Bahrain Moves to Enable ID Cards as Travel Documents
During the visit, HE the Interior Minister emphasized that the introduction of innovative digital technologies and the facilitation of secure government services reflect Bahrain's progressive and creative approach. He credited these advancements to the comprehensive national development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He further highlighted Bahrain's standing among the leading nations in the United Nations E-Government Development Index, attributing it to the country's commitment to digital transformation and enhanced government service efficiency.
As part of these initiatives, HE the Interior Minister directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) to coordinate efforts for enabling ID cards to function as travel documents. This initiative involves integrating information between ID cards and passports while engaging with other countries for their recognition as valid travel credentials.
A key highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the new self-service center, aligned with the government's 2023-2026 digital transformation strategy. The center features six self-service platforms that provide various government services, including identity data updates and electronic payment options, ensuring accessibility and convenience for citizens around the clock.
HE the Interior Minister also inspected the progress of the ID Card Service Centre and received a briefing on the ID card development phases. The newly introduced advanced ID card incorporates cutting-edge technology, enhanced security features, and a modernized design that aligns with international standards.
Furthering Bahrain's commitment to innovation, the minister inaugurated a pioneering national laboratory dedicated to developing prototypes for government solutions. This innovation lab aims to foster creativity within the public sector, enhance technical capabilities, build national expertise, and strengthen Bahrain's position as a regional leader in emerging technologies. Among its key initiatives is the enhancement of the 'Tawasul' system using artificial intelligence to improve service efficiency.
Concluding his visit, HE the Interior Minister commended the Information & eGovernment Authority for its milestones in digital transformation and its continued efforts to provide efficient and reliable e-services for citizens and residents. He acknowledged the pivotal role of these projects in strengthening Bahrain's technological advancements and expressed gratitude to the authority's CEO and teams for their innovative contributions to the nation's digital progress.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Tribune
11 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Tech Awards Close Soon
TDT| Manama With just over a week left to go, Bahrain's Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) has reminded innovators, government entities, private firms, and individuals to submit their entries for the 2025 edition of the eGovernment Excellence Award before the deadline on Sunday, July 13th. The award recognises outstanding digital initiatives across the Kingdom and has become a leading national platform to highlight innovation, digital transformation, and public service enhancement. Categories across sectors This year's award categories reflect Bahrain's evolving digital priorities. Public and private entities can compete in categories including Best Website, Best Practice in eParticipation, Best Integrated eServices, Best Work Environment for Digital Innovation, Best Utilization of Artificial Intelligence, and Best Project for Digital Transformation. In addition, the private sector has a dedicated category for Best Applications for Smart Devices, while individuals can compete for the Best Digital Initiative Award. The iGA noted that the deadline extension was granted in response to participant requests, allowing extra time for applicants to meet submission requirements. Entries must be submitted through the official portal at Showcasing innovation By spotlighting digital projects that improve the quality and accessibility of public services, the award serves as a reflection of Bahrain's long-term digital vision. It not only recognises high-impact technologies but also positions the Kingdom's achievements on regional and global stages.
Daily Tribune
11 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain, UAE reaffirm strong ties and joint progress
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the United Arab Emirates President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, discussed the deep-rooted relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the UAE, as well as the strong bonds that unite their peoples. This came as HM the King met with HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed at His Majesty's residence in Abu Dhabi as part of his visit to the UAE. Discussions focused on the close cooperation and joint work between the two countries, as well as means to further advance relations in support of their shared interests and aspirations for continued progress, development, and prosperity. The meeting was attended by HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HM the King's Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, National Security Advisor; and HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS), President of the General Sports Authority (GSA), and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) From the UAE side, the meeting was attended by HH Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs, and HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, along with senior HM the King with HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed officials from both countries.
Daily Tribune
16 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Gulf Anchor
TDT | Manama Bahrain Engages Saudi, US Ambassadors His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Deputy King, met with the ambassadors of Saudi Arabia and the United States yesterday at Riffa Palace, reinforcing Bahrain's position as a trusted partner in both regional and global diplomacy. The separate meetings with His Excellency Naif bin Bandar Al-Sudairi, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, and His Excellency Steven C. Bondy, Ambassador of the United States, underscored Bahrain's close ties with both nations and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and development. Bilateral strength In his meeting with the Saudi envoy, His Royal Highness reaffirmed the enduring strength of Bahrain–Saudi relations, rooted in historical ties and sustained by growing cooperation across multiple sectors. HRH credited the guidance of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for driving this partnership forward, and highlighted the support of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. His Royal Highness noted that joint initiatives and multisectoral cooperation between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia continue to expand, reflecting the two kingdoms' alignment on regional priorities. Strategic alliance Later that day, HRH the Deputy King met with the US Ambassador, HE Steven C. Bondy. During the meeting, His Royal Highness praised the historical partnership between Bahrain and the United States, reinforced by agreements such as the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA). HRH described C-SIPA as a key framework in advancing cooperation across multiple domains. His Royal Highness also stressed the critical role of the United States, together with its partners, in supporting regional security and sustainable development efforts. Discussions included regional and global issues of common interest. Shared priorities In both meetings, His Royal Highness highlighted Bahrain's commitment to deepening ties with its strategic allies and supporting stability and progress in the region. The presence of HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, at both engagements further reinforced the significance of the diplomatic consultations. These twin meetings on the same day reflect Bahrain's active diplomatic engagement and its growing role as a convening space for strengthening international cooperation.
