The Ayn Huwais archaeological spring in Buri could soon be transformed into a lush green oasis.
Mps yesterday unanimously approved an urgent proposal to restore the historic landmark and develop it as a key tourist attraction.
The proposal by five legislators, led by Dr Muneer Suroor, was not originally listed on the session’s agenda and briefly sparked tension in the chamber.
Dr Suroor protested its exclusion and raised his objection, insisting that the matter carried significant national value.
“This is a heritage site tied to Bahrain’s historical memory,” he said during the session.
“It deserves priority, not postponement. Ayn Huwais is part of our identity, and we cannot allow another heritage landmark to disappear due to neglect.”
Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam intervened, calling for calm and assuring the MP that the proposal would be addressed promptly.
“Please calm down, doctor,” the Speaker said. “I will personally make sure this proposal is scheduled and approved today.”
The proposal calls for an immediate archaeological and historical study of the site before any development work, to safeguard what MPs describe as an important remnant of Bahrain’s past.
Local references suggest that Ayn Huwais may date back to the Dilmun civilisation, making it potentially more than 3,000 years old.
According to Dr Suroor, the spring once played a vital role in the daily life of Buri residents, serving as a source of water, agriculture and community gatherings. Its deterioration in recent years, he argued, represents ‘a loss not only of a natural resource, but also of a living cultural landmark’.
He added that revitalising Ayn Huwais aligns with the directives of the leadership to enhance domestic tourism, expand green public spaces and preserve national heritage.
“This project strengthens Bahraini authenticity and supports our efforts to revive cultural sites across the kingdom,” he said.
MPs alleged that more than a dozen heritage springs across Bahrain have dried up or disappeared due to neglect and urban development.
Restoring these sites, they argued, could create a nationwide heritage network, protect traditional water resources and provide natural havens for residents.
The proposal urges the government to restore the natural features of Ayn Huwais, develop its surrounding environment and open the site to visitors as an ecological and cultural attraction.
With the unanimous approval of Parliament, the initiative now moves to the Cabinet for study and potential implementation.
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