ICT sector development forms a central element of Bahrain’s economic growth and innovation plans, enabling the development of multiple sectors and enhancing public service provision. Owing to a favourable business environment, advanced digital infrastructure and a deep talent pool, the kingdom has emerged as an attractive proposition for international ICT companies seeking a base in the region. The…
Policy interventions and an investor-friendly regulatory environment continue to attract investors to Bahrain as both a place to establish a business, and as a gateway through which to enter the markets of the broader GCC and MENA regions. A more strategic and sustainable funding model has been adopted by the government, and this shift in approach is beginning to be reflected in the fiscal balance
Interview:Mikkel Vinter Where do you identify the main investment opportunities in the ICT sector? MIKKEL VINTER: Investment opportunities are centred around two main segments: telecommunications and digital technologies. Regarding the telecommunications space, we are investing in networks – 5G in particular – and rolling out fibre to more homes and businesses across Bahrain. We are also…
Interview:Philip Marnick How could regulatory changes boost the country’s attractiveness as an ICT investment destination? PHILIP MARNICK: Bahrain is making significant strides towards achieving the objectives outlined in its fifth National Telecommunications Plan, the blueprint for the country’s communications sector. Bahrain aims to become a frontrunner in innovation and investment, fostering…
ICT sector development forms a central element of Bahrain’s economic growth and innovation plans, enabling the development of multiple sectors and enhancing public service provision. Owing to a favourable business environment, advanced digital infrastructure and a deep talent pool, the kingdom has emerged as an attractive proposition for international ICT companies seeking a base in the region. The…
With global geopolitical instability elevating the threat of cyberattacks against businesses and government agencies alike, the GCC is rapidly developing more robust and comprehensive cybersecurity strategies to respond to the evolving nature of such threats. Since experiencing their first major cyberattacks in the early 2010s, the six members of the GCC have looked at ways to bolster their cybersecurity…
As part of ongoing efforts to stimulate growth in the digital economy, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) launched a new Innovation Licence in October 2022, encouraging companies to experiment with next-generation services using wireless technologies. By eliminating lengthy regulatory approval processes, companies can test and deploy new technologies more quickly, fostering greater innovation. Regulatory…
MEET ICT Conference and BITEX Exhibition is happening in Parallel. This year’s Edition of the MEET ICT Conference and BITEX Exhibition highlights the concept of sustainable development and how the Information and Communication Technology industry contributes to achieving economic growth, job creation, and human development, leading to a better life for citizens. The event features in-depth…
With a relatively small but sophisticated market, Bahrain’s ICT sector is an important driver of export growth in the country, thanks to the scalability of software and services, and supportive government policy. As the kingdom looks to capitalise on the digitisation gains made before and during the Covid-19 pandemic, economic recovery plans centre around further ICT development and cybersecurity…
Interview:Mohammed Ali Al Qaed To what extent did the Covid-19 pandemic impact digital transformation in Bahrain? MOHAMMED ALI AL QAED: Bahrain developed a robust ICT sector years ahead of the pandemic, and when the crisis emerged the country had the necessary infrastructure and strategies in place to support the shift to working, learning and communicating online. As such, the kingdom of Bahrain…
