Examples of National Initiatives Supporting the Achievement of this Goal
Developing Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure
The Kingdom of Bahrain is enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of its transportation network through infrastructure development and the integration of modern technologies across land, air, and maritime transport. Key road projects include upgrades to Al Fateh Highway, Muharraq Ring Road, and roads leading to Bahrain International Airport, alongside smart traffic management systems, energy-efficient solutions, and smart taxi meters. In the aviation sector, the new passenger terminal at Bahrain International Airport opened in 2021, incorporating sustainability measures aligned with national renewable energy and energy efficiency plans, and received the ACI Green Airports Recognition Silver Award in 2023. In maritime transport, Khalifa Bin Salman Port became the region’s first fully solar-powered seaport in 2023, alongside improvements to passenger maritime connectivity, contributing to more efficient and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Preserving Cultural Heritage and Revitalizing Historical Areas
The Kingdom of Bahrain is advancing efforts to preserve its cultural and architectural heritage through integrated urban development initiatives that safeguard historical identity while enhancing quality of life. Key initiatives include the Muharraq Development Plan, which focuses on restoring heritage buildings, completing the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path project, and upgrading public infrastructure, facilities, and green spaces. These efforts extend to the revitalization of the historic Manama Souq, the redevelopment of Awali while preserving its distinctive architectural character, and the development of the Hawar Islands as a sustainable ecotourism destination. Alongside the preservation of Bahrain’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Qal’at al-Bahrain, the Pearling Path, and the Dilmun Burial Mounds—these initiatives contribute to sustainable urban regeneration, strengthen cultural identity, and safeguard the Kingdom’s heritage for future generations.
Sustainable Urban Planning and City Development
The Kingdom of Bahrain is advancing sustainable urban planning through the development of modern residential communities that integrate quality of life with environmental sustainability. Key initiatives include five major housing developments: Madinat Salman, Madinat Khalifa, Hidd City, Sitra City, and Ramli District. These projects incorporate integrated infrastructure and community services, green spaces, pedestrian and cycling pathways, resource efficiency, and natural ventilation. Salman City stands as a leading example of this approach, featuring climate-responsive urban design and the use of treated wastewater for irrigation, contributing to the development of more sustainable and resilient urban communities.
International Recognition of Bahrain’s Agricultural Villages
In 2026, four Bahraini villages received international recognition under the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Villages Recognition Initiative, highlighting the Kingdom’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, preserve traditional food systems, and support rural development. Hoorat A’ali was recognized in the Science, Innovation and Digital Villages category, Buri for Natural Villages, Karranah for Traditional Food Cultures, and Budaiya for Agritourism Experiences. This recognition reflects Bahrain’s commitment to advancing agricultural innovation, safeguarding local agricultural heritage, and strengthening the sustainability of rural communities, contributing to national food security and sustainable development.