A renewed effort is underway to reopen and revitalise Ain Adhari, one of Bahrain’s most cherished natural landmarks, which has remained closed to the public since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020.
For generations, Ain Adhari was a watery paradise for Bahraini families – a place synonymous with cool natural springs, shaded gathering spots and simple communal joy.
Its cultural and historical value runs deep, marking it as one of the kingdom’s most famous natural springs and an enduring symbol of local heritage.
The site last underwent a major transformation in 2006, when it was redeveloped into a modern swimming pool and recreation area. However, persistent structural problems, including cracks, water seepage and damage to tiles, resulted in repeated closures before it was eventually shut down completely in 2020.
Previous attempts to relaunch the project faltered, with limited investor interest despite bids floated through the Tender Board.
Adhari in the old days
Now, municipal officials believe the key to success lies in reimagining Ain Adhari not merely as a pool, but as a comprehensive, year-round destination supported by expert assessments and private sector involvement.
“The idea is to present Ain Adhari not just as a swimming pool, but as a full-fledged recreational destination, one that has both cultural and business value,” said Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah.
“The board has prioritised the development of Ain Adhari because of its special place in the hearts of Bahrainis. It represents an important part of our national identity and heritage, while also offering a valuable leisure option for families and young people.”
Mr Tarradah confirmed that discussions were ongoing with multiple authorities to chart a viable path forward.
“We are seeking the necessary approvals from the concerned bodies to finalise a workable plan,” he explained.
“The goal is to give the private sector the opportunity to handle, develop and operate the project. But we recognise that the costs involved, and the technical challenges, may make some people hesitant.”
Despite these hurdles, he stressed there was strong backing at senior levels to see the iconic site restored.
“There is genuine encouragement from the leadership to make this happen. Resolving administrative, financial and technical issues will take time, but I’m confident we will reach a solution that works,” he said.
One of the most complex challenges is the spring itself. Its natural water flow continues to undermine the structure of the pool, raising questions about safety and long-term sustainability.
Capital Trustees Authority director-general Mohammed Al Sehli said a specialised consultant would be appointed to carry out a detailed analysis.
“We also need feedback from the Health Ministry on whether the water coming out is actually safe and not harmful to the skin or the human body,” he said.
Mr Al Sehli added that water supply posed another challenge as the natural underground water supply isn’t strong enough to fill the pool.
“We need mechanical intervention to pump water, and that requires support from the Electricity and Water Affairs Ministry,” Mr Al Sehli explained.
“What is breaking the tiles may not necessarily be water pressure because the pool is not full – it could be geological.”
Mr Fardan
He noted that suggestions, including installing nets and opening parts of the ground for swimming, as proposed by MP Mahmood Fardan, could be studied but were not guaranteed solutions.
Mr Fardan, chairman of Parliament’s legislative and legal affairs committee and area MP, said Ain Adhari still had enormous untapped potential.
“People today expect more than just a pool,” he said. “They want a whole experience – water activities, decent facilities, cafés, safe surroundings and somewhere to spend the entire day with their families.”
He revealed that he had submitted several proposals to modernise the site, including year-round attractions and small businesses or traditional markets to ensure steady footfall regardless of season.
He also stressed that pricing must remain affordable to maximise visitor numbers, especially during weekends and school holidays.
Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman Ahmed Al Salloom echoed the need for a sustainable solution, saying his Better Life Society could help – only if root problems were fixed.
“We don’t want to spend and spend on endless repairs,” he said. “We want something that can stand, where all we need to do over the years is proper maintenance.”
The society successfully restored Umm Al Shaoum Natural Spring Park in Mahooz in 2024 after years of closure – a model many now hope Ain Adhari can follow.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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