The 46th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit is set to commence tomorrow, December 3rd, in Manama, Bahrain, and preparations are well underway. Today, the Bahraini Ministry of Information actively participated in the exhibition accompanying the summit, showcasing its advancements in media and information services. This participation highlights Bahrain’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration and utilizing cutting-edge technology in media dissemination. The event provides a platform to demonstrate the evolution of media across the GCC region, with a particular focus on digital innovation and cultural preservation.
Ministry of Information Showcases Digital Transformation at Manama GCC Summit Exhibition
Dr. Ramzan bin Abdullah Al Noaimi, Bahrain’s Minister of Information, alongside Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC, officially opened the Media Centre and toured the Ministry of Information’s dedicated pavilion. The pavilion served as a comprehensive display of the Ministry’s diverse portfolio, including its various applications, websites, and social media accounts. The focus was on demonstrating the significant development occurring across all media formats – readable content, compelling visuals, engaging audio, and dynamic electronic media.
Highlighting Bahrain’s Media Capabilities
Visitors to the pavilion were able to explore the tools used for delivering news services and gain detailed insights into the Ministry’s content offerings. The exhibition wasn’t solely focused on Bahraini initiatives; it also prominently featured the Oman News Agency (ONA). ONA’s website, application, and social media presence were showcased, emphasizing their own evolution in delivering readable, visual, and audio media content through modern electronic tools. This collaborative approach underscores the GCC’s shared vision for a robust and technologically advanced media landscape.
“Ayn” Platform: Preserving Omani Culture Through Digital Archives
A key attraction within the Bahrain Manama exhibition was the presentation of the Directorate General of Electronic Media’s digital platform, “Ayn.” This innovative platform offers a rich archive of Omani radio, television, and audio book content, meticulously curated to reflect the nation’s unique culture and identity. “Ayn” isn’t just a repository of historical content; it also demonstrates the qualitative advancements achieved in the Omani media industry regarding digital content creation and delivery.
Empowering Future Generations with the Children’s Interface
Alongside “Ayn,” the pavilion also introduced the Children’s Interface, a pioneering media platform specifically designed for young audiences. This interface is the first of its kind in Oman, dedicated to promoting national identity and nurturing Omani talents. By providing engaging and educational content tailored to children, the platform aims to instill a sense of pride and belonging in the next generation. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to digital media and its role in shaping future citizens.
State-of-the-Art Media Centre Facilitates Summit Coverage
The Media Centre itself is a testament to Bahrain’s dedication to providing comprehensive support for media coverage of the GCC Summit. It boasts a range of facilities designed to meet the needs of journalists and broadcasters from across the region and beyond. These include dedicated work halls, a press conference hall, the Kingdom of Bahrain hall, and specialized venues for visual and audio media, print journalism, and photography. Private work booths are also available for focused reporting.
Comprehensive Resources for Media Professionals
Furthermore, the Media Centre features a library stocked with digital materials and media resources. A captivating exhibition of GCC Summit photos, organized by the GCC General Secretariat with contributions from all GCC news agencies, chronicles the history of the Council through visual storytelling. The display showcases images representing key events and activities since the GCC’s inception. Large screens throughout the centre will provide real-time coverage of the Summit proceedings from the main meeting hall, ensuring that the world can follow the discussions as they unfold. Dedicated studios are available for live broadcasting by Arab television organizations, and a specialized section is dedicated to satellite broadcasting, in collaboration with Bahrain TV. This robust infrastructure ensures seamless and comprehensive coverage of the GCC Summit.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Regional Media Cooperation
The Ministry of Information’s participation in the exhibition accompanying the 46th GCC Summit in Manama underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in the media sector. The showcased advancements in digital media, cultural preservation, and media infrastructure demonstrate a shared commitment to fostering a vibrant and informed regional community. The event serves as a crucial platform for exchanging ideas, strengthening partnerships, and shaping the future of media across the Gulf Cooperation Council. The focus on media technology and its application to cultural heritage will undoubtedly influence future initiatives within the region. For more information on the GCC Summit and related events, please visit the official GCC website.

