Innovation bridge

Hungarian experts push Bahrain toward long-term data-driven future

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Hungarian data scientists are in Bahrain this week to explore opportunities for long-term expansion and to help local companies strengthen profits through advanced data-driven systems.

Hungary, widely recognised as Europe’s leader in mathematics and data science, views Bahrain as the ideal gateway to the GCC.

The visiting specialists believe the kingdom is perfectly positioned to become the region’s central hub for innovation.

Tamas Hovany, Chairman of the Bahraini Hungarian Business Circle, explained that the initiative aims to build a longterm bridge between the two nations in high-value knowledge sectors.

He noted that the growing cooperation is further strengthened by Bahrain Businessmen’s Association Chairman Ahmed Bin Hindi, with both sides working to establish a more strategic and robust business partnership capable of supporting sustained technological and commercial growth. The scientists stressed that data science is not confined to a single field.

It drives every modern industry, from automotive production to small businesses and, most critically, hospitals.

They described it as the essential ingredient that gives an economy its character, explaining that without data science, no sector can operate effectively in the modern landscape.

Talent

The Hungarian scientists outlined a clear path for Bahrain to cultivate national talent and create a generation of experts.

They explained that real involvement in live projects is the key step, enabling young Bahrainis to eventually become leading specialists.

They emphasised that the journey must begin early, with data science foundations introduced at the elementary level rather than waiting until higher education.

This, they said, must be paired with hands-on experience within local industries to build genuine capability.

They added that Bahrain’s most data-rich sectors, including banking, ports, logistics, healthcare, and telecommunications, can attract strong talent by moving in a unified direction and giving data teams defined responsibilities and room to operate.

Innovation

For startups, reducing the cost of innovation remains vital.

The team highlighted that supportive government policies, particularly data sandboxes, can significantly ease early development.

They also underscored the importance of companies willing to share data responsibly, as well as the value of international cooperation in accelerating progress.

To strengthen Bahrain’s research identity, the scientists recommended the creation of a central government database accessible to academic institutions.

They noted that such a resource would give Bahrain a robust scientific foundation that complements its established business strengths.

They also expressed strong support for a pan GCC ecosystem, explaining that wider regional collaboration can help reduce the hesitation companies often feel when dealing with sensitive data.

Looking ahead, they said Bahrain must develop industry-wide regulation and a unified national data and AI strategy if it is to integrate data science into its long-term plans.

They believe this structured framework will ensure responsible growth and measurable outcomes.

Healthcare

While the main discussions centred on national strategy, Bence Horváth, CEO of Spicy Analytics, briefly highlighted the importance of structured and trustworthy healthcare data.

He emphasised practical tools that can improve staffing, reduce waiting times, and identify high-risk patients, while upholding the ethical transparency required to maintain trust between doctors and patients.

His perspective offered a glimpse into the wider potential of data science across key public services. With these insights, Bahrain stands on the edge of a significant opportunity.

By building its talent pipeline, strengthening regulations, and supporting innovation, the kingdom could transform into the GCC’s primary centre for data science, converting information into knowledge, value, and sustained national growth.