MPs urge Tamkeen to fund AI businesses and train Bahraini tech innovators

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Parliament yesterday backed a proposal urging Tamkeen to put money into artificial intelligence businesses, agreeing that Bahrain should not fall behind in a field rapidly changing industries across the world.

The proposal, tabled by Dr Munir Seroor and Ali Saqer, calls for direct support to firms working on AI applications, infrastructure, and training for Bahrainis.

MPs argued that other countries were already well ahead, and Bahrain must act.

“Artificial intelligence is now part of daily life,” Seroor said. “Governments everywhere are laying down the groundwork, and we need to do the same. Bahrain has the skill and ambition, but firms need backing to develop AI tools and bring in texpertise to train our people.”

He added that AI could open doors for Bahrainis in fields where the country has long relied on expat workers.

“If given the right training, Bahrainis could move into cybersecurity, data analysis, AI-driven finance, and smart manufacturing,” he said. “These aren’t jobs that need years of study. With practical training, they can be ready in months.”

Tamkeen, which already funds digital projects through schemes such as “Start Your Business” and “Business Growth”, acknowledged AI’s growing role but pointed to the backing it already provides.

“The speed at which artificial intelligence is advancing is striking,” said Tamkeen chief executive Maha Mufeez. “Tamkeen continues to support businesses looking to adopt AI tools and expand training schemes.”