HE Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, opened the Middle East Technology and Telecommunications Conference (MEET ICT) and the Bahrain International Technology Exhibition (BITEX 2026), held under the theme "AI: Driving the Digital Economy of Tomorrow".
The events are organised by the Bahrain Technology Companies Society in cooperation with WorkSmart for Events Management, with the participation of officials, experts and representatives of companies and institutions in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
HE Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain continues to strengthen a competitive, innovation-driven digital economy by investing in digital infrastructure and adopting modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to support sustainable development and reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a regional technology and innovation hub.
In his opening address, he said that AI is reshaping economies and transforming various sectors, including the delivery of government services. He empahsised the importance of using these technologies responsibly, safely and inclusively, with people and their progress at the centre of this transformation.
The Transportation Minister noted that Bahrain continues to develop a future-ready digital economy, supported by advanced digital infrastructure, forward-looking policies and investment in human capital. He added that the ministry is currently developing its AI strategy to support the Kingdom’s digital transformation.
He also emphasised the importance of providing secure, resilient and high-capacity communications networks as a foundation for harnessing the potential of AI, cloud computing and emerging technologies.
For his part, Shaikh Ahmed bin Isa bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Assistant Undersecretary for Telecommunications at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, highlighted the importance of continuing to develop telecommunications infrastructure and strengthening the readiness of digital networks to keep pace with rapid technological advances. This would enable the use of modern technologies, support innovation and expand investment opportunities in the digital economy.
The conference and exhibition will discuss AI applications, digital transformation and the role of emerging technologies in developing businesses and services. They will also showcase the latest technological solutions and explore opportunities for cooperation and partnerships among participating organisations.
HE Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed toured the exhibition stands, where he reviewed the latest technologies and digital solutions presented by participating organisations and heard explanations of their applications in AI, telecommunications and digital transformation.
BITEX 2026 is being held alongside MEET ICT, with the participation of companies and institutions specialising in information and communications technology. They are showcasing their latest products and digital solutions and highlighting innovations that contribute to improving services and strengthening the competitiveness of the digital economy.
Last Updated Date: 27-10-2026
