Interview: Mohamed bin Thamer Al Kaabi
Which priorities is Bahrain focusing on to improve its transport and logistics sector?
MOHAMED BIN THAMER AL KAABI: Bahrain’s strategy for the logistics services sector is set to play a critical role in Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. Under the plan, the kingdom aims to leverage its strategic location and logistics capabilities to position it among the top-20 global destinations for logistics services by 2030. The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MoTT) has a key role in achieving this goal by focusing on developing infrastructure, promoting logistics services and developing human capital to support the sector’s growth.
As for ports, the Bahrain Logistics Zone aims to attract foreign direct investment by leveraging its proximity to the Khalifa Bin Salman Port. To further develop the country’s logistics infrastructure, the MoTT is working on a new causeway between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, which will boost the logistics sector.
In what ways can the private sector contribute to the broader transport industry in Bahrain?
AL KAABI: The private sector can increase its contribution by investing in infrastructure, technology and innovation; implementing new transport services; and providing training and professional development opportunities. This would improve operational efficiency, competitiveness and service quality.
Potential development areas include the construction of a new airport, an option that is currently being studied by the MoTT; the development of new port infrastructure solely designed for bulk material or cruise terminals; and a metro system to be built on a design-build-finance-operate-transfer basis, under which the private developer would provide the expertise and financing to build the metro and run it for the next 30 years. This would be the first model of its kind for operating a metro system in the GCC. The proposed plan for the new causeway between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia is also considering private sector participation.
How can technology assist in enhancing smart transport systems and services?
AL KAABI: We are looking to improve digitalisation through e-platforms to simplify licensing, booking and tracking procedures, as well as to automate certain operations. The new passenger terminal at Bahrain International Airport (BIA) that opened in June 2022 features the latest baggage-handling technology and an advanced communications system that utilises cloudbased unified communications, video cloud, the internet of things (IoT) and big data platforms.
In the ports segment, there is significant potential for the further deployment of technology. Smart transport networks, along with mobility systems and services, can help improve efficiency, safety and sustainability at ports. For example, IoT can be used to analyse data in real time, and optimise and automate port operations. By implementing smart transport technologies, Bahrain can enhance its overall operations and position itself more competitively in the region.
What is Bahrain’s long-term vision to enhance mobility across the kingdom, and what might catalyse its economic growth and social development?
AL KAABI: A sustainable, fully integrated transport system is expected to result in enhanced logistics, greater productivity, increased trade and commerce, and a more attractive investment climate, serving not only Bahrain, but also the wider region. One of the goals of the new passenger terminal at BIA is to enable business and tourism, while also playing a significant role in a logistics and cargo ecosystem that serves players operating within the local private sector.
We are also working on creating subsystems that will help enhance mobility around the kingdom. These subsystems include the new feeder bus system around metro stations, dedicated bicycle tracks and new modes of transport such as e-scooters, which are already in operation at various locations across the country.
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