Building a better Bahrain

A plethora of projects is under way or in the pipeline in Bahrain. Hugo Berger monitors their progress.

Few countries have benefited from the strengthening political confidence and increased commercial activity in the Gulf more than Bahrain.

Ever since the Lebanese Civil War drove out Beirut's large banking sector, the archipelago has enjoyed a reputation as a strong financial centre. And buoyed by strong communication and transport facilities, numerous multinationals have set up in Bahrain.

The Kingdom is now well on its way to becoming a major tourism and financial hub in the GCC.

A number of mega-projects are under-construction or in the pipeline that will transform the small country over the next few years.

The government has also launched new port projects along with power stations and desalination plants.

Hugo Berger profiles the projects that are going to change Bahrain's landscape.

Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH), Manama

The US $1.3 billion scheme is being built on 380,000m² of reclaimed land and aims to be the country's financial hub.

BFH is made up of 10 projects: Financial Centre, Commercial West, Commercial East, Harbour Row, Hotel, Residential South, Diamond Tower, residential North, Bahrain Performance Centre and Dhow Harbour.

Outside of the capital, the Al Areen project is turning an arid desert into a huge residential, healthcare and entertainment complex.

The Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort opened its doors in 2007, and is already being heralded as one of the Middle East's most luxurious locations.

The scheme also includes the Middle East's biggest water park, The Lost Paradise of Dilmim, Hotel Al Areen, Al Waha Resort, Oryx Hills, Downtown Al Areen, Sarab Al Areen and other residential, recreation and retail facilities.

The development is scheduled for completion next year.

Health Island, Muharraq

This is the first island, not only in Bahrain but in the Gulf, devoted - as its name suggests - to healthcare.

The US $1.6 billion island, which will cover 1.25 million m², is being developed by the Ithmaar Development Company.

Facilities are said to include centres for diagnostics, aesthetic surgery, alternative medicine, nutrition and diabetes in addition to deluxe spas, boutique hotels and luxury residences.

The aim of the project is to make Bahrain the regional hub for health tourism while simultaneously providing first class health care for the Kingdom's residents.

Construction is anticipated to take between three to five years.

Riffa Views, Riffa

The new community will feature 900 homes built around a PGA Championship golf course, designed by Scottish golfer Colin Montgomerie.

The residential development will include three neighbourhood zones, waterways and lagoons, and all homes will have arresting, open views of the verdant golf fairways.

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