Davos, Jan. 23 (BNA): His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Court, led Bahrain’s high-level delegation attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, Switzerland, on behalf of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Minister of Finance participates in WEF Davos session
Along with a group of international leaders and decision-makers from government, finance, and technology, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, took part in the senior panel session titled “New Dawn for Entrepreneurship?” during the Forum in the presence of HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
The Minister of Finance and National Economy emphasized during the session that, as part of its larger economic development initiatives, the Kingdom of Bahrain continues to advance policies and legislative frameworks that support entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital transformation, including the adoption of artificial intelligence, under the direction of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and in accordance with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to the Minister, entrepreneurship is becoming more and more crucial in luring capital and boosting economic competitiveness. He cited the Gulf Cooperation Council nations’ experience, emphasizing their sophisticated digital infrastructure and legislative frameworks that have facilitated the adoption of technological projects and economic diversification.
Additionally, he emphasized Bahrain’s emphasis on investing in people and skills, highlighting the significance of ongoing education as technology advances. Developing skills and competencies is still essential to maintaining growth in a technology-driven economy, the Minister said, outlining the role of the Labour Fund Tamkeen in assisting the Bahraini workforce through reskilling and digital training programs.
During the conversation, the Minister discussed Bahrain’s strategy for promoting youth entrepreneurship, including programs and contests targeted at college students that are intended to foster creativity, assist ideas in entering the workforce, and support economic growth and job creation.
Speaking about new models of entrepreneurship, the Minister clarified that artificial intelligence is improving capacities and developing skills in a variety of industries, including as government services, technology, retail, and finance. He pointed out that the transformation of technology into productivity, innovation, and scalable growth is largely dependent on entrepreneurship.
The discussion also looked at how AI is changing economic models and labor markets, how entrepreneurship is becoming more important in the face of rapid digital innovation, and whether these developments would lead to new job opportunities or obstacles.
