Al Qaed highlighted the completion of six initiatives falling under the National Digital Economy Strategy (NDES), overseen by 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 first phase of the strategy includes nine short-term initiatives out of a total of 49 planned through 2030.

Al Qaed emphasized that these initiatives are a reflection of the government’s vision to apply the highest digital standards, foster digital investment, and keep pace with the latest technologies available. Now in action, the strategy ensures integration across entities and sectors, and advances digital transformation aimed at enhancing key services for the public.

A key first-phase initiative is the establishment of an official AI and emerging technologies unit which is now represented by the new Innovation and Advanced Technologies Directorate within the iGA. The Directorate today develops emerging technology policies and supports government entities in adopting AI for national projects and initiatives. 

Another key initiative is the expansion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) scholarships, a project led by the Ministry of Education, which made up over 84% of total scholarships in the 2023/2024 academic year. An initiative addressing NDES requirements in line with the National Cybersecurity Strategy was completed with the National Cybersecurity Center (NCSC), alongside other initiatives by government entities.

Al Qaed noted that these first-phase initiatives are part of the NDES, Bahrain’s first comprehensive digital strategy for the public and private sectors. They support sustainable development across financial services, tourism, industry, IT, logistics and healthcare, contribute to a borderless digital economy, and position Bahrain as a connected and competitive economic hub.

He stated that iGA's strategy implementation team is collaborating with stakeholders to roll out additional initiatives across key sectors in the next coming phase. The team will track performance metrics and make necessary adjustments to ensure progress, evaluating how these initiatives benefit all sectors of the economy.

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