In Bahrain, the technology and telecommunications landscape is shaped by its unique geographic and demographic characteristics. Being relatively small with its population largely concentrated in urban areas, particularly Manama and Muharraq, has enabled focused and efficient infrastructure development. The government, through its 'Cloud First' policy, leverages innovative solutions like cloud computing for public sector modernisation. The telecommunications sector is highly developed and competitive with significant infrastructure investments. Challenges such as cybersecurity have been tackled with robust regulatory frameworks and the creation of Bahrain’s National Cybersecurity Centre. Bahrain's unique characteristics have fostered a dynamic, innovative and resilient technology and telecommunications ecosystem.

ITU Region
Region-1
Geographic Region
Regulatory Body
Directorate of Wireless Licensing, Frequency and Monitoring
Bahrain on the world map

Mobile Network Operators

The are 3 companies operating mobile networks in this region.

Batelco Bahrain Logo

Bahrain Telecommunication Company BSC, widely recognised as Batelco, is the primary telecommunications company operating in Bahrain. Batelco was established in 1981 with its headquarters situated in Bahrain, where it continues to maintain its principal operations. The company is publicly traded and listed on the Bahrain Bourse. The current Chairman of the Board is Abdulla Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, marking the company's corporate leadership. As a significant player in the telecommunications sector, Batelco is one of the five Internet service providers in Bahrain.

Country
STC Logo

STC Bahrain, previously known as VIVA Bahrain, is a telecommunications company established in Bahrain. The company was founded in 2009 when the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain (TRA) awarded the third mobile network operating license to the Saudi Telecom Company (STC Group). The license was acquired through a bid worth BD 86.7 Million (US$231 Million). STC Bahrain commenced its commercial operations in March 2010, operating under the name VIVA Bahrain. In December 2019, the company reverted to its original name, STC Bahrain. The company's headquarters are located in Manama...

Country
Zain Logo
Zain Bahrain is a telecommunications company that operates in Bahrain. The company was established in 2003 when the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of Bahrain ended the monopoly of Batelco in the sector. This was a major step in the liberalisation of the telecommunications market in the country, as it marked the entry of a new player in the industry. Zain Bahrain was initially known as MTC Vodafone before it rebranded itself. Zain Bahrain is a part of the Zain Group, a leading mobile telecommunications provider in the Middle East and Africa. The parent company is based in Kuwait...
Country
Wireless Spectrum Bands