Bahrain witnessed in 2023 a significant shift towards digitalization in its government services, resulting in numerous benefits. According to Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, chief executive of Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), approximately 10.4 million government transactions were conducted through digital channels, leading to an impressive 85 percent reduction in operational costs for the government and significant time savings.
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Throughout the year, the iGA developed 66 new eServices, expanding the comprehensive suite of government eServices available through digital channels to over 680. Additionally, 16 national electronic systems in Bahrain witnessed an 89 percent increase in transaction rates, showcasing the effectiveness of the digital transformation efforts.
During a press conference held at the iGA’s headquarters, Al Qaed emphasized the commitment to implementing digital strategies and initiatives that align with the goals of Bahrain’s Vision 2030. The iGA aims to achieve comprehensive digital transformation and support the kingdom’s long-term vision, he added.
Key focuses
One of the key focuses of the iGA in 2023 was to enhance user experience and advance the digital transformation of government services. Al Qaed highlighted the iGA’s dedication to the directives of General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology (MCICT). The iGA also collaborated with other government entities, resulting in the introduction of new eServices.
The achievements of the iGA in 2023 included project launches, digital infrastructure development, and notable progress in automating government services. The ultimate goal further remains the continuous launch of accessible electronic services that cater to different segments of the population.
Successful initiatives and enhancements by iGA
The year 2023 witnessed a significant acceleration in Bahrain’s digital transformation journey. The iGA successfully launched multiple initiatives, enhanced government systems, and improved electronic channels. Notably, the national portal, Bahrain.bh, underwent a complete redesign, introducing the latest version. Additionally, the National Suggestions and Complaints System (Tawasul) received multiple features, and a redesigned version of the government services directory was launched.
The iGA also introduced the national appointment system, Mawaeed, which serves as a unified platform for booking appointments at government service centers. Furthermore, the National Payment Platform integrated 395 new services and underwent four upgrades, including the introduction of a multi-payment system, a QR-Code payment balance service, and collaboration with other government entities to offer payment services like Apple Pay and BenefitPay.
Furthermore, several notable eServices were launched in various sectors, including security and safety, healthcare, real estate, justice and courts, education, social welfare, civil affairs, business and investments, and electricity and water.
Fostering sustainable digital transformation
The iGA’s commitment to national digital initiatives and sustainable digital transformation is aligned with the government’s program for the years 2023 to 2026. Dr Zakaria Ahmed Al Khaja, the Deputy Chief Executive of Electronic Transformation at the iGA, emphasized the organization’s use of advanced technologies to provide accessible digital services across platforms in collaboration with other government entities.
Through studies, procedure reengineering, consultations, and 94 national initiatives, the iGA achieved a remarkable 65 percent reduction in transaction times for government services. Moreover, the national portal received 19 million visits, resulting in a 95 percent cost reduction for citizens and residents, with estimated time savings of approximately 70 percent. Simplified procedures and the availability of digital channels enabled seamless transactions through the national portal and other digital platforms.
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