Bahrain has unveiled plans to restore the popular Bab Al Bahrain archway to its former 1940s glory.

It will also be transformed into a major information centre for tourists and visitors, providing information on tourist attractions across the GCC countries.

The office of the late ruler, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa's office will be revived as a major tourist attraction, Culture Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa said yesterday.

The Old Post Office, facing Bab Al Bahrain, will be transformed into a postal museum, and a large part of the police station in the building will be allocated for a photo exhibition of the history of police in Bahrain.

Other attractions, including lighting, are planned for the revamped Manama Suq. The present shops at the Suq, which were recently revamped, will not be affected by the development of the other parts of the Suq.

Mohammed bin Faris band will perform there every Thursdays in addition to a band playing jazz, the minister said. – TradeArabia News Service