Manama: The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) has completed the restoration of 16 heritage buildings in Muharraq City, aiming to revive the historical and cultural identity of the area. The initiative reflects the visual unity of its urban heritage, integrating both heritage and contemporary elements. The city is home to a significant architectural legacy from Bahrain’s pearling era, linked to the UNESCO World Heritage site “Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy,” which spans 3.5 kilometres and includes historic houses, public spaces, and cultural buildings.
According to Bahrain News Agency, BACA is working to position Muharraq City on the global cultural tourism map by protecting its heritage buildings. Collaborating with official entities, BACA has developed four main streets, including Shaikh Abdullah Avenue and the extensions of Bu Maher and Tijjar Avenues. The first phase of development on Shaikh Hamad Avenue was completed in the first quarter of 2025.
Culturally, BACA, with its partners, has launched initiatives like the Muharraq Nights Festival, aligning with Bahrain’s National Days and the King’s Accession Day. Held along the Pearling Path, from Bu Maher shoreline to the Pearl Museum, the festival offers a unique tourism experience connecting heritage with modernity.
The city’s development plan includes exhibitions across historic sites on the Pearling Path, telling the stories of divers, pearl merchants, and ship captains. At the Pearl Museum – Majlis Siyadi, a curated display featured some of the oldest pearls from the Bahrain National Museum collection, items from a private collection, and archival material from Cartier. Other sites along the path, such as Bu Maher Fort Visitor Centre and Al Ghous House, hosted exhibitions. Amarat Fakhro provided a shopping experience in jewellery and gold. The activities also include cultural tours, training workshops, and ongoing events.