Manama: His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King, President of the Supreme Council for Environment, and Chairman of the Higher Authority for Hawar Islands Development, chaired the inaugural meeting of the commission at Al Riffa Palace.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was convened following the issuance of Royal Decree (115) of 2024, which established the Higher Authority for Hawar Islands Development. The meeting was attended by members of the newly formed authority.
His Highness conveyed gratitude on behalf of himself and the authority members to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for the royal trust placed in him and the appointed authority members. He emphasized the significance of attracting strategic tourism projects that underscore Bahrain's natural landscapes, environment, and cultural heritage. He also acknowledged the support from His Majesty the King and the follow-up by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Shaikh Abdullah highlighted Bahrain's competitive advantages that bolster its position as a tourism destination. He stressed the importance of swiftly implementing development plans and projects with high quality standards, contributing to sustainable development across sectors.
The meeting also focused on achieving tourism milestones in the Hawar Islands to strengthen Bahrain's standing. His Highness called for concerted efforts to meet objectives aligned with various work phases, viewing each achievement as a foundation for further success.
A recent milestone was the opening of the Hawar Resort, operated by Mantis, inaugurated under the patronage of His Majesty the King. This project is the first of three tourism initiatives under development by the High Authority. The initiative highlights Bahrain's unique identity as the region's only archipelagic state.
During the meeting, His Highness was briefed on planned programmes and strategic objectives for the Hawar Islands' development. Discussions included creating a model for sustainable tourism, optimizing the area's potential, and leveraging its appeal to support the national economy and create opportunities for citizens. Updates to the master plan for the Hawar Islands archipelago and findings from initial environmental studies were also reviewed.