Manama, Bahrain – The Bahrain Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator held its second meeting with the World Economic Forum (WEF) and Co-Chairs from the public and private sectors, marking a key milestone following its launch during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos earlier this year and the subsequent kick-off session, which established the Accelerator’s strategic direction and foundational pillars.

Coordinated by the “Skills Bahrain” initiative and jointly led by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) and the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), the accelerator aims to empower national talent with future-ready skills and advance women’s workforce participation, thereby reinforcing Bahrain’s long-term economic growth and global competitiveness.

The meeting was attended by Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board; and Her Excellency Maha Mofeez, Chief Executive of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), alongside the private sector Co-Chairs: His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Mumtalakat; His Excellency Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chairman of Alba; and Yaser Al Sharifi, Chairman of the Bahrain Association of Banks.

Discussions focused on key findings from the system-level analysis, which provided a data-driven foundation for identifying critical challenges within Bahrain’s skills ecosystem and opportunities to accelerate gender parity. The meeting also aligned stakeholders on priority pathways for the National Action Plan, supported by insights derived in collaboration with the World Economic Forum. Participants further explored practical approaches to address national skills gaps and capitalize on emerging opportunities, while drawing on the best global practices for local adaptation.

Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board, said, ‘Our future-ready talent pool remains the driving force behind the Kingdom’s progress towards fostering a knowledge-driven economy. This collaboration with the World Economic Forum and Skills Bahrain places research-based data and insights at the foundation of this effort – enabling us to track outcomes and shape evidence-based strategies in partnership with the private sector that are directly aligned with Bahrain’s National Action Plan, reflecting our commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and closing the gender parity gap - cementing Bahrain’s earned standing as a trusted destination for investment.”Her Excellency Maha Mofeez, Chief Executive of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), noted that this phase establishes the foundation for a national action plan that strengthens public-private collaboration and responds to evolving labor market dynamics. She emphasized that Tameen remains committed to investing in Bahraini talent development, whilst focusing on empowering women and enhancing their participation in the national workforce.

Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum commented, ‘Bahrain’s Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator demonstrates how data-driven collaboration between government and business can unlock the full potential of the workforce and capitalize on the opportunities presented by a fast-evolving labor market. Ensuring that this transformation is inclusive is critical — and by combining a focus on skills and gender parity, this Accelerator has the potential to drive inclusive impact at scale.’

As the Accelerator transitions into the National Action Plan formulation stage, stakeholders will continue to collaborate with the World Economic Forum and private sector leaders to develop an evidence-based action-oriented framework to bridge skill gaps and promote gender parity across high-growth sectors. This collective effort reinforces Bahrain’s position as a leading hub for human capital development and future economic growth.

Manama, Bahrain – Tamkeen 2025: The Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has announced the launch of the Human Resources Skills Report under the "Skills Bahrain" initiative, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing professional skills, boosting workforce productivity, and strengthening the role of Bahraini talent in driving economic growth.

The report highlights key transformations in the human resources sector, both locally and globally, driven by technological advancements and shifting workforce expectations. It emphasizes the growing importance of integrating technology to enhance the efficiency of HR operations, improve productivity, and drive engagement in the workplace. This includes the use of artificial intelligence for CV screening and establishing recruitment metrics, as well as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platforms in areas such as recruitment, performance management, and employee benefits.

Developed in collaboration with private sector representatives and key stakeholders, the report highlights the most in-demand roles; Compensation and Benefits Manager, Learning and Development Professional, and Organizational Design and Development Professional. It also identifies key technical skills such as data analysis, policy writing and development, and organizational development, alongside essential core skills that enable success in the field, including adaptability, communication, empathy, initiative, and digital literacy.

Commenting on the report, Amer Marhoon, Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, highlighted the report’s significance in shaping human capital development strategies. He stated: "The insights derived from this report will help guide Tamkeen’s programs towards strengthening national competencies and preparing them for future workforce demands. The HR field is evolving rapidly, necessitating the adoption of innovative, technology-driven practices and data-driven decision-making to ensure businesses remain competitive in an ever-changing job market."

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labor Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools. It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain – Skills Bahrain, an initiative under the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, organized a training workshop aimed at enhancing students’ awareness of labor market demands and guiding them toward future-oriented career p pathways. The session brought together 100 academic counselors from private schools.

The workshop aimed to equip counselors with the necessary tools and resources provided by Skills Bahrain, including the National Occupational Standards, Skills Reports, and Career Pathway Maps. Participants also explored the Employability Skills Portal — developed in partnership with the Information & eGovernment Authority — which provides access to labor market data and insights on in-demand skills and occupations.

Through practical activities, counselors learned how to integrate these resources into their guidance plans to support students in making informed academic and career choices that reflect both their interests and market trends.

Commenting on the workshop, Amer Marhoon, the Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, said: "At Skills Bahrain, we remain committed to supporting educational institutions by equipping academic counselors with market-driven tools and insights that enable students to make informed decisions.

Our collaboration with the Ministry of Education reflects our shared vision of promoting early career awareness and guiding students to pursue career pathways that align with their aspirations and future economic opportunities.

This approach enables us to better prepare the next generation to integrate effectively into the labor market."Ms Lulwa Ghassan Al-Muhanna, Director of the Private Schools Licensing & Follow-Up Directorate at the Ministry of Education, emphasised that empowering academic counsellors is key to strengthening the quality of guidance across private schools. She also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration with Skills Bahrain to ensure that career guidance is informed by reliable labour-market data and shaped around students’ aspirations and future goals.

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labor Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools.

It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain (2025) – The Labour Fund “Tamkeen” announced the launch of the Private Education Sector Skills Report under the Skills Bahrain initiative, reflecting its continued commitment to developing national talent and aligning their skills with the evolving needs of the national economy. The Report identifies the top five most in-demand jobs in Bahrain’s private education sector and the essential technical and core skills required for each.

The findings reflect a sector in transformation, driven by the rapid adoption of modern technologies, advancements in digital learning, and a stronger focus on diversity and inclusive teaching methods. The report highlights the integration of digital technologies and artificial intelligence into education, supported by data analysis to personalize learning content and streamline assessment processes. These developments aim to improve education quality and deliver more interactive, adaptable learning experiences.

Developed in collaboration with a sector-wide working group, comprising representatives from educational institutions, training providers, and other relevant entities, the report spotlights high-demand positions including Special Education Needs (SEN) Educators, Instructional Designers, Educational Technologists, and Academic and Career Counsellors. It also details key technical skills such as assessment design and implementation, adoption and integration of emerging technologies, data analysis, and professional classroom management, along with essential core skills including communication, empathy, adaptability, inclusivity, planning, and organization.

Commenting on the report, Amer Marhoon, Director General of Skills Bahrain, said:

“This report serves as a strategic tool for identifying priority skills within the education sector, thereby enhancing the alignment between education outcomes and the evolving needs of the labor market.” He added, “The trends taking place in the education sector require greater investment in future skills and the adoption of flexible and inclusive learning approaches to ensure the readiness and competitiveness of Bahraini talent  both locally and internationally.”

The private education sector is one of the promising sectors experiencing continuous growth, contributing to the development of the national economy. The education sector contributed approximately 3.98% to the Kingdom’s GDP, according to Bahrain’s Economic Report 2024. Moreover, the total number of public and private educational institutions reached 288, based on the latest statistics issued by the Ministry of Education.

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labour Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools. It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain – Skills Bahrain, an initiative under the umbrella of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), held the ‘Future Skills – Manufacturing’ event, bringing together key stakeholders from Bahrain’s manufacturing industry to discuss the findings of the latest Manufacturing Sector Skills Report developed by Skills Bahrain.

The Manufacturing Sector Skills Report sheds light on labor market trends, skills in demand and emerging jobs in the manufacturing sector, it also highlights the significant transformation in the skills landscape, driven by the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies. Among the most in-demand roles in the sector are Research and Development Scientists, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Experts, Materials Engineers, and Digital Transformation Specialists, along with other fast-growing jobs. The report also underscores the importance of mastering technical skills such as Data Analysis and Big Data Management, Machine Operation, and project management, reflecting the growing need to develop national talent capable of meeting the evolving demands of the manufacturing sector.

This initiative is part of Skills Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to guide local talent and highlight the skills and jobs in demand across vital sectors of the national economy. The event also served as a platform for industry professionals to explore strategies that ensure a sustainable and skilled talent pipeline capable of supporting the sector’s ongoing transformation.

As part of the event, a panel discussion brought together representatives from key stakeholders, including Mr. Ahmed Shaheen – Associate Director of Sector Skills Development Skills Bahrain, Mr. Khalid Salman Al Qassimi – Director of Industrial Development at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and Ms. Yusra Al Hussaini – Chief of Business Development and Lifelong Learning– Polytechnic Bahrain. The session explored emerging trends, key opportunities, and the critical skills and jobs shaping the future of the manufacturing sector—aimed at strengthening the readiness and competitiveness of the national workforce.

In this occasion, Amer Marhoon, Managing Director of Skills Bahrain stated:
“Bahrain’s manufacturing sector is a dynamic and diverse component of the national economy, currently undergoing substantial transformation driven by advancements in technology. As the sector continues to evolve, it is crucial to shed light on the importance of reliable data and insights that reflect current and future needs. This event brought together industry voices to shape future strategies. It was also essential in raising awareness about the key findings presented in the report. These insights help professionals across the sector guide workforce planning, align training efforts, and make informed decisions that contribute to sustainable industry growth.”

Mr. Khalid Salman Al Qassimi, Director of Industrial Development, emphasized that the Industry Sector Strategy 2022–2026 is built upon key pillars, including achieving sustainable growth for the sector, increasing its contribution to GDP, creating promising employment opportunities for citizens, and enhancing competitiveness at the local, regional, and global levels. In line with this vision, the Industrial Development department has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing operational frameworks within industrial projects, encouraging process automation, driving digital transformation, and aligning with the developments of Industry 4.0 efforts that will contribute to generating quality employment opportunities within the industrial sector.

He also highlighted several strategic initiatives targeted at the sector, such as the smart factory and green factory initiatives, among others. These initiatives aim to promote business development in line with sustainability principles, while keeping pace with emerging skills and modern technologies.

The Manufacturing sector is one of Bahrain's key priority sectors, as Tamkeen continues to support this sector by increasing employment opportunities for Bahrainis and advancing the professional growth of local talent. The Manufacturing Sector Skills Report is part of a wider series developed by Skills Bahrain in collaboration with industry stakeholders, providing insights into in-demand skills, emerging job roles, career pathways, and other key indicators to inform skills development. It serves as a key reference for individuals seeking to enter or advance within the sector and will help shape Tamkeen’s future programs and initiatives in line with the sector’s priorities and labour market needs.

 The report can be found on www.skillsbahrain.bh

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labor Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools.  It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain – 2025: The Labour Fund “Tamkeen” announced the release of the updated Financial Services Sector Skills Report, as part of the “Skills Bahrain” initiative and developed in collaboration with private sector stakeholder holders, government entities, and education and training providers. This update is part of ongoing efforts to enhance workforce skills, improve productivity, and support sustainable economic growth in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The report builds upon the findings of the initial report published in 2022, which provided an overview of the needs of the workforce in the sector and identified its skill gaps. The latest version reflects the sector’s evolving landscape, with updated content aligned to current labour market developments and the Core Skills Framework launched in 2024. The report categorizes sector activities using international standards tailored to Bahrain’s context, covering banking, insurance, asset management, financial markets, and financial technology (FinTech).

The financial services sector plays a pivotal role in Bahrain’s economy, surpassing oil and gas as the largest contributor to the Kingdom’s GDP, accounting for 17.8%. The sector employs approximately 14,362 individuals, with Bahrainis representing 70% of the workforce, according to the 2023 Labor Force Survey published by the Central Bank of Bahrain.

The report outlines key trends shaping the future of the sector, including rapid digital transformation and the growing prominence of FinTech. It also highlights increasing demand for specialized skills in areas such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and financial risk management. In addition, it identifies emerging roles, including actuaries, data analysts, compliance officers, and credit officers. There is also a growing focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, with sustainability officers becoming a priority for financial institutions as they integrate ESG practices into business strategies, investment decisions, and risk management processes in alignment with global and local frameworks.

Mr. Amer Marhoon, Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, stated:
"This report highlights the importance of investing in the development of skilled national talent to meet the demands of a rapidly changing sector. As digital transformation accelerates, the need for advanced technical skills in fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data analysis continues to grow.  The report also highlights the need to guide the next generation towards emerging  specializations such as ESG, which can further strengthen Bahrain’s position as a leading financial hub both regionally and internationally.” 

The report emphasizes the importance of ongoing collaboration between government entities, financial institutions, and education and training providers to ensure that the labor market is equipped with agile, future-ready talent. It serves as a key reference for individuals seeking to enter or advance within the sector and will help shape Tamkeen’s future programs and initiatives in line with the sector’s priorities and labor market needs. 

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labour Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools. It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain – Skills Bahrain – an initiative under the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) organized a workshop in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of school career guidance counselors. The workshop brought together 100 counselors from secondary schools across Bahrain.

The workshop provided an overview of key tools and resources developed by Skills Bahrain, including the Sector Skills Reports, Career Pathways Maps, and National Occupational Standards. These resources aim to help students better understand the jobs and skills in demand and align their development with the evolving needs of the labor market. The workshop also introduced the Employability Skills Portal, developed by Skills Bahrain in partnership with the Information & eGovernment Authority, as a platform that offers valuable labor market insights for students, parents, jobseekers, employers, and education and training providers.

The workshop included a hands-on training on how to use the Employability Skills Portal and the Skills Bahrain website through group activities with the counselors. Practical activities were also conducted to support career counselors in using these tools effectively and in guiding students toward educational and career choices that align with their interests and labor market trends.

Ibrahim Ali Al Burshaid, Assistant Undersecretary for Education at the Ministry of Education, praised the strong and productive partnership with the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) and its initiative, Skills Bahrain. He highlighted that this collaboration supports the Ministry’s strategic vision of fostering partnerships to advance the development of educational services in schools across the Kingdom of Bahrain.

On this occasion, Amer Marhoon, Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, stated:
"We believe in the importance of equipping students with accurate information that empowers them to make informed decisions about their education and career paths. This collaboration with the Ministry of Education marks a key step in ensuring that career counselors are supported with the latest tools and insights that reflect the demand of the labor market."

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labour Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools. It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain – 9th April: The Bahrain Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator initiative – signed earlier this year at the World Economic Forum at Davos – held its kick-off meeting today with the World Economic Forum, public sector Co-chairs, and the appointed private sectors Co-Chairs. The Accelerator, coordinated by Skills Bahrain and led jointly by the Bahrain Economic Development Board, and the Labor Fund (Tamkeen) through its initiative Skills Bahrain which aims to equip Bahrainis with future-ready skills while advancing gender parity in economic participation.

The meeting was attended by the public sector co-chairs - Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board and Her Excellency Maha Mofeez, Chief Executive of the Labour Fund, Tamkeen - along with the recently appointed private sector Co-Chairs:

·       His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Mumtalakat

·       His Excellency Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chairman of Alba

·       Yaser Al Sharifi, Chairman of the Bahrain Association of Banks 

The meeting reviewed the Accelerator’s strategic priorities and outlined key milestones. These include addressing critical skills gaps, enhancing gender parity, and strengthening Bahrain’s competitiveness in high-growth sectors.

The appointed private sector co-chairs will work closely alongside Tamkeen, Skills Bahrain and the Bahrain Economic Development Board to develop a national action plan that strengthens public-private collaboration at the heart of the Accelerator’s mission. These industry leaders will help shape responsive future-oriented programs, including initiatives that expand opportunities for women across high-growth industries.

“As Bahrain remains committed to diversifying its economy and enhancing its global competitiveness, we take pride in our human capital, which remains one of our greatest strengths. While the Kingdom has made significant progress in STEM training and female empowerment, achieving gender parity remains a priority,” said Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board, adding, “The Bahrain Skills & Gender Parity Accelerator will enable us to drive further progress by increasing female participation and future-proofing our workforce. Through a data-driven approach and strong public-private partnerships, we aim to build a more resilient economic future.”

Her Excellency Maha Mofeez, Chief Executive of Labor Fund (Tamkeen) said: “Bahrain remains steadfast in its investment in its human capital. Our focus is on creating tangible impact—empowering local talent, increasing opportunities for women, and ensuring our workforce is equipped for the demands of a dynamic global economy.”

Skills Bahrain is an initiative by Tamkeen and works in alignment with Tamkeen’s strategic priorities, which focuses on enhancing the competitiveness of Bahrainis in the private sector, fostering enterprise growth, promoting digitization and sustainability, and advancing labor market and private sector development.

Amer Marhoon, the Managing Director of the Skills Bahrain initiative commented, “Guiding local skills is an integral part of Skills Bahrain’s mission, and the collaboration we have with the World Economic Forum and the Economic Development Board through the accelerator, further drives our efforts towards preparing the workforce for the future.”

Saadia Zahidi, World Economic Forum Managing Director commented:
“Amid major technological and economic changes, Bahrain’s Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator reflects the country’s forward-looking vision and commitment to inclusive economic growth. This initiative builds on solid foundations to accelerate investment in human capital and expand opportunities for women to thrive across high-growth sectors. By equipping its population with the skills needed for the future of work, Bahrain is preparing for a rapidly evolving global economy. We are pleased to support this important step and look forward to enabling this initiative to serve as a powerful example in the region and beyond.”

With the Accelerator now moving into its implementation phase, Bahrain is taking concrete steps to bridge skill gaps and promote gender parity across the workforce. This collaboration between government entities, private sector leaders, and international partners ensures a comprehensive approach that aligns with evolving market needs and future economic trends. The execution phase of the accelerator is expected to be completed by 2026.

Manama, Bahrain- Tamkeen: Skills Bahrain, an initiative under the umbrella of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), in collaboration with Bahrain FinTech Bay, held the ‘Future Skills – Fintech’ event on February 19. The event brought together industry leaders, regulators, and fintech professionals to discuss the findings of the latest Fintech Sector Skills Report produced by Skills Bahrain in partnership with Bahrain Fintech Bay. The report highlights labor market trends, skill gaps, and opportunities in the sector.

This initiative is part of Skills Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to guide local talent and highlight the skills and jobs that are in demand within key economic sectors. Additionally, it showcases BFB’s drive to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a fintech hub. The discussions focused on the skills needed to meet industry demands, education and training opportunities for Bahraini professionals, and strategies to bridge talent gaps.

Speaking on the initiative, Amer Marhoon, the Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, emphasized that the Fintech Sector Skills Report serves as a benchmark in addressing the trends within the fintech landscape. He added, “We are committed to equipping the Bahraini workforce with the necessary information to help guide them make education and career decisions that better align with the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy. The Fintech Skills Report, which was developed with industry leaders from the sector provides valuable insights on the skills and jobs that Bahrain’s labor market needs, and this in turn allows Tamkeen to develop its training programs based on labor market insights from the industry. We are glad to be hosting this event in collaboration with Bahrain FinTech Bay, bringing together sector experts and professionals to discuss the findings of Skills Bahrain’s Sector Skills Report for the Fintech sector.”

Bader Sater, the CEO of Bahrain FinTech Bay, commented: “Talent development is a key pillar in advancing Bahrain’s fintech sector. Through this collaboration with Skills Bahrain, we aim to bridge skill gaps, create opportunities for professionals, and drive sustainable growth in the industry. The findings of this report will serve as a foundation for shaping future initiatives that enhance the capabilities of Bahrain’s workforce and position the Kingdom as a leader in fintech innovation.”

Tamkeen’s support for the fintech sector aligns with its broader strategy to increase employment, enhance career development, and support enterprises. The partnership between Skills Bahrain and Bahrain FinTech Bay reflects a shared commitment to equipping Bahrain’s workforce with the expertise required to drive the industry forward. The report can be found on www.skillsbahrain.bh

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labor Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools.  It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

As part of the Skills Bahrain initiative, the Labour Fund “Tamkeen” has unveiled a new report highlighting the skills and jobs in demand in Bahrain’s accounting sector. This report, developed in collaboration with the private sector leaders and industry experts, is an important step towards bridging the skills gap and unlocking promising career opportunities for students and professionals interested in this vital field.

The report supports national efforts to align workforce capabilities with labour market demands, enhancing the competitiveness of Bahraini talent. The report explores the diverse career pathways within accounting, ranging from roles in top-tier accounting firms to positions in financial departments across industries like retail, healthcare, and education.

It also highlights the potential for Bahraini professionals to gain international experience and contribute to major projects, through collaborations with multinational companies operating in Bahrain. Additionally, the report showcases the critical role of Bahraini accounting firms in providing training and professional development, empowering the local talent to excel.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Amer Marhoon, Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, said:

“This report is a significant tool that will help address the skills gap in the accounting sector. It offers a detailed analysis of in-demand technical skills and identifies emerging job opportunities. By aligning with market needs, these reports enable Tamkeen to shape effective programmes that prepare local talent to meet the evolving demands of the industry.”

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labour Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools.  It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Manama, Bahrain: Tamkeen 2024:

Tamkeen has announced the launch of a new sector skills report highlighting the skills and jobs required in Bahrain’s Hospitality and Tourism sector.

The report aims to support the development of key professional skills aligned with the evolving needs of Bahrain’s labor market whilst enhancing employment opportunities in the sector. This initiative reflects Bahrain’s commitment to nurturing its local talent, which serves as a cornerstone to achieving sustainable development.

The report identifies the Hospitality and Tourism sector as a key contributor to the Kingdom’s economy, emphasizing its pivotal role in creating diverse job opportunities that empower Bahraini talent to thrive in this dynamic industry.

Bahrain’s competitive advantages make it a unique destination in the Hospitality and Tourism sector. Examples of these advantages are its strategic location in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, its rich cultural heritage, and its advanced infrastructure, which collectively position the Kingdom as a preferred choice for tourists and business travelers alike.

Mr. Amer Marhoon, the Managing Director of Skills Bahrain, commented:
“We are proud to have launched eight skills reports this year in collaboration with various public and private sector entities. These reports aim to identify the skills and occupations in demand in light of  the evolving labor market. We remain committed to publishing similar reports to address the needs of the labor market, and to guide both job seekers and those already working in these sectors.”

Skills Bahrain is an initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Labor Fund “Tamkeen” which seeks to fill the skills gap of local talent resulting from the constant changes and development in the global labor market. Skills Bahrain works closely with employers, education & training providers, and government stakeholders, to bridge the skills gap by providing its stakeholders with the necessary intelligence, sector-specific data, and necessary tools.  It contributes to the transition from education to employment, and provides a clear path towards career development, therefore developing skilled and globally competitive Bahraini talent.

Skills Bahrain and the Information and e-Government Authority today hosted a media briefing to introduce the Employability Skills Portal, which was officially launched by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Educational Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), during a ceremony held last week to officially inaugurate the Skills Bahrain initiative.

The Employability Skills Portal, the first-of-its-kind in the region, was developed in collaboration between the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), through its Skills Bahrain initiative, and the Information & eGovernment Authority. It offers key labor market data through its dedicated platform, which can be viewed on: www.esp.bh

The platform reflects the joint efforts of Tamkeen, the Information & eGovernment Authority, and other labor market stakeholders in providing relevant and reliable labor market data. By integrating and analyzing information secured from several sources, the portal delivers a holistic view of Bahrain’s labor market, enabling individuals and organizations to access key data transparently in order to aid in their decision making, while also helping design support programs and targeted solutions that are aligned with the needs of the market.

The Employability Skills Portal serves a wide range of groups, including students, parents, job seekers, employees, employers, and education and training providers in order to support informed decision-making in key areas like education, training, and labor market trends by providing data-driven insights. It also highlights in-demand skills and jobs across sectors based on research conducted by Tamkeen’s Skills Bahrain initiative.

Mr. Amer Marhoon Managing Director - Skills Bahrain said: “The launch of the Employability Skills Portal marks a major milestone in Tamkeen’s commitment to creating an ecosystem where Bahrainis are the employee of choice in the labor market. The portal also provides job seekers and graduates with the tools they need to make well-informed career decisions. Furthermore, it enables Tamkeen to strategically design programs and human capital development initiatives that address skills gaps by utilizing reliable, data-driven market data. At Tamkeen, we will also ensure that our programs and initiatives are updated based on the latest available data to reflect the dynamic nature of Bahrain’s labor market, thus enhancing employment opportunities for Bahrainis”

Mr. Marhoon also commended the efforts of Team Bahrain and the ongoing collaboration between the various entities involved in providing and regularly updating the data to ensure the accuracy of the information available on the portal.

Dr. Khalid AlMutawa, Deputy Chief Executive for Operation & Governance at the Information and eGovernment Authority highlighted the significance of the Employability Skills Portal, saying: “The Portal provides comprehensive and integrated data on the most critical skills and jobs in demand within the labor market. This initiative underscores our commitment to furthering digital transformation and leveraging advanced technology and artificial intelligence to support Bahrain’s high-value sectors. It is the product of a joint collaboration between the IGA, Tamkeen, the Skills Bahrain initiative, and other government entities, resulting in the development of this key national project.”

Dr. Khalid AlMutawa stated that Portal utilizes the latest technologies and systems to facilitate electronic integration between government databases. This ensures a seamless flow of primary labor market data, which is then analyzed using cloud computing technology to provide insights for policymakers to shape employment strategies for both the public and private sectors. He noted that this approach helps save time, enhances efficiency, and accelerates progress.

He added that the IGA leverages the capabilities of the National Cloud, utilizing the National “Data Lake” to store information from twelve data owners/providers. This data is then securely integrated into the portal’s database through encrypted electronic connections.

The portal features multiple dashboards that, in its initial phase, focus on data related to the private sector. One such dashboard showcases private sector statistics, presenting information on the number of employees across sectors by age group, allowing users to explore specific professions by comparing employment data, job roles, and average industry wages. Additional dashboards are tailored to various audience groups, providing insights including enrollment and graduation statistics across academic specializations, as well as a university guide detailing available academic programs.

The Employability Skills Portal provides information shared by various ministries, government authorities, and local organizations, including the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Ministry of Education, the Social Insurance Organization, higher education institutes, and the Labour Fund (Tamkeen). The Information & eGovernment Authority vets the data before it is integrated into the portal. Additionally, the Platform is currently in its initial phase, with plans for continuous updates and the future introduction of additional features and services.

To explore the Employability Skills Portal, please visit www.esp.bh

His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Educational Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), emphasized that the national workforce of the Kingdom of Bahrain is the foundation of success and excellence across all industries. He praised the capabilities of Bahrainis in driving national development and achieving ambitious goals. Furthermore, His Highness highlighted the critical need for ongoing investment in nurturing Bahraini talent through training programs aimed at enhancing leadership skills and competitiveness. 

HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman reiterated the commitment to implementing innovative and specialized initiatives that align with this vision, supporting comprehensive national development under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. 

At a launch ceremony attended by senior representatives from both the public and private sectors, His Highness officially unveiled the Skills Bahrain initiative and the Employability Skills Portal, which operate under the umbrella of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen). He emphasized that these ambitious initiatives represent a comprehensive vision aimed at holistically developing the labor market. This vision is centered on understanding market demands and leveraging data-driven insights to support the implementation of upskilling initiatives in collaboration with various organizations within the Team Bahrain ecosystem. These efforts are designed to provide the private sector with a highly skilled national workforce capable of driving economic growth. 

The launch of Skills Bahrain marks a pivotal moment in Tamkeen’s efforts to bridge the skills gap. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among key government stakeholders, private sector leaders, and educational institutions to create a skills-based ecosystem that connects individuals with employers while offering reliable and relevant training opportunities, thus further enhancing skills development in the Kingdom. 

Skills Bahrain conducts research in key economic sectors and analyses labor market data to identify skill gaps. These insights are used to guide relevant stakeholders in addressing the needs of the ecosystem. 

The Initiative’s strategy is built around three key pillars. The first pillar, Engaged National Workforce, empowers Bahrainis with skills targeted at key sectors and high-value roles to ensure their readiness to enter the job market. The second, Involved Employers, relates to partnering with the private sector to highlight specific workforce needs, skills, and behaviors, and to help upskill and reskill the national workforce. The final pillar, Relevant and High-Quality Training, ensures that training aligns with private sector requirements in an ecosystem in which skills are validated and recognized. 

The Employability Skills Portal, the first-of-its-kind platform in the region, is designed to empower students, job-seekers, employees, employers, and training and educational institutes, by providing essential data and insights into labor market dynamics. This initiative is the result of a partnership between Skills Bahrain, the Information & eGovernment Authority, and several key partners.  

The tools and data provided by Skills Bahrain enable the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) to develop human capital initiatives and partnerships that enhance the skills and competitiveness of local talent, ensuring that Bahrainis remain the preferred workforce within the labor market.