Bahrain Chamber Visits Manama Souq to Support Traditional Markets

Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber, Nabeel Kanoo, affirmed that Manama Souq represents one of Bahrain's most prominent economic, commercial, and heritage landmarks. He emphasized that preserving its status and enhancing its economic and tourism role are top priorities for the Chamber. 

This occurred during a field visit organized by the Bahrain Chamber's Board of Directors to Manama Souq, with participation from several board members and a gathering of the souq's business owners. The visit aimed to assess the souq's conditions and needs, and to hear directly from business owners' insights and suggestions at their places of business.

Kanoo stated that the Board of Directors adopts an approach based on field presence and direct communication with business owners, stemming from his conviction that the best economic decisions build on real, on-the-ground experience.

He explained that this visit marks the first in a regular program of field visits that will cover traditional markets and economic sectors across all governorates of the Kingdom, bringing the Chamber closer to business owners and enabling it to directly identify the priorities of various economic sectors. 

He noted that traditional markets are a core part of Bahrain's economic and national identity, not just commercial spaces. The visit included open discussions with shop owners, whose feedback the Chamber will follow up on with relevant authorities to develop into practical improvements for the business environment.

Kanoo added that most businesses operating in Manama Souq fall under the small and medium enterprises (SME's) sector, making their support a top priority for the Board of Directors. He pointed out that establishing a specialized department to support these enterprises reflects the Chamber's commitment to following up on their needs and working with relevant authorities to enable their growth and expansion.

Kanoo concluded his remarks by affirming that these field visits fall within the framework of the Chamber's role as a partner in Bahrain's economic development journey.