There is tremendous need for the presence of and investment in technology in Bahrain. Having established itself as the GCC's financial center, being connected to the rest of the world is imperative. Bahrain, therefore, is determined to establish and maintain the most sophisticated technological and communications infrastructure in the region, if not the world. A strong telecommunications infrastructure already strong and the entry of world-class IT services from America and elsewhere is on the rise. In addition to Bahrain’s own technological expansion, the presence of leading international corporations in Bahrain necessitates the finest technical capability available today.
Bahrain Telecommunications Company (Batelco), has played a vital role in this rapid development. In 1996, Batelco was the first in the Middle East to receive ISO 9002 certification from the British Standards Institute. Today, Batelco enjoys international reputation as one of the most advanced and progressive providers of telecommunications and information services in the region, a position that grew stronger through an alliance with Cable & Wireless of the UK.
Seizing on this clear and growing opportunity, international IT firms are anticipating the pivotal role Bahrain will play in the coming knowledge economy and are now establishing operations in the country.
Current telecommunications services include:
- 100% digital network including switches and inter-exchange fiber optical links
- Digital international circuits to every business and financial center in the world
- A Facility Management Center installing and maintaining telecommunications equipment
- ISDN, ATM, LANConnect, Frame Relay and VSAT
- GSM mobile and Internet services, with roaming to over 50 countries
- Mobile fax and data service via GSM
