Sea Treasure

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahraini pearl diver Abbas Ali Kitab, owner of Pearls Valley in Karzakan, reflects on his journey in the world of natural pearls in an exclusive interview with The Daily Tribune, sharing how a simple diving hobby evolved into a lifelong connection with one of Bahrain’s most valuable natural treasures.

Kitab’s story highlights the enduring cultural and historical importance of pearl diving in Bahrain, a tradition that once formed the backbone of the national economy. Today, while the industry has changed, natural pearls remain a symbol of identity, craftsmanship, and heritage that continues to face modern challenges.

His journey began 12 years ago as a general diving hobby focused on fishing and exploration. Over time, his passion evolved into harvesting natural pearls through dives across Bahrain’s historic pearl grounds.

Before the discovery of oil, Bahrain and the GCC relied heavily on pearl diving as a primary source of livelihood. He emphasizes that this heritage remains deeply respected today, with Bahraini pearls still considered among the finest in the world.

“Bahraini pearls are known for their natural purity and brilliance,” he explains. “They are among the finest natural pearls in the world and do not require any artificial treatment or enhancement.”

Despite its cultural value, pearl diving remains a physically demanding and dangerous profession.

“Pearl diving is beautiful, but it is also one of the most dangerous professions,” he says. “Divers face risks such as drowning, oxygen shortage, strong currents, and encounters with marine life.”

What began as a passion eventually developed into a professional pursuit when Kitab and his five-member team secured first place in the Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Marine Heritage Sports Season 2020, competing in a modern pearl extraction category that honors traditional diving skills.

He adds that pearls come in a variety of shapes and colors, including white, green, and rare dark tones. One of his most unusual discoveries was a pearl shaped exactly like a human eye — a striking reminder of nature’s unpredictability