iGA and Thales sign an agreement to revamp ID card system
11 May 2024
In line with efforts to implement the directives of His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology (MCICT), the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) signed an agreement with Thales, a global technology leader, to comprehensively revamp Bahrain’s ID card system.
The agreement was signed by iGA Chief Executive, Mohammed Ali Al Qaed and Thales Vice President and Head of Identity & Biometric Solutions Domain — Middle East and Saudi Arabia, Yousaf Ghous in the presence of iGA directors and other officials.
Al Qaed mentioned that this agreement, highlights the Authority dedication to the government’s vision to develop Bahrain’s digital infrastructure, and the authority’s keenness to partner with international tech leaders in support of the Kingdom’s development. He underscored the iGA’s commitment to the directives of His Excellency, the Minister of Interior to advance digital transformation and government services, including ID card services, which will ultimately expedite processes and facilitate data exchange among government entities.
He highlighted that the agreement follows an extensive study by the Authority on ID card system renewal procedures, which are aimed at providing more efficient services. The study emphasized the necessity of adopting modern and sustainable technology which will offer cost-reduction benefits, including to printing system support and maintenance expenses. These benefits will help secure medium and long-term savings.
Al Qaed revealed that the agreement will see comprehensive changes to ID card printing systems. In addition to improving the design and quality of ID cards, premium features such as biometric and security features will be enhanced. Al Qaed stressed that the upgraded ID card system will align with the latest technologies and meet global standards for digital transformation.
Ghous, said: “We are pleased to partner with the iGA in an endeavor that aligns with our mission to develop advanced solutions and products for public and private entities, enhancing their service quality. The ID card system revamp is one of many digital initiatives the iGA anticipates this year to improve customer satisfaction among citizens, residents, business owners, and organizations. This project reflects Thales’s unwavering commitment to a safer and more sustainable world with secure identities for all. We proudly support Bahrain's 2030 Economic Vision to transition towards a more digitally driven, knowledge-based economy.”
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