Bahrain: New Underwater Park for Divers to Boost Eco-Tourism

Off the coast of the island state of Bahrain on the Persian Gulf, an “underwater theme park” is currently being created on an area of some 100,000 square meters, which – according to the Bahrain News Agency – is implemented by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and the Supreme Council for Environment in cooperation with the private sector.

As a highlight of the artificial underwater landscape, a decommissioned “Boeing 747” will be sunk. In addition, sculptures (made of environmentally friendly materials), artificial coral reefs and a replica of a traditional Bahraini pearl merchant’s house will be fixed on the seabed. The project is marketed to promote eco-tourism in the region and marine animals and plants are to find a safe new habitat here – a “theme park” for divers. (eap)