THE BD15 million revamped Adhari Park will be officially opened on Family Day, which falls on Friday.

All of the rides are operational and have passed their safety tests, said Northern Municipal Council Chairman Yousif Al Boori.

Municipalities and Agriculture Minister Mansoor bin Rajab visited the park last night for a grand unveiling. He earlier described the new development as a major addition to Bahrain's tourist industry.

A total of 120 Bahrainis have been hired and trained to operate the park and give first aid, accounting for 90 per cent of the staff, said Mr Al Boori.

"We want to have the official opening under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad and we are still awaiting the approval," he said.

"The park has 34 rides, including bumper cars, a monorail, mini golf and a children's museum."

Mr Al Boori said that the park also included a recreational building which has a bowling alley, billiards, a number of electronic games and a multi-purpose hall.

"The food court contains fast food restaurants such as KFC, Jasmis, Al Abraj, Subway and many others," he said.

The park has been built on an area of 165,319sqm and attractions include go-carting, plus family recreation facilities and a traditional shopping mall with 25 shops. The park is part of the second phase to revive the Adhari area, which boasts one of Bahrain's most historic landmarks, Ain Adhari. The ancient natural freshwater spring was renovated three and a half years ago.

The project is being constructed by Al Khaleej Development Company (Tameer) and Kuwaiti Markets and Commercial Complexes Company, which has been contracted to run the park for 30 years. They formed the Adhari Park Development Company (an independent body), with three other partner companies.

Part of the historic park was reopened to the public in September 2003, after the pool and surrounding area was renovated and a mosque built, at a cost of BD60,000. Until a decade ago, the pool was one of the most popular recreational sites in Bahrain.

The whole project was initiated by His Majesty and is being overseen by the Northern Municipality.

Visitors at the park will have to pay 500 fils per head, per day, while the rides range from 250fils to BD3 per head.

The park will be open to the public from 8am to 1pm and from 4pm to 10pm and up to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.