Bahrain World Trade Center | Manama

The Bahrain World Trade Center is a pair of mixed-use skyscrapers located in Manama, Bahrain. It is recognized for its distinctive architectural design incorporating wind turbines.

Visual Characteristics

The complex consists of two 240-meter (787 ft) tall towers, each with 50 floors. The towers are constructed primarily of steel and glass. Their defining feature is the presence of three large, 29-meter (95 ft) diameter wind turbines suspended between the towers by skybridges. The exterior glass is tinted blue. The architectural style is modern, with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency.

Location & Access Logistics

The Bahrain World Trade Center is situated in the financial district of Manama, adjacent to the King Faisal Highway. It is approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) west of the city center. Ample underground parking is available for visitors. Public transport options include several bus routes that stop near the towers along the King Faisal Highway.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Bahrain World Trade Center began in 2004 and was completed in 2008. The project was designed by the architectural firm Atkins. The primary purpose was to create a landmark commercial and residential complex that also served as a symbol of Bahrain's commitment to renewable energy. The integration of wind turbines was a pioneering element in large-scale skyscraper design.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the operational wind turbines from the exterior. The ground floor retail areas offer shopping opportunities. The towers house offices and residential apartments, with access restricted to occupants and their guests. Guided tours focusing on the building's sustainable design are sometimes available, though not on a fixed schedule.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the retail and office areas. Limited shaded areas are present in the immediate vicinity of the building's base. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in the area. Several food and beverage vendors are located within the adjacent shopping centers and along the King Faisal Highway.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, the late afternoon provides favorable lighting conditions as the sun sets behind the towers. The wind turbines are most active when wind speeds are higher, typically during the cooler months from November to March. There are no tide-dependent activities associated with this landmark.

Facts & Legends

The Bahrain World Trade Center was the first skyscraper in the world to integrate large-scale wind turbines into its design. The turbines are designed to generate approximately 11-15% of the building's annual electricity consumption. A local anecdote suggests that the turbines are so powerful they can be heard humming on windy days, though this is largely unverified.

Nearby Landmarks

• The Avenues Mall (0.3km East)
• Bab Al Bahrain (1.2km Southeast)
• Bahrain National Museum (2.5km East)
• Al Fateh Grand Mosque (3.8km Southeast)