Background

Muharraq, an island in Bahrain, is one of the very few living settlements in the Gulf that still preserves a large part of its authentic urban fabric, which dates back to the pearling era of early 1900's. In that regard, the project will rehabilitate and conserve historical properties in Muharraq that are listed under UNESCO Heritage List, and to rebuild a 3.5 km long walking trail termed as the pearling trail that will link the various historical buildings with the amenities along the way. The project is part of a larger government’s program of "Muharraq Conservation Strategy" held by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA).

Under the concept of development through culture, the project will promote local economy based on cultural activities, which at the same time, preserves the heritage and environmental assets as sources of Bahrain’s national pride and identity, and supports the development of tourism sector. The project aims specifically to foster the socio-economic and cultural development of Muharraq Town and improving the living conditions of the residents through preserving historical properties, developing commercial areas and amenities, and improving urban mobility.

Scope

The project involves rehabilitation and conservation of historic buildings (UNESCO World Heritage List) linked to the Muharraq’s pearling heritage and connects them through a 3.5 km long walking trail. In addition to these buildings, 12 properties of significant historic value also be conserved and rehabilitated under this project. The project also involves construction of 19 open public spaces, 4 parking lots (to provide parking spots for the visitors and the residents of the area), façade upgrading for an estimated 750 houses, a visitor center and a pedestrian bridge.

Key dates and data

The project was approved in 11 May 2014, signed in 31 August 2014, and declared effective on 26 August 2015. The total project amount to USD 70 million where the Bank contribution is USD 48 million (68.57%).

Project Objectives

The project aims at fostering the socioeconomic and cultural development of Muharraq and improving the living conditions for the residents by developing new commercial services and improving urban mobility. It involves rehabilitation of 15 historic buildings, included in UNESCO World Heritage List, and connect them through a 3.5 km long walking trail. In addition, 12 properties of significant historic value shall also be conserved and rehabilitated. It also involves construction of 19 open public spaces, 4 parking lots, facade upgrading for 750 houses, a visitor center and a pedestrian bridge.