Building a Legacy: Yusuf Abdulatif Althawadi, Managing Director, Bahrain Marina Development Company

Yusuf Abdulatif Althawadi, Managing Director, Bahrain Marina Development Company W.L.L talks about leading the ambitious Bahrain Marina project, the lessons learned, building communities, and the power of delegation in this interview.

Can you share a recent innovation that has impacted your operations, the industry, or clients?

From the inception of the Bahrain Marina project, our goal was clear: to craft a development that harmonizes contemporary luxury with Bahrain’s vibrant cultural legacy. I worked closely with our design experts to implement strategic modifications to the design, ensuring that Bahrain Marina would not just be another real estate venture, but an integrated destination that mirrors the aspirations of both current and future Bahraini generations.

The project is built on the site of the historic Marina Club, a location that holds special meaning for many Bahrainis. This site carries treasured memories for older generations, and our goal is to create new memories for future generations. By integrating the club’s historic marina into the development, we added a unique dimension for boat enthusiasts, transforming The Marina Club into a modern marine destination offering world-class services.

Every residential apartment has been designed to feature breathtaking views, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable living experience. The project’s prime location in Manama, close to the National Theatre and National Museum, further enriches its cultural value by offering residents and visitors easy access to Bahrain’s most significant cultural and artistic events.

Ultimately, we’ve delivered a project that seamlessly blends history, luxury, and modern technology, making Bahrain Marina a genuinely exceptional destination in Bahrain and the region. This unique blend is a testament to our commitment to creating a project that respects the past while embracing the future, and we are proud to have achieved this balance.

What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned during the implementation of this project?

My experience in the project development field has taught me a crucial lesson: the equilibrium between heritage and innovation is pivotal to the triumph of any project. Our primary challenge was to preserve the historic essence of the Marina Club while delivering a contemporary experience that meets today’s market demands. This balance is achieved through an intelligent design that creates a holistic community by adding luxury retail outlets, international dining experiences, and freehold residences to enrich the residents’ and visitors’ experience.

However, managing costs and timelines always presents challenges, and one of the most complex tasks is catering to public preferences rather than personal tastes. This requires profoundly understanding the community’s needs and aspirations, ensuring the project resonates with the broader audience.

How do you foster a thriving work environment?

I believe in fostering a work environment that promotes teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement. Open and transparent communication is essential, and I encourage team members to share creative ideas without fear of failure—after all, failure is part of the learning and development process.

I focus on listening to my team and motivating them to find innovative and practical solutions. This positive approach helps eliminate negativity and instils a sense of ownership in the team. When people feel part of the solution, it naturally enhances their performance and contributes to outstanding results.

Additionally, I’m a strong advocate of work-life balance. Employees are not just resources to meet goals—they are individuals with personal needs. By creating a supportive and flexible environment and recognising their contributions, we build teams with a sense of belonging and motivation. When employees are appreciated, they give their best effort, reflected in their work.

What inspired you to pursue a real estate and community development career?

My passion for real estate and urban planning began as I was a child, watching how Bahrain flourished and developed from a historic city to a modern urban centre. As a Bahraini, I thrive to be part of this development and to contribute to building holistic communities that enhance the quality of life while preserving the cultural identity of our Kingdom.

Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that influenced your leadership style?

One of the most defining moments in my career was transitioning from being an engineer in the military field to the private sector. In the military, I learned the importance of discipline and structure. Still, when I moved to the private sector, I realised that leadership requires more than just discipline—flexibility and strong communication.

Leading diverse teams in the private sector has underscored the significance of trust and delegation. Initially, I relied on strict discipline, but I soon realized that effective leadership is about empowering the team, trusting their capabilities, and fostering collaboration. This shift in mindset has significantly influenced my leadership style and my ability to achieve results by building cohesive and motivated teams.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in your career or as a leader?

I am genuinely satisfied with my path, including the mistakes and challenges along the way. Each stumble and obstacle presented valuable lessons that helped me refine my skills and develop a clear vision for the projects I oversee. Every challenge was an opportunity for growth, and I believe those experiences shaped the leader I’ve become today. In hindsight, I wouldn’t change anything, as all of it contributed to my personal and professional development. I hope this reassures you that challenges are not setbacks, but growth opportunities.

What is your strategy for managing stress and avoiding burnout?

Managing stress is closely tied to maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. I make it a point to set aside time for activities that help clear my mind and recharge, such as listening to cultural and historical channels, especially those focused on the history of the Gulf region, which I’m passionate about. I also enjoy playing snooker and going on fishing trips, which offer a great escape from work pressures.

I believe in the importance of flexibility in the workplace, so I always strive to organise my time to focus on priorities without exhausting myself. Another key aspect of stress management is delegation. I trust my team to handle day-to-day responsibilities efficiently, which allows me to focus on the strategic aspects of leadership. This trust in my team helps me avoid becoming overwhelmed and ensures that I can stay focused on the bigger picture.