Bahrain’s commitment to safety and security remains paramount, demonstrated by substantial advancements across its interior ministry departments throughout 2025. From enhanced traffic management and cutting-edge passport technology to proactive anti-crime initiatives and community engagement, the Kingdom has consistently prioritized the wellbeing of its citizens and residents. This year has witnessed a confluence of modernization efforts, innovative programs, and international recognition, solidifying Bahrain’s position as a leader in regional security and public service. A key focus has been improving Bahrain’s security infrastructure, resulting in tangible benefits for all.
Enhancing Road Safety Through Modernization & Awareness
The General Directorate of Traffic has been at the forefront of efforts to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety. Implementing recent amendments to the Traffic Law alongside deploying modern patrol units signifies a proactive approach. Statistics reveal a concerning level of incidents, with 80,167 traffic accidents recorded up to October, tragically resulting in 464 fatalities and serious injuries. However, alongside enforcement – with 289,683 violations largely tied to speeding, ignoring traffic signals, and mobile phone usage – a strong emphasis has been placed on preventative measures.
The Directorate launched 506 awareness programs, lectures, and events, reaching approximately 30,000 individuals. This outreach is crucial in fostering responsible driving habits and educating the public on safe road practices. The increase in licensed vehicles to 780,592 underscores the growing need for such initiatives and enhanced traffic management systems. Further solidifying their commitment to excellence, the Directorate was awarded the Best Practice in e-Participation Award at the 2025 e-Government Excellence Awards.
Streamlining Travel: Passport & Customs Innovation
Significant strides have also been made in modernizing travel processes. The Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) has successfully completed its institutional transformation plan, issuing over 300,000 electronic passports and expanding delivery services both domestically and internationally. Bahrain’s passport now ranks 59th globally and 5th in the Arab world according to the Henley Passport Index, offering greater international mobility to its citizens.
The implementation of the “Smart Travel” system is a particularly noteworthy development. Leveraging artificial intelligence, this system analyzes passenger data to proactively identify and mitigate risks, optimizing both the speed and security of travel procedures. This system contributed to managing an impressive volume of travellers – over 32 million entries and exits between January and October – with the majority utilizing the King Fahd Causeway.
Customs Affairs mirrored this dedication to modernization, handling 14 million vehicles and 350,000 trucks with increased efficiency. Improvements reduced the average waiting time from 45 minutes in 2023 to a more manageable 21 minutes this year. A total of 228 seizures were recorded at the airport, while truck traffic reached 313,409 entries and exits in the third quarter of 2025, alongside the management of 6,117 smuggling cases. These figures highlight the diligent work in protecting Bahrain’s borders.
Combating Financial Crime and Enhancing Police Capabilities
The Financial Investigations National Centre (FINC) has significantly advanced Bahrain’s efforts to counter terrorist financing and money laundering. The introduction of the National Strategy for Combating Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing, and the Proliferation of Weapons, spearheaded by the Minister of Interior, is a vital step towards protecting the nation’s financial integrity and economic stability. This national strategy demonstrates a robust commitment to financial security measures.
Simultaneously, the Royal Academy of Police has focused on bolstering the skills and knowledge of its personnel. They organized 22 events promoting the National Human Rights Plan, benefiting 761 individuals. Furthermore, the Training Directorate delivered approximately 685 internal and external training courses, equipping 10,353 ministry personnel with the tools needed for improved performance, heightened security readiness, and exceptional public service. This ongoing investment in training is essential for maintaining a highly effective police force.
Community Engagement and National Values
The Ministry of Interior recognizes the importance of building strong relationships with the community. The Police Media Centre has actively engaged the public through various channels, growing its social media following to approximately 838,000. They disseminated 103,000 reports, news items, and monitored materials, ensuring transparent communication and raising public awareness. The production of 4,196 materials by the Radio and Television Affairs Division, including coverage, reports, and video clips, further amplifies this message. Publications like “Al Amn” and “Watani” magazines continue to nurture national awareness among children.
The six-year-old National Plan to Promote the Spirit of Belonging to the Nation and Reinforce the Values of Nationalism (“Bahrainouna”) continues to evolve. The “Generations Challenge” competition and interactive platforms organized by the Executive Office are designed to foster community participation and reinforce national values. These initiatives contribute to a stronger sense of national identity and social cohesion. The success of programs like “Maan” (together), combating violence and addiction, and the increasing role of Bahraini women in policing are further examples of this commitment.
Recognition and Continued Commitment
The Ministry of Interior’s dedication to excellence has been consistently recognized through numerous awards. The “Maan” program received the Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Security Research Award, while the Human Resources Directorate earned the Diamond Certificate for its “Healthy Workplaces” project and accolades at the 2025 Government Human Resources Summit. Even at the governorate level, initiatives like the Southern Governorate’s video call service and the Northern and Muharraq Governorates’ healthy city accreditations demonstrate a widespread commitment to innovation and public service.
On Bahrain Police Day, the Ministry of Interior reaffirms its unwavering allegiance to His Majesty the King and its dedication to serving and protecting the nation under his leadership. The advancements made throughout 2025 demonstrate a clear vision for a safer, more secure, and more prosperous Bahrain, built on a foundation of modernization, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to national values.
