Urban Waterfront Developments – Empowering the Bahrain Community

Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain:

At the second Annual Urban Waterfronts Conference held in Bahrain this week, Ahmed Mohammed Al Khan, Head of Investment Banking at GBCORP (Global Banking Corporation) based in Bahrain, made a presentation to some 200 international delegates entitled: "Empowering the local community to provide authentic tourism services."

Mr. Al Khan focused on the requirements for urban waterfront developments, explaining that:

• Local Bahrain flavor must be integrated into all aspects of such developments;
• The local mainland community must be active participants in the development;
• There should be leverage of the maritime history and natural pride of the community;
• Creating awareness about the project must be done with full understanding of the local Bahrain culture, needs and aspirations.
  

Mr. Al Khan went on to say:
"Bahrain is an island nation. Bahrain has for long enjoyed a rich maritime lifestyle and a cultural heritage that dates back to the Dilmun civilization. But unfortunately the island concept has not figured much in the way we live and have developed our habitat. A common problem is the failure to consider local cultural factors and life-styles in designing community lifestyle habitats.
Other successful waterfront destinations around the world have also used this incremental development process that invites the public to participate every step of the way."

"Waterfronts can be very successful and vitalized through public-private partnerships (PPPs), with community collaboration also creating a greater positive impact and stimulus for the local economy, plus a rewarding experience to local residents. So, evaluation and information sharing is absolutely crucial.

"Bahrain has great potential as both a regional and global world-class waterfront destination, with: 33 islands; a cosmopolitan capital city; an attractive liberal lifestyle; plus a rich maritime history and culture.

"Tourism is one of Bahrain’s fastest-growing sectors, currently representing 12% of the Kingdom’s total income; this is expected to rise to 25% over the next ten years with both government and the private sector investing in the tourism infrastructure.

"Weekend tourism is also a promising growth sector, as Bahrain offers extensive entertainment and retail facilities. Plus, the country is a strong player in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) sector.

Mr. Al Khan concluded by saying “Waterfront developments cannot sustain itself in isolation. It has to be a perfect blend of the modern and the traditional. While local culture and flavor can enrich the development, it also has to focus on a global audience. The ideal scenario is therefore to have a development that is for the people, in harmony with their desires, aspirations and needs."