Turbocharged Internet: The Middle Eastern Gigabit Revolution
As the Middle East continues to advance its broadband infrastructure, the potential for a fully connected, high-speed future seems imminent.
As the Middle East continues to advance its broadband infrastructure, the potential for a fully connected, high-speed future seems imminent.
BNET has launched a project to transition all copper internet networks in Bahrain to ultra-high-speed fiber networks. This initiative aims to migrate all copper customers to fiber, enhancing internet speeds and reliability for individuals and businesses, and aligning with Bahrain’s Sixth National Telecommunications Plan (NTP6).
iGA and Beyon Connect are launching an enhanced eKey system in Bahrain, incorporating advanced technologies and AI to provide secure, seamless digital service access. The new system aims to improve security and user experience for public and private sectors, set to launch by the end of the year.
stc Bahrain has been recognized as the ‘Most Innovative Digital Solutions Brand’ at the Global Brand Awards 2024 in Bangkok. This award highlights stc Bahrain’s commitment to driving digital transformation in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 through cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions.
Bahrain’s mobile phone market grew significantly in Q1 2024, with 34,000 new subscriptions, increasing the total to 2.44 million, a 13.8% rise from Q1 2023. The mobile phone penetration rate rose from 136% to 155%, driven by the widespread use of smartphones. Prepaid subscriptions grew by 7.7%, reaching 1.55 million.
HQ by Hope, Bahrain’s largest co-working space, has partnered with Zain Bahrain to support the growth of Bahrain’s entrepreneurial community. This collaboration aims to empower startups and SMEs through flexible workspaces, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive business support, fostering innovation and creating a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bahrain.
Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) won the Champion Award at the UN’s World Summit on the Information Society for revamping the National Portal (bahrain.bh). The portal features user personalization, government notifications, and multiple payment methods, enhancing access to over 1,300 government services and 680+ eServices.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of Bahrain has set new targets for BNET to ensure timely fibre service deployment. Residential properties must receive fibre within 10 days of a request, and businesses within 30 days. Amwaj will be included in future expansions.
Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) has partnered with Thales to revamp the kingdom’s ID card system, enhancing biometric and security features and aligning with global digital standards. This initiative supports Bahrain’s 2030 Economic Vision and aims to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.
The 13th Bahrain National Robotics Competition, themed ‘Allies of the Earth’, has started under the patronage of HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Organized by the Ministry of Education and Britus Education, the event aims to enhance students’ skills in robotics and AI, with 364 participants from 118 teams.