Youth Affairs Minister: Youth initiatives at Muharraq Nights reflect creativity and a commitment to preserving national identity
Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfeeqi, Youth Affairs Minister, said the fourth edition of Muharraq Nights has once again affirmed the festival’s role as a vibrant cultural landmark that celebrates Bahrain’s heritage and identity. She highlighted the strong contribution of young Bahrainis, whose ideas and initiatives continue to bring new life to the festival and present national traditions in fresh, contemporary ways.
The minister made her remarks during a visit to the Mahmood Ismail Al Saa’ati Museum at Bait Jamsheer, held as part of the festival and attended by members of the national “Laame’” project. She was briefed by Mohamed Akbar Al Saa’ati, a member of the project, who outlined the legacy of his grandfather, Mahmood Ismail Al Saa’ati, a pioneering figure credited with introducing cinema to Bahrain, and his wider contributions to the cultural scene, including early sound recordings and his work in watchmaking and related trades.
Minister Tawfeeqi commended the Al Saa’ati family for their efforts to preserve and present this important chapter of Bahrain’s story, noting that their work reflects the creativity and initiative of Bahraini youth, and offers visitors a meaningful insight into the Kingdom’s cultural evolution.
She added that showcasing such heritage within one of Bahrain’s key cultural festivals demonstrates a growing awareness among young people of the value of safeguarding national identity while presenting it in a form that resonates with modern audiences. She stressed the importance of sustaining this work so it can serve as a lasting model for preserving Bahrain’s collective memory.
During the visit, the minister also underlined the need to continue presenting Bahraini heritage in ways that combine authenticity with innovation, reflecting the imagination and enthusiasm of young people in keeping national identity alive and relevant.
Content last updated: 21 December 2025