From Passport to Phone: Bahrain Taps Finland’s Expertise on e-Travel IDs

TDT | Manama

Email : ashen@newsofbahrain.com

As part of Bahrain’s drive to modernize government services and fast-track its digital transformation, a high-level delegation led by His Excellency Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs, has completed an official visit to Finland – a global trailblazer in digital identity systems.

The visit comes under the directives of His Excellency Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, and reflects Bahrain’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve by aligning with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) vision to digitize travel documents.

In a series of high-level meetings with Finnish officials, including Mr. Matti Sarasmaa, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of the Interior, and Mr. Ilkka Koskimäki, National Police Commissioner, both sides explored avenues for collaboration on digital travel identity projects. The talks centered on adopting international and European standards to ensure secure, seamless, and future-ready solutions for travelers.

During the visit, Bahrain’s delegation gained firsthand insights into Finland’s cutting-edge approach to digital travel identity – from system architecture and security protocols to implementation roadmaps and operational benchmarks. These insights are expected to shape the rollout of Bahrain’s own digital ID system.

Shaikh Hisham praised Finland’s innovation and reaffirmed Bahrain’s determination to adopt global best practices in passport and identity management. “This collaboration marks a significant leap forward in our digital transformation journey. By embracing digital travel identities, we aim to deliver smarter, faster, and more convenient services to citizens and residents alike,” he said.

Looking ahead, the envisioned system would allow Bahraini citizens to travel using secure digital IDs stored on their smartphones – turning tedious airport procedures into smooth, tech-enabled experiences.

The visit not only reflects Bahrain’s ambitions to lead in smart governance but also lays the foundation for a digitally connected future – where travel is not only faster but smarter.