Deputy Premier visits Bahrain Bay

Manama, Jan. 5 (BNA): Deputy Premier and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Development Projects and Infrastructure, Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, has stated that the seafront, north of Manama, has become, thanks to the government’s supportive vision and the investors’ confidence, a civilisational monument and one of the main drivers of the national economy. While visiting the Bahrain Bay project, the deputy premier asserted that the government’s policies to enhance the private sector’s role and make it an effective partner in the development process through a host of guarantees, including the legislative cover, easy procedures and enhancement of the competitiveness potentials that attract investors, have resulted in numerous multi-purpose quality and strategic projects that meet the needs of the business, investment, real estate development, tourism and entertainment sectors in one site such as the distinguished location of the Bahrain Bay project within the seafront. The deputy premier made the statements as he visited the Bahrain Bay project, alongside Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Development Minister, Essam bin Abdulla Khalaf, at the invitation of the Chief Executive Officer of Arcapita Group and Baord Chairman of the Bahrain Bay Development company, Atif Ahmed Abdulmalik, to be informed about the latest construction developments at the project. While touring Bahrain Bay, the deputy premier expressed admiration for the project and its integrated elements, noting that it has added a unique architectural and beauty splendor to the region, and made it an attractive element that reflects Manama’s civilisational image, authenticity and identity. Shaikh Khalid pointed out that Bahrain boasts many requirements that entitle many regions to host similar projects to Bahrain Bay, which, he said, will reflect positively on the national economy as they will generate job opportunities for the citizens, diversify income sources and consolidate the kingdom’s regional status as business hub and a centre for regional and international companies. The Bahrain Bay project is one of the most important landmarks in the capital, Manama, and is a developed seafront covering an area of 450,000 square metres and with an investment value of $ 2.5 billion. It provides residential, commercial and tourism services, and features social and public facilities. Atif Ahmed Abdulmalik expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to Deputy Premier Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla for his visit. He said that Bahrain Bay Development company had developed a 20,000-square-metre area for use as open public areas including walkways, parks, playgrounds and pedestrian paths. It has also constructed many outlets, 70% of which have been rented by a number of high-end brands operating restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as business offices. He asserted that the deputy premier’s visit will motivate the company to continue its efforts in order to contribute to the progress march currently witnessed by the kingdom, and achieve the government’s aspirations to enhance economic development in partnership with the private sector. He also praised the sound directives given by the deputy premier during the visit.