Bahrain, Saudi link Health Passport Information with King Fahd Causeway System

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s efforts to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19 outbreak just got a big boost with the Kingdom and Saudi Arabia jointly introducing and linking King Fahd Causeway travel with a “health passport” system.

The system works using health data from ‘BeAware’ Bahrain and Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority’s ‘Tawakkalna’ apps, said the Information and eGovernment Authority.

Meaning, your eligibility to cross the King Fahd Causeway now depends on the information sourced from the two apps, which has links to the passport system of the two countries and aligns the COVID-19 measures of both Kingdoms.

“This will ease procedures and save the public time and effort, as it provides a comprehensive and accurate database of travellers,” the statement said.

The system, iGA said, ensures that citizens and residents travelling between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia meet the health criteria set by the Kingdoms.

“health passport” is also required for verifications before purchasing flight tickets.

“It will enable King Fahd Causeway employees to immediately inspect travellers’ personal and health data, as well as enhance security and privacy,” iGA added.

The move supports the efforts of the National Taskforce for Combatting the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and is endorsed by iGA Chief Executive Mohammed Ali Al Qaed and SDAIA President Dr Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi.

The deal signing in Riyadh had the presence of Shaikh Hmood bin Abdulla bin Hamad Alkhalifa, the Ambassador of Bahrain to Saudi Arabia and officials from both countries.

“The deal aims to align the COVID-19 measures of both Kingdoms to streamline traffic via the King Fahd Causeway,” said the officials following the deal signing.

“It capitalizes on the technical compatibility of the ‘BeAware’ Bahrain and ‘Tawakkalna’ apps and reflects the close ties of two countries.”

“BeAware Bahrain has contributed to achieving Bahrain’s eParticipation, Digital, and Open Data policies adopted in October,” said Al Qaed, adding, “The aim is to enhance the availability of information and eServices used by various sectors, encourage innovation, and support business.”

Al Qaed thanked His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for rolling out effective COVID-19 initiatives.

Dr Alghamdi said the deployment of technologies would help achieve the highest level of safety for travellers and ease of movement between the two Kingdoms.