American Express (Amex) Middle East has announced the signing of a sponsorship agreement with the Bahrain Ministry of Culture to support the restoration of Bab Al Bahrain (Gateway of Bahrain), an architectural landmark in Manama.

Organised under the guidance of Sheikha Mai Bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, the Minister of Culture, the refurbishment of Bab Al Bahrain is part of the Ministry’s “Invest in Culture” initiative. 

Amex Middle East, which has been headquartered in Manama since 1977, will provide funding for the renovation of the memorial office of His Highness the late Amir, Sheikh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, which is situated within Bab Al Bahrain.

Sheikha Mai said: “We are pleased to welcome Amex Middle East as a key business partner in the restoration of Bab Al Bahrain. With its substantial financial support, American Express Middle East is continuing its long-standing commitment to support economic development and cultural life in Bahrain. We look forward to working together through the course of the year as we continue to move forward with this exciting project.”

William Keliehor, chief executive officer, Amex Middle East, said: “Supporting the communities where we live and work is an extension of the service ethic at the heart of American Express. Bab Al Bahrain is an important cultural landmark in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and we are proud to be part of its renovation. We look forward to working closely with the Ministry to contribute towards the preservation of Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage.”

Designed by Sir Charles Belgrave, adviser to the Emir, Bab Al Bahrain was first built in 1945. It marks the main entrance to the Manama souq, and initially stood close to the water’s edge, although extensive land reclamation has added new construction and roads around the monument. Refurbished in 1986 to incorporate Islamic architectural features, the building consists of a huge arch, below which runs a road.- TradeArabia News Service