Bahrain World Trade Center: A Multi-Use Commercial Hub

The Bahrain World Trade Center is a 240-metre-high, 50-floor, twin-tower complex located in Manama, Bahrain. It is the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into its design, with each of the three sky bridges holding a 225 kW wind turbine. The building is home to global corporations and luxury brands, and its sleek design and bold aesthetics have made it an iconic landmark in Bahrain.

The Bahrain World Trade Center's design

The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) is a 240-metre-high, 50-floor, twin-tower complex located in Manama, Bahrain. It is the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into its design. The building was designed by the multi-national architectural firm Atkins and was completed in 2008.

The two towers are inspired by the shape of sails, harnessing wind energy just as ships do. The towers are connected by three skybridges, each supporting a 225 kW wind turbine. The turbines have blades measuring 29 metres in diameter and are aligned north to capture the winds blowing in from the Persian Gulf. The towers themselves are also designed to funnel wind through the gap between them, providing accelerated wind to pass through the turbines. This innovative design significantly increases the potential to generate electricity.

The BWTC is strategically located near the King Faisal Highway, close to landmarks such as the Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH), the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), and the Abraj Al Lulu towers. The towers' sleek, sail-shaped design is both aesthetic and functional, aimed at harnessing the power of the prevailing winds. The colour scheme of the building also contributes to its modern aesthetic, with cool colours creating an ultra-modern backdrop.

The BWTC stands as a testament to modern architectural innovation and sustainability. It has received recognition for its pioneering use of wind energy, including the 2006 LEAF Award for Best Use of Technology within a Large Scheme and the Arab Construction World Sustainable Design Award. The building is a proud symbol of Bahrain, showcasing the country's commitment to sustainable design and renewable energy.

Sustainability and renewable energy

The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) is a testament to modern architectural innovation and sustainability. The twin-tower complex, which stands at 240 metres (787 feet) and 50 floors, is the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines directly into its structure. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Atkins and completed in 2008, the BWTC combines cutting-edge design with ecological responsibility.

The BWTC is strategically located near the King Faisal Highway in Manama, Bahrain, close to landmarks such as the Bahrain Financial Harbour and the Abraj Al Lulu towers. The towers' sleek, sail-shaped design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, as it is aimed at optimising the passage of wind and harnessing the power of the prevailing winds from the Persian Gulf. This design increases the natural wind rate by up to 30%.

The two towers are connected by three sky bridges, each supporting a 225 kW wind turbine with blades measuring 29 metres in diameter. These turbines are oriented to capture the northward winds, enhancing their efficiency in generating power. The BWTC's wind turbines are expected to contribute between 11% and 15% of the towers' total energy consumption, which is equivalent to powering the lighting for around 300 homes per year.

The BWTC's commitment to sustainability goes beyond its wind turbines. The building has also invested in the latest, cost-efficient technologies, with sustainability as an essential component of its innovative design. The BWTC sets technological advancements in sustainability through its eco-friendly architecture, demonstrating Bahrain's commitment to sustainable design and renewable energy.

The building's location

The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) is located in the capital city of Manama, Bahrain, and is considered an iconic landmark in the kingdom. Strategically positioned near the bustling King Faisal Highway, it is close to popular landmarks such as the towers of Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH), the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), and Abraj Al Lulu. Its prime location in the business district underscores the building's importance within Bahrain's urban fabric.

The BWTC is easily accessible by air, sea, and road. It is just 12 minutes away from Bahrain International Airport and a short 2-minute drive from major hotels. Additionally, the King Fahd Causeway conveniently links the BWTC to the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. This accessibility enhances its reputation as Bahrain's number one business address, attracting leading regional and international organisations.

The BWTC's location on the main axis of the former shopping mall, facing the Arabian Gulf, is intentional. The twin towers' natural position was chosen to optimise the wind funneling effect, with the towers acting as aerofoils. This strategic placement maximises the wind velocity directed at the turbines, increasing their energy production capabilities.

The BWTC's proximity to the Arabian Gulf is also significant. Approximately 70% of the wind that powers the turbines comes from the Gulf, with the towers designed to harness the northward winds blowing in from the Gulf. This design showcases the building's functional and aesthetic fusion, as the sail-shaped towers draw inspiration from traditional Arabian trading ships.

The BWTC as a business hub

The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) is Bahrain's premier business address, attracting leading regional and international organisations. The BWTC is a hub of business and leisure, housing some of the world's most prestigious organisations and luxury brands, as well as a five-star hotel and an exclusive shopping mall.

The BWTC is strategically located in the heart of Manama's business district, with excellent connectivity to the rest of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. It is easily accessible by air, sea, and the King Fahad Causeway, which links Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. The BWTC is also within close proximity to embassies, major hotels, and business districts.

The complex includes two 44-story office towers, accommodating various business headquarters and satellite offices. The BWTC is the perfect space for organisations looking to establish, grow, or expand in the GCC region and beyond. The building can cater to small enterprises across multiple floors, offering the ideal office space for businesses of all sizes.

The BWTC also boasts a range of luxurious amenities, including a five-star Sheraton Hotel and the MODA Mall, Bahrain's premium shopping destination. The mall caters to both the business community and discerning shoppers, offering high-end boutiques, modern cafes, and fine dining restaurants.

The BWTC's sleek, ultra-modern design and bold aesthetics create a striking backdrop for global corporations and luxury brands. The complex stands as an iconic landmark in Bahrain, with its sail-shaped towers rising 240 meters above the city of Manama. The BWTC combines state-of-the-art engineering with architectural elegance, reflecting Bahrain's commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.

Awards and recognition

The Bahrain World Trade Center has received numerous awards and recognition for its innovative design and sustainability efforts. Here is a list of some of the awards received by the BWTC:

• In 2006, the BWTC received the prestigious LEAF Award for Best Use of Technology within a Large Scheme. This award recognised the centre's integration of wind turbines into its structural design, which was a first for a skyscraper.
• The BWTC also won the Arab Construction World Award for Sustainable Design. This award acknowledged the centre's commitment to renewable energy and reducing its carbon footprint.
• In 2008, the BWTC was named the Best Tall Building in the Middle East and Africa by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH). This award celebrated the centre's architectural excellence and its contribution to the region's skyline.
• The BWTC has also been recognised for its role in raising global awareness for sustainable design. It has been described as a technological precedent, pioneering a new direction for designers and developers by demonstrating that commercial developments can be environmentally conscious.
• Additionally, the BWTC has become a source of national pride for Bahrain residents and has been credited with generating economic prosperity within the capital city of Manama.
• The BWTC is also recognised as a landmark in Bahrain and a beacon of sustainable design worldwide. Its strategic location, innovative wind turbine integration, and luxurious amenities make it a notable attraction.

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