Manama Suq revamp plan to attract tourism and business to Bahrain, Mr. Altahoo said

The Old Suq Committee members are all geared up following the announcement made by Commerce and Tourism Minister Zayed Al Zayani to revamp the iconic old suq. Tribune spoke exclusively to members of the Old Suq Committee, chaired by the BTEA chief Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, with regard to their vision for the renovation of the heart of our Capital. “The developments include new roads, proper lighting, ample parking spaces and renovation of buildings. We’re going for a traditional Bahraini theme,” said Nabeel Abdulrahman Ajoor, Director of Ajoor Co. “This will attract tourism and business, we will renew this Suq,” he added. The outcome of the project will not only yield economic benefits but also upgrade the living experience for residents of the area. 

The issue of illegal vendors on the street of the Manama Suq has been an age long issue for local shopkeepers as well as residents who are unable to maneuver through the streets comfortably. 

 “The proposal for the vendor permit has been presented at the meeting, this will limit the vendors on each lane,” said Shabbir Sharafali.

The commencement of the renovation of the Manama Suq has been a long time coming. The planning stage began nearly four years ago in coordination with Urban and Old Suqs Development expert Hank Dittmar as well as the previous Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The withdrawal of the newly elected BCCI has caused disruption in the development plan as well as dismay among parties currently involved in the renovation. 

“Neglecting the Manama Suq as a whole is wrong and unfair to all those traders who from generations have kept the Manama Suq alive and in turn kept BCCI alive,” Sharafali said