Waterfront development projects worth $3 billion are set to transform Bahrain into the Venice of the Middle East, says an international expert.

“Although waterfront developments are taking the whole world by storm, the projects being undertaken in the Middle East, especially Bahrain, are unique in many ways,” said Waterfront Expo 2003 project director Mark Beaumont.
“From the Amwaj Islands development to the stunningly futuristic Bahrain Financial Harbour project, Bahrain is setting new standards of waterfront innovation; rather, redefining the very concept of waterfront development itself,” he said.
“Together, these projects are raising Bahrain’s profile as a place to live, work, play and relax.”
Beaumont was speaking following a visit to Bahrain to promote the world’s only dedicated exhibition and conference on waterfront development, being staged at the ExCel Centre, London.
“Bahraini developers have been quick to spot the global trend, and have come up with projects that match the world’s very best,” he said.
“However, competition from regional players is hotting up. To stay ahead of competition, Bahraini developers need to promote their waterfront projects more aggressively,” cautioned Beaumont.
“Investors in the UK and European markets are eyeing the region’s waterfront projects with interest, particularly in view of the recent move by Dubai, Qatar and Bahrain to allow freehold properties,” he said.