AGP Executive Report

Digital Customer Service: stc Bahrain unveiled Bayan at LEAP 2026, a fully integrated next-gen contact center with Arabic-first voice and digital agents, real-time assistance, and automated quality/sentiment analytics—aiming to resolve up to 70% of routine contacts and cut handling times by up to 30%. IT Operations Transformation: stc Bahrain also signed a partnership with TCS to modernise IT operations, boost automation and managed services, and build a more resilient digital foundation. Engineering & BIM Skills: Applied Science University aligned its architecture and civil engineering tracks with Bahrain’s BIM push, linking 3D BIM with AI and GIS, supported by CIOB global accreditation. AI for Engineering Training: ASU courses offer training in using AI for engineering as part of the wider digital construction shift. Health Insurance Awareness: New studies say Bahrain’s health insurance reform will succeed best with stronger public communication and community outreach, not just new digital platforms. Diabetes Prevention in Schools: RCSI Bahrain trained 91 nursing/medical students to support a Diabetes Mobile Unit that teaches children healthier nutrition habits to reduce obesity and Type 2 diabetes risk. Sustainable Transport Recognition: Bahrain won Gulf awards for sustainable mobility, including a solar sustainability push at Khalifa Bin Salman Port and leadership in green transport. Water Security Tech: A focus on Atmospheric Water Generation highlights a scalable, lower-impact alternative to desalination for Bahrain’s future water needs. Local Industry & Retail: Contratech launched Hitachi’s first flagship HVAC showroom in Isa Town, expanding Japanese cooling and heating services.

Bahrain BIM Education Push: Applied Science University is aligning its Architectural and Civil Engineering programmes with Bahrain’s BIM push, training students for smarter, AI-enabled construction planning and lifecycle management. stc Bahrain Contact Centre Upgrade: stc Bahrain launched “Bayan” at LEAP 2026, a fully integrated Arabic-first contact centre aimed at cutting routine contacts by up to 70% and improving handling times by up to 30%. Sustainable Transport Recognition: Bahrain won two Gulf Green Mobility Forum awards—Khalifa Bin Salman Port for a solar sustainability drive and Fatima Abdullah Al Dhaen for leadership in mobility. Water Security Focus: A new Bahrain spotlight on Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) argues it could complement desalination by producing cleaner water with less strain on marine life. Digital Innovation Awards Panel: Bahrain Association of Banks named an independent judging panel for its Digital Innovation Awards 2026, spanning AI, digital transformation, governance and fintech expertise. Regional Tech-Policy Link: Bahrain’s ambassador to Türkiye joined Arab envoys to discuss boosting higher education and scientific research cooperation. EU-GCC Summit Date Set: EU and GCC leaders will meet in Saudi Arabia on 24 October for the second EU-GCC summit, with trade, energy and research on the agenda. Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Reports say the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial shipping, with vessel traffic far below pre-crisis levels—raising pressure on regional energy logistics.

Sustainable Transport Wins: Bahrain picked up two innovation awards at the Gulf Green Mobility Forum 2026, including Sustainable Organisation for Khalifa Bin Salman Port’s solar and electric equipment upgrades, and Leading Woman in Mobility for the Land Transportation and Postal Affairs team. EU–GCC Cooperation: EU and GCC leaders will meet in Saudi Arabia on 24 October for the second EU-GCC Summit, with climate, energy, research and trade high on the agenda. Bahrain Expo 2030 Move: Bahrain has signed its Participation Contract for Expo 2030 Riyadh, kicking off pavilion planning and a sustainable build intended to remain after the event. AI & Data Centres in the Region: A report highlights UAE and Saudi push to expand AI computing capacity via major data-centre projects, even as facilities face security concerns amid regional tensions. Local Tech Push at LEAP: Tamkeen-backed Bahrain firms are showcasing solutions at LEAP Riyadh, with a stronger focus on B2B matchmaking to turn attendance into deals. Digital Innovation Awards: Bahrain’s Banks Association named an independent judging panel for the second Digital Innovation Awards 2026, spanning AI, digital transformation, governance and fintech. Cybersecurity & Privacy: Serbia’s student activists were reportedly targeted with Pegasus spyware via an iMessage zero-click exploit, with Apple’s iOS 18.4.1 patch cited as a fix. Maritime Safety: Bahrain’s coastguard urged seafarers to follow safety rules, keep AIS on, and carry required gear like life vests, flares and first-aid kits. Underwater AI Idea: One Bahrain-focused piece argues the country could trial underwater data centres to support AI goals while improving climate resilience.

Bahrain Expo 2030 Riyadh: Bahrain has signed its Participation Contract, moving into the planning and delivery phase for its national pavilion, public programme and visitor experiences, with a sustainable structure planned to remain after the event. Rare Disease Tech: Experts at Abu Dhabi’s MENA Congress for Rare Diseases 2026 highlighted how genomics and AI are speeding diagnosis and enabling precision medicine, with Bahrain among the participating countries. Digital Innovation in Bahrain: The Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB) named an independent judging panel for the Digital Innovation Awards 2026, spanning AI, digital transformation, governance and fintech. Bahrain Tech Goes to LEAP Riyadh: Tamkeen-backed Bahrain Pavilion plans B2B matchmaking at LEAP Riyadh with 14 local firms showcasing solutions for regional investors and decision-makers. STC Bahrain IT Overhaul: STC Bahrain partnered with Tata Consultancy Services to modernise IT operations using managed services and automation. Maritime Safety: Bahrain’s Coastguard urged seafarers to follow safety guidance, keep AIS on, check weather, and carry required gear including life vests and VHF radios. Regional Travel Disruption: Renewed US-Iran tensions are driving flight delays and cancellations across the UAE and beyond, with travellers advised to check airline status before flying.

Bahrain Tech Push at LEAP Riyadh: Tamkeen-backed Bahrain Pavilion is sending 14 local tech firms to LEAP Riyadh for B2B matchmaking aimed at landing investors, partnerships and export deals, with companies including ACME, Kanoo IT, STC-linked automation partners and fintech/IT specialists. Enterprise Automation in Bahrain: STC Bahrain has signed with Tata Consultancy Services to modernise its IT operations, adding managed services and advanced automation to build a more agile, resilient digital backbone. AI Strategy Spotlight: A new report highlights Bahrain’s push to embed AI across education and workforce readiness under its national AI policy, while floating a bold idea: using underwater data centres to support AI growth and climate resilience. GCC Food Security Drive: GCC agriculture and food security ministers met in Bahrain to review unified regulations, pesticide and fertiliser frameworks, and Gulf-wide efforts to strengthen supply chains using modern tech and AI in farm management. Energy Tech Watch: Bahrain’s electricity minister toured Middle East Energy 2026 pavilions, reviewing inspection and testing tech plus power and cable solutions. Regional Tech Meets Security: France is set to discuss AI for UN conflict resolution at the Security Council, raising new questions about how AI will shape early warning and crisis management.

Bahrain Tech & Automation: stc Bahrain is stepping up its digital transformation with Tata Consultancy Services to modernise IT operations using managed services and advanced automation, while also signing a UiPath reseller deal to deliver enterprise RPA and workflow automation end-to-end. Regional Tech Showcases: Tamkeen-backed Bahrain Pavilion at LEAP Riyadh will take 14 Bahraini tech firms to meet investors and partners, highlighting local capability growth. Energy Tech in the Spotlight: Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Minister toured Middle East Energy 2026 in Dubai, reviewing power and inspection technologies from Bahraini and international exhibitors. Cyber & Finance Ecosystem: Bank ABC picked up multiple cash management and treasury awards, and BBK is joining Fintech Forward 2026 as a Diamond Sponsor, pushing “intelligent infrastructure” themes. Bahrain’s Security Posture: Bahrain Defence Force said it intercepted and destroyed several Iranian aerial attacks targeting civilians, urging the public to report suspicious objects. AI & Sovereign Cloud Demand: Oracle says Middle East customers want advanced AI with local control, expanding sovereign cloud options across regulated industries. Space Science: China’s Tianwen-3 Mars sample-return mission is progressing smoothly toward prototype development and a planned launch around 2028.

Enterprise Automation in Bahrain: stc Bahrain has signed a strategic reseller partnership with UiPath to deliver enterprise-grade RPA and automation services, aiming to help businesses cut costs and streamline workflows. Fintech Momentum: BBK (Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait) joins Fintech Forward 2026 as a Diamond Sponsor, backing the forum’s theme “Finance in the Age of Intelligent Infrastructure.” Digital Finance Recognition: Bank ABC won multiple Global Finance awards for cash management and liquidity solutions, including “Best Cash Management Bank in Bahrain.” Cyber & Cloud Policy: Qatar’s Cabinet approved a draft cloud computing law and renewed condemnation of renewed Iranian attacks on Bahrain and other Gulf states. Bahrain Air Defence Update: Bahrain’s Defence Force said it intercepted and destroyed several Iranian aerial attacks targeting civilians, urging the public to avoid suspicious objects. Water Security Tech: Bahrain’s climate resilience water-sector project was highlighted as building an integrated scientific and technical foundation for better planning and water management. Regional Energy Pressure: Renewed Iran–US tensions are pushing oil and gas prices higher, raising winter inflation concerns across Europe. GCC Tech Integration: Oman joined GCC justice under-secretaries talks on an electronic platform for exchanging judicial notices and unified rules for IT crimes. AI in Banking Operations: Iron Mountain partnered with Saudi’s Social Development Bank to modernize document-heavy financing using AI-powered intelligent document processing. Web Summit Qatar 2027: Organisers confirmed 70+ global partners for Web Summit Qatar 2027, with Bahrain among the attending trade delegations.

Bahrain Security: Bahrain Defence Force says it intercepted and destroyed several Iranian missile/drone attacks targeting cities, urging residents to report any debris while stressing full readiness. Regional Tech & Policy: Qatar’s Cabinet approved a draft cloud computing law and renewed condemnation of renewed Iranian attacks, while GCC customs leaders met in Bahrain to push a GCC customs data exchange platform and other technology projects. AI in Finance: Iron Mountain partnered with Saudi Social Development Bank to modernize document-heavy SME lending using AI-powered intelligent document processing. AI & Data Centres in the Gulf: A UK–GCC free trade deal is framed as a boost for cross-border data flows, potentially accelerating data centre buildouts as AI demand rises. Education for an AI future: Bahrain MPs urged schools to prepare students for AI while protecting national identity, calling for updated curricula and stronger digital learning. StartUp Bahrain: StartUp Bahrain Pitch crowned Cogman and Luma as winners, continuing momentum for local innovation. Energy & Markets: Oil prices jumped on renewed US-Iran hostilities, with Hormuz transit fears adding inflation pressure across global markets.

Bahrain Startup Spotlight: StartUp Bahrain Pitch crowned AI business management Cogman and digital health Luma, with Tamkeen-backed mentoring and investor judging at the 27th edition. Bahrain Digital Services: NHRA cut medical device and supplies registration paperwork and processing time, moving standard service to 10 working days and express to five, with validity extended to three years. Bahrain Environment Tech: SCE sped up environmental license additions via a new digital service, cutting processing to seven working days and reducing required documents. GCC Health Coordination: GCC health ministers’ preparatory talks in Kuwait focused on medicine stockpiles, health insurance, and modern tech and AI in healthcare ahead of the Sept 6 meeting in Bahrain. Connectivity & Telecom: Bahrain’s telecom push continues as Kuwait and Bahrain discussed expanding communications and technology cooperation, while Accenture and AWS step up cloud and AI in the region. Regional Energy & Industry: Bahrain-Japan energy talks highlighted innovation and efficiency, and Bahrain prepares to host the inaugural Made in GCC 2026 forum showcasing local industrial capabilities. Satellite Internet: Starlink’s UAE licence sets up tougher competition in satellite internet across the region.

StartUp Bahrain Pitch Series: The 27th edition crowned “Cogman” and “Luma” as winners, spotlighting digital and AI-driven startups with mentorship and investor exposure. Digital Economy & AI: Bahrain’s transport and telecom minister highlighted AI and digital transformation at LEAP 2026, stressing partnerships and modern infrastructure to keep Bahrain competitive. Education Policy: Shura Services Committee praised royal support for the 2026-2027 academic year and said legal and executive frameworks must keep pace with evolving education methods. Cloud & AI for the Region: Accenture signed a six-year AWS deal to help Middle East businesses and governments migrate to cloud and deploy AI across sectors like energy and finance. Cybersecurity in Finance: CBB and NCSC ran a workshop on securing financial services data in the AI era, focusing on responsible tech use and rising AI-linked threats. Health Tech Regulation: Bahrain’s NHRA cut medical device registration times and reduced required documents via an upgraded digital service. Energy Cooperation: Bahrain and Japan discussed expanding energy collaboration and investment opportunities, with emphasis on innovation and efficiency. Environment & Biodiversity: Bahrain banned importing, possessing, trading, and breeding mynas and crows to protect native wildlife. Space Cooperation: Turkey signed NASA’s Artemis Accords, joining Bahrain and other regional partners in peaceful lunar exploration. Bahrain Industry Showcase: The inaugural “Made in GCC 2026” Forum and Exhibition (Oct 6–8) will bring Bahraini manufacturers to a regional stage.

Biodiversity Protection: Bahrain has banned the import, possession, sale and breeding of mynas and crows of all species, with a six-month grace period before the rules take effect and penalties of up to six months to a year in jail plus fines of BD500–BD5,000. Cybersecurity for Finance: The Central Bank of Bahrain and the National Cyber Security Centre ran a workshop for financial services professionals on “Securing Financial Services Data in the AI Era,” focusing on AI-driven cyber risks and safer practices. Regional Tech & Security: Bahrain also took part in a GCC strategy workshop to combat cybercrime and AI-related crimes, aiming for a unified regional framework. GCC Industry Push: Bahrain will host the inaugural “Made in GCC 2026” Forum and Exhibition (Oct 6–8), bringing GCC manufacturers together to boost industrial cooperation. Space Cooperation: Bahrain Space Agency chief Dr Mohammed Al Aseeri attended NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launch, highlighting Bahrain’s growing ties with NASA and its Artemis Accords momentum. Aviation Updates: Emirates and other international airlines adjusted Middle East schedules, with multiple Bahrain-linked flights delayed or suspended—passengers are urged to check flight status before travel.

AI Infrastructure Shift: San Francisco’s Together AI is partnering with Saudi AI firm Humain for access to 250MW of electricity from Saudi data centers, as the kingdom pushes to become an AI hub amid backlash in the US. Bahrain Environment Policy: Bahrain bans importing, possessing, trading, and breeding myna birds and crows under a 2026 Supreme Council for Environment decision, with jail and fines for violations. Space & Science Links: Bahrain Space Agency CEO Dr Mohammed Al Aseeri attended NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launch, highlighting Bahrain’s Artemis Accords-driven cooperation. Health Research: Emmaus Life Sciences signed an exclusive option agreement with Cedars-Sinai to keep evaluating L-glutamine oral powder with chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer, building on Nature Cancer results. Gulf Transport Tech: Gulf Air launched a new Falcon Gold Business Class amenity kit with French skincare brand Payot. Digital Services in Bahrain: LMRA digitalised Golden Residency work permit renewals, cutting processing to an immediate automated step. Smart Mobility: Bahrain saw speeding offences drop 67.1% since 2021, credited to smart cameras and enforcement. Regional Energy & Security: US Central Command says it cleared Iranian mines from key Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes, though the waterway remains under severe threat guidance. Upcoming Regional Tech Event: Bahrain will host MEOS GEO 2027 (14–16 Sep 2027) in Manama, with an executive committee meeting held in August 2026. AI in Finance: Bahrain Commercial Facilities Company upgraded its Sahel app AI assistants “Suhail” and “Suhaila” to guide customers through financing applications end-to-end.

Bahrain Space & Global Science: Bahrain Space Agency CEO Dr Mohammed Al Aseeri attended NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launch at Kennedy Space Centre, highlighting growing BSA–NASA ties and Bahrain’s Artemis Accords push. Energy Talent Pipeline: Bapco Energies wrapped up its NextGen Power Camp for 100 Grade 11 students under the NBH Future Energy Leaders programme, mixing workshops, mentorship and hands-on learning. AI in Bahrain’s Fintech: Bahrain Commercial Facilities Company upgraded its Sahel app AI assistants “Suhail” and “Suhaila,” aiming for faster, more context-aware financing journeys. Digital Residency Services: LMRA launched an enhanced digital work permit renewal for Golden Residency holders, cutting processing to an immediate automated flow and reducing steps and documents. Smart Cities & Mobility: Municipal officials called for intelligent traffic signals that adjust to real-time traffic, and launched a BIM pilot to speed building permits using 3D digital models. Road Safety Tech Impact: Speeding offences in Bahrain fell 67.1% over four years, credited to smart cameras and stricter enforcement. Public Safety & Community: ICRF Bahrain finished its 11th “Thirst-Quenchers 2026” heat-safety campaign, reaching 4,500 outdoor workers. International Recognition: Former Bahrain resident Meera Tamboli was named among the Top 20 Cybersecurity Women of the World 2026. Regional Tech-Policy Watch: Bahrain chairs GCC cybersecurity controls meeting, while the US updates travel advisories citing Iran-linked risks.

Smart Traffic Upgrade: Bahrain municipal officials are pushing for intelligent traffic signals that detect real-time traffic and adjust timings, citing congestion caused by fixed cycles and unnecessary flashing phases. Digital Permits Boost: Bahrain has launched a pilot Building Information Modelling (BIM) project with iGA to speed building permits by using 3D digital models for automated design checks and compliance reviews, starting in Diyar Al Muharraq, Salman City and BIIP. Road Safety Results: Speeding offences in Bahrain fell 67.1% over four years, dropping to about a third of 2021 levels, with smart cameras and tougher enforcement credited. Youth & Tech Awareness: The Shura Council hosted “Joy of Knowledge” participants to learn how Bahrain’s legislative process works, while the “Al Freej” neighbourhood festival blends heritage with tech and space activities for youth. Cybersecurity Spotlight: Former Bahrain resident Meera Tamboli was named among the Top 20 Cybersecurity Women of the World 2026, after building a large online community and mentoring thousands. AI-Ready Infrastructure in Africa: MTN partnered with a UAE data-centre investment platform to expand AI-ready digital infrastructure across Africa, starting with South Africa and Nigeria. Hormuz Update: Iran says the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed until US commitments are fulfilled, while the US claims mine routes are now cleared. Bahrain in the News: Bahrain’s traffic, permits, and youth-tech initiatives are driving the week’s local tech momentum.

Cybersecurity Spotlight: Former Bahrain resident Meera Tamboli, now London-based, was named among the Top 20 Cybersecurity Women of the World 2026, after years of mentoring and building a large online community. Smart Mobility: Municipal officials in Bahrain are pushing for intelligent traffic signals that detect real-time traffic volumes instead of fixed timing cycles. Digital Permits: Bahrain launched a pilot Building Information Modelling (BIM) project with iGA to speed up building permits by using 3D digital models for automated design checks and compliance reviews. Public Safety & Health: ICRF Bahrain wrapped its 11th “Thirst-Quenchers 2026” summer drive, delivering heat-safety support to 4,500 outdoor workers across 11 weekly sessions. Cyber Policy (GCC): Bahrain chaired the GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity meeting, focusing on unified Gulf approaches and stronger cyber readiness. Stablecoins in Bahrain: Solowin Holdings became the first Central Bank of Bahrain-licensed stablecoin issuer under the new framework, aiming for institutional-grade on-chain settlement. Space Connectivity: The UAE granted Starlink a 10-year satellite network licence, formalising space-based broadband alongside fibre and 5G. Regional Tech & Security: The US updated travel advisories for Bahrain and four other Middle East countries, citing security risks linked to Iran.

Bahrain Airport Drug Bust: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry says eight people were arrested in two cases after attempts to smuggle over 17kg of narcotics through Bahrain International Airport, with an estimated market value of BD235,500; suspects were caught at the airport and inside the Kingdom, and cases are now headed to the Public Prosecution. GCC Cybersecurity Push: Bahrain hosted the fifth GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity meeting, where GCC members adopted the GCC Guiding Essential Cybersecurity Controls and GCC Guiding Data Cybersecurity Controls, aiming to strengthen coordination and digital protection across the region. Bahrain Stablecoin Milestone: Solowin Holdings’ Bahrain unit (AX Coin Bahrain) became the first stablecoin issuer licensed under the Central Bank of Bahrain framework in June, with the firm positioning stablecoins as compliant, programmable on-chain settlement tools. UAE Space Connectivity: The UAE granted Starlink a 10-year licence to run a public satellite broadband network, adding a regulated space layer to the country’s fibre and 5G infrastructure. Iran War Tech & Policy: Multiple reports focus on Iran’s hard-line leadership tightening control and warning of “seismic” retaliation, while sanctions and cyber threats remain central themes. Tourism & Heritage in Bahrain: The Al Fareej Festival kicked off across Bahrain’s governorates, mixing heritage crafts and games with tech and entertainment for families and youth.