Women-only beach to open in Bahrain
Manama, July 3, 2014
A women-only beach is due to open in Bahrain in November.
It will be located at the southern end of a new public beach currently being developed in Askar, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.
Guards will be deployed to keep men away, Southern Municipal Council chairman Mohsin Al Bakri told the GDN.
The women's beach is part of a longer stretch of public coastline undergoing a BD1.5 million ($3.9 million) development.
"The women's section, which will be the southern part of the new Askar coast, will be open at all times - but will be guarded to ensure no males trespass or peep," said Al Bakri.
"We haven't decided yet what types of partitions will be used, but the place will be secure.
"The council and the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry want to provide a suitable environment for women to enjoy their time in line with Islamic values and traditions.
"It is the first coast of its type in Bahrain that is women-only and we want it to come out in the best shape possible, since others could be interested in having one in their governorates."
The Southern Municipal Council said it came up with the idea after women complained that men bothered them whenever they went to a public beach.
It was approved by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.
"Even in public places some privacy is needed, especially when there are parasites searching for entertainment or to hook up with someone," said Al Bakri.
"Women feel offended and they either decide to go when there are few people, or don't go at all and sit at home.
"The new beach will be open daily and women can come at any time with assurances that their privacy will be protected. - TradeArabia News Service
