Following the directives of His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology (MCICT), the Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) announced the launch of the ” Global Digital Twinning for eGovernment Excellence,” part of Bahrain’s pilot programme with the United Nations, the initiative aims to enhance international collaboration by sharing Bahrain’s expertise in digital governance with partner countries to support their goals.
The iGA organised a programme launch chaired by Mohamed Ali Al Qaed, iGA Chief Executive, with representatives from Tunisia and the Comoros in attendance. It showcased Bahrain’s achievements in digital transformation and eGovernment, earning it the 18th position globally in the 2024 UN E-Government Survey and a high ranking on the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI).
Al Qaed showcased Bahrain’s key role in driving the programme’s importance in strengthening Bahrain’s leadership in global digital transformation through cooperation with partner countries. He stressed its potential to drive innovation, improve governance, and expand access to government services worldwide. He hoped that more countries would join, contributing to the shared goal of global digital excellence.
Al Qaed introduced the iGA and showcased success in implementing advanced digital technologies and innovative global best practices. He highlighted over 750 government services available through Bahrain’s portal, bahrain.bh, and the launch of more than 15 mobile apps, including eTraffic, Sehati, and Mawaeed. These are available through the Government App Store at bahrain.bh/apps.
Al Qaed, along with his deputies and directors, discussed key systems driving Bahrain’s digital transformation, including the integration of over 20 national systems that enhance electronic connectivity across government operations. He highlighted the Sijilat system, developed with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, which integrates the government’s licensing and approval processes into a single platform, simplifying procedures for merchants and investors.
Al Qaed also highlighted the Benayat system, which streamlines building permit procedures and boosts investment opportunities in real estate. He mentioned the national appointment system, which allows users to book appointments before visiting service centres, and Tawasul, a channel for citizens and residents to provide feedback. Over 13 services are now available through self-service kiosks, achieving 90% digitalisation, reducing costs by the same percentage, and saving an estimated 68% in time and effort.
Al Qaed demonstrated how the iGA utilises technologies such as cloud computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and big data to improve service quality and systems. He also highlighted the digital strategies, policies, and strategic partnerships with the private sector and international organisations that are advancing Bahrain’s efforts. He emphasised the role of Bahrain’s Open Data Platform, data.gov.bh, in promoting public participation through the availability of accurate and reliable data.
Al Qaed discussed efforts to improve customer service and highlighted the Government Service Centre Evaluation Committee’s role in encouraging government entities to enhance service centres and adopt digital alternatives, improving customer experiences. He also emphasised the Technical Development Programme, a key initiative focused on fostering innovation and developing young talent in the tech sector.
Several iGA officials and directors shared insights into the iGA’s digital transformation, including system development, service reengineering, and data to support these initiatives. They also discussed the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the adoption of advanced technologies. The visiting delegation was also introduced to the procedures of the ID Card Centre and briefed on the iGA’s innovative projects.
Delegates visited several key locations, including the Ministry of Industry and Commerce to showcase the Sijilat system and learn about the Ministry’s projects and programmes. The delegation also visited Bahrain FinTech Bay to gain insight into its leading initiatives, as well as the BENEFIT Company to view the payments system activities.
BNA(R)
