Shaping Bahrain’s digital destiny: MPs to debate national AI strategy

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Parliament will on Tuesday debate a proposal for a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aimed at establishing a dedicated AI Centre, drawing investment, and building Bahraini expertise to improve public services and drive economic growth.

The initiative, submitted by MP Dr Munir Seroor, calls for a national plan to integrate AI across Bahrain’s fastest-growing sectors, supported by investor incentives, training programmes, and clear governance rules to ensure safe and responsible use.

Supporters say the strategy would help del i v e r faster government services, create quality jobs for Bahrainis, boost investment, expand revenue sources, and promote sustainable development.

The Economic Development Board backs broader AI adoption, stressing coordination with the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) to achieve tangible results. The Ministry of Finance and National Economy says the proposal aligns with the Government Programme’s focus on digital transformation and job creation. It cited existing examples such as advanced data modelling at the ministry, Bahrain Polytechnic’s AI Academy, youth innovation contests, and AI-based urban monitoring at the Survey and Land Registration Bureau.

AI is a core part of the National Digital Economy Strategy under the Communications, IT and Digital Economy Strategy, and is being developed as an enabling pillar of Bahrain Economic Vision 2050. The iGA has already issued a National AI Policy and Ethics Guide.

The Ministry of Cabinet Affairs highlighted the need for strong public–private collaboration, while the Nasser Centre for Science and Technology said a unified AI plan would raise competitiveness, enhance service quality, attract investment, and create new employment opportunities.