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Al Qaed expressed his gratitude and appreciation to His Excellency General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology, for inaugurating these projects.
The Chief Executive’s remarks been made during a press conference held by the iGA on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at its Premises in Isa Town showcasing the details of the strategic projects, including the launch of the revamped identity card, the Innovation Hub, and the Self-Service Center.

During the press conference, Al Qaed expressed his pride in these strategic projects, which align with the Authority’s continuous efforts to enhance digital transformation and leverage technology to deliver more efficient and seamless services for citizens and residents.

The Authority Chief Executive emphasized that the fully revamped ID card represents a significant transformation in the delivery of government services. Designed with the highest security standards and modern technologies, the card facilitates transactions and enhances digital integration across various entities.

Al Qaed noted that the Innovation Hub creates an experimental space for developing smart solutions and fostering creative ideas to improve government services. With regards to the 3rd initiative “The new Self-Service Center in Isatown premises”is is established to provide citizens and residents with more efficient access to services through a collection of self-service kiosks in a single
location, enabling them to complete their government transactions effortlessly especially the ID card chip update
Al Qaed highlighted the success of previously installed self-service kiosks across government entities and post offices, which recorded over 193,000 completed transactions in 2024. With the launch of the new center operating 24/7, access to these services will become even more convenient.

Deputy Chief Executive of Electronic Transformation at (iGA) Mr. Ali Abdulaziz Janahi, detailed the features of the revamped identity card, stating that it was fully developed in compliance with the latest international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). He noted that Bahrain is the first GCC country to activate the travel application within the identity card chip, in coordination with the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs.

Mr. Janahi also stated that the card also boasts advanced security features, offering expanded capabilities for digital transactions. Made from polycarbonate material, the card is production quality has been enhanced to be resistant of damages, scratches, heat, and environmental factors. He also mentioned that the personal data is laser-engraved, which make the ID card even more secured. He added that photo requirement now is white to be in line with passport photo requirement.

The press conference highlighted the cultural and historical elements details embedded in the new ID card design as it reflects Bahrain’s rich history spanning over 3,000 years, from the Sumerian civilization and the ancient Dilmun era, to the Kingdom’s marine heritage and wildlife, including pearling and fishing—which were once key pillars of the economy. The design also incorporates symbols representing Bahrain’s modern landmarks and cultural identity.

The Director of Identity and Population Registry at iGA Sh. Subah bin Hamad Al Khalifa elaborated on the ID card photo requirement and Self-Service Center’s features. He explained that the center provides users with multiple self-service devices that facilitate such as Identity card-related services, including chip reader services and chip updates, eKey services (eKey 1), including registration, advanced eKey activation, and password reset for those who have not yet registered with the upgraded eKey 2.0, Government notification service registration, Electronic payment and service transactions through dedicated self-service kiosks.
Sh. Subah highlighted that the introduction of this center will help reduce paper transactions and simplify processes for users, further enhancing Bahrain’s position as a technologically advanced and citizen-centric government.

The iGA’s Director of Innovation and Advanced Technologies Latifa Al Abbasi, provided insights on the Innovation Hub, which is established to promote innovation and digital transformation environment and foster innovation culture in the public sector. The Hub will serve as a platform to develop prototype and pilot solutions that improve service quality and align with global technology trends.

She highlighted also the partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), which will facilitate the development of eight prototype initiatives for various government entities. These includes Enhancing the national complaints and suggestions system (Tawasul) through AI; Upgrading the Sijilat 4.0 system for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce; and Implementing the "Aman Against Bullying" initiative for the Ministry of Education using AI technologies.

Al Abbasi emphasized that collaboration with AWS will accelerate the adoption of AI-driven innovation, providing a testing ground for emerging technologies and enhancing national digital capabilities. Additionally, this initiative strengthens regional and international cooperation, reinforcing Bahrain’s position as a leader in digital innovation.


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