In a significant move, Bahrain has launched a comprehensive national policy to govern the use of artificial intelligence (AI), reinforcing its commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and responsible technology use.

Under the directives of General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information Technology and Communication (MCICT), Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) introduced the National Policy for the Use of Artificial Intelligence. Alongside this, the country adopted the Guiding Manual on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Use in the GCC, issued by the Ministerial Committee for eGovernment of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The policy aligns with key national laws, including the Personal Data Protection Law, the Protection of Information and State Documents Law, and the Open Data Policy. It is available at www.iga.gov.bh and outlines a strategic framework to ensure AI supports national development goals while adhering to ethical standards.

iGA Chief Executive Mohammed Ali Al Qaed said the initiative aims to “promote the responsible and secure use of AI to drive economic and social growth, while improving government efficiency across key sectors.”

He emphasized the importance of public sector awareness and capacity-building, noting that “government entities in Bahrain are committed to integrating AI into public services in a practical, systematic way to unify and regulate related initiatives and investments.”

The policy is structured around four core pillars: legal compliance, responsible AI use, public education, and international cooperation. The accompanying manual reinforces shared Gulf values and ethical principles, such as fairness, privacy, and human dignity.

“This integrated approach,” the iGA stated, “promotes responsible, effective AI use, supports digital transformation, builds public trust, and advances the kingdom’s goal of becoming an innovative, sustainable digital nation.”