Internet for All in Bahrain

Ever wonder how the Kingdom of Bahrain stays so connected? It's simple and efficient! Bahrain offers robust internet through both mobile and fixed broadband connections, ensuring seamless access for all with 100% of the population having access to the Internet as per the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) report. Bahrain has always been at the forefront of liberalization of the telecommunications sector among the Arab countries. Bahrain's telecommunications strategies have effectively enhanced digital affordability, security, and accessibility to all demographics, including the elderly, promoting a universally inclusive digital society.  Bahrain achieved Nationwide 5G services, becoming one of the first countries in the world, with 5G download speeds exceeding 2Gbps (2020), and more than 95% of fiber rollout across the Kingdom (2023), those achievements contributed to Bahrain’s Infrastructure Readiness which enabled citizens to have exceptional connectivity experience.

In addition, the youth of Bahrain are very active in using social media and maintain an active gaming community. Also, Bahrain is committed to enlightening the nation’s youth about issues that directly impact them. The Bahrain Internet Society has played an important role in the development of the Internet in the country.

Bahrain's Vision for a Digital Future

The Kingdom of Bahrain is steadfast in its pursuit of becoming a "Smart Kingdom" and a dominant Information & Communication Technology (ICT) hub in the region, aligning itself with the Economic Vision 2030 (PDF, 278KB, 26 pages). The Kingdom has undertaken significant initiatives to facilitate ICT investment and develop a skilled workforce through specialized training programs. In 2002, the Telecommunication Law (PDF, 663KB, 60 pages) was enacted, setting the stage for a robust telecommunications sector. Simultaneously, the government introduced its inaugural Telecommunication Plan, charting a strategic path for sector growth.

The establishment of the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) marked a pivotal moment, as it became the official entity responsible for overseeing the National Telecommunications Plan's implementation and regulating the telecommunications market through policies and control measures to ensure service quality. The establishment of the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) marked a pivotal moment, as it became the official entity responsible for regulating the telecommunications sector in Bahrain. The TRA's primary objectives include promoting competition, ensuring the provision of high-quality and affordable telecommunications services, protecting consumer interests, and fostering the development of the telecommunications infrastructure. By creating a fair and transparent regulatory environment, the TRA aims to encourage investment and innovation in the sector, ultimately contributing to Bahrain's economic growth and digital transformation

Connecting Everyone to High-Speed Internet

Bahrain is making waves in telecommunications, securing an impressive 7th place globally and 3rd amongst Arab regions in the ICT Development Index 2023 (IDI) as reported by ITU. The country boasts remarkable ICT indicators that put the country among the top-developed countries in telecommunication development.

In line with the Digital Empowerment initiative (PDF, 9.75MB, 44 pages), Bahrain is taking significant steps to connect all educational institutions, ensuring internet access for every student and educator, whether in public or private schools, universities, or other educational facilities. This initiative underlines Bahrain's dedication to digital inclusion and equal access to education and technology for all.

SafeSurf Initiative

SafeSurf Bahrain is an initiative by TRA Bahrain dedicated to empowering the citizens & residents of Bahrain and their families with knowledge & information for a safer cyber environment to ensure safe access for all.

Telecommunications Highlights in Bahrain

• Bahrain is the first Gulf country to adopt a nation-wide ‘cloud-first’ policy.
• Bahrain achieved the top position globally in Network Infrastructure & Internet 1+users in the 2021 Inclusive Internet Index.
• As a founding member of the Digital Cooperation Organization, Bahrain is dedicated to advancing digital cooperation, enabling prosperity for all, and addressing the challenges posed by the global pandemic.
• Bahrain became a member of the International Telecommunications Union Council in 2022 and committed to 10 pledges as part of the ITU Partner to Connect Global Coalition.
• Bahrain achieved 100% 5G commercial network coverage (2022)
• Bahrain ranks first in 5G gaming performance (2024)
• Bahrain is the 5th global ranking and 3rd in the Arab region on the ITU’s ICT Development Index (2024).
• Bahrain is a member in the ​​​​​​​​​​​​ ITU Secretary-General's Youth Advisory Board.​​​ The board provides diverse youth perspectives, and concrete recommendations to enhance worldwide cooperation in bridging the digital divide, “connecting the unconnected" and aligning ITU's programs with the Sustainable Development Goals (2024).
• Bahrain is a member of the ITU Digital Innovation Board for three years, which provides strategic guidance, expertise, and advocacy regarding its mission of building critical local enablers and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in digital development, to create a more inclusive and equitable digital future for all. (2024)

In line with Bahrain's digital advancements in the telecom sector, the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT) has made significant strides in enhancing customer experience through the development of user-friendly portals across its diverse sectors. These portals enable seamless application and renewal processes for licenses and permits, as well as the convenient payment and tracking of applications. By digitizing these services, the MTT has empowered customers with the ability to apply online at any time, 24/7. This digital transformation has not only streamlined processes but also increased accessibility and convenience for customers, aligning with Bahrain's commitment to digital innovation.