Smart cards for Gulf nationals and investors

BAHRAINI identity cards will be issued for GCC nationals and investors living in the country.

The smart cards will be issued to citizens of the six Gulf countries – residents and investors in Bahrain – who meet criteria set by the Information and eGovernment Authority (IGA).

This aims to further strengthen relations with neighbouring countries and provide the opportunity to attract GCC investments and inter-exchanges.

“This step comes in pursuit of enhancing and supporting co-ordinating steps taken by the GCC Steering Committee for Smart Cards and its initiatives in support of directives bestowed by the GCC leaders to promote further integration,” said IGA chief executive Mohammed Ali Al Qaed.

“Through the issuance of the Bahraini identity card, the IGA is keen on simplifying transaction procedures for GCC residents and investors in Bahrain as well as accelerating access of public and private services in the most convenient methods – in accordance with highest levels of security, confidentiality and quality of services.”

The move was in line with directives from His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, to provide more facilities to GCC residents and investors in Bahrain when conducting their transactions at various service departments.

“This procedure is in line with a Royal decree regarding the usage of the identity card as a proof of a unified identity when conducting transactions,” said Mr Al Qaed.

“The procedure is consistent with the eGovernment’s national strategy and the authority’s execution of online transactions, which benefit citizens and residents alike.

“It is also in line with an article that is endorsed on every GCC resident or investor (whose residency exceeded six months during the previous year from the date of entering the kingdom) who own an authenticated, officially recognised address.”

GCC citizens – residents and investors in Bahrain – who meet the conditions and requirements of obtaining a Bahraini smart card should visit the Isa Town or Muharraq branches of the IGA.

Source: http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/197503/Smart-cards-for-Gulf-nationals