centre of excellence is on the drawing board, and that construction could be completed within 36 months once contractual agreements are signed.
Earlier, Mr Al Hawaj told councillors that infrastructure projects worth millions of dinars are already underway or ready to be implemented in the governorate. These include roads, sewage networks, street lighting, and water and electricity systems, all co-ordinated with relevant ministries to support the Sports City’s construction.
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