The first phase of the renovated souq in Manama was opened yesterday (August 10) by Bahrain’s Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

He urged speedy completion of Manama's revamped souq project while calling on developers and planners to retain the souq's magical atmosphere.

This was the only way to attract more visitors, tourists and shoppers, the Premier said.

The second phase includes the remainder of the souq, to the end of Bab Al Bahrain.

The ancient shops must be preserved, the Premier said as he opened the new-look market from Bab Al Bahrain to Al Tijjar Avenue junction. He said the souq's traditional nature must be considered during the second phase it is a heritage market.

Developing the souq aims to elevate its urban standards, attract shoppers and visitors and encourage traders to expand their activities, he said.

The Premier also stressed that the souq is to maintain its commercial value to keep pace with commercial complexes and high demand by traders and visitors. It should remain a tourism and commercial landmark that distinguished Bahrain through the years, he said.

He toured the suq and met traders who briefed him on their activities. Municipalities and Agriculture Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi also briefed him on the second phase, costing BD2 million ($5.3 million).

The premier stressed the importance of preserving Bahrain's historical and heritage sites and paid tribute to all those who contributed to the project.

The first phase also included revamping of government premises, police station and post office, developing roads and lighting, establishing a seven-story parking for 400 cars spread on 1,900 sq m and shops on the ground floor. – TradeArabia News Service