Artificial Intelligence (AI) could soon play a pivotal role in expediting social funding for the needy in Bahrain, a major forum heard.
Shura Council’s information and communication technology director and digital transformation and AI committee head Abeer Alobaidli said integrating AI to streamline processes such as document verification and data processing could accelerate the aid distribution cycle and enhance accuracy.
However, she clarified that AI was only here to help and not take the place of any volunteers or social aid workers.
Ms Alobaidli was speaking at the forum organised by the Social Development Ministry to showcase the capabilities of AI tools and systems that may soon transform the way aid is delivered.
All registered social and charitable organisations were invited to attend the event held at the Isa Town Social Charity Society yesterday.
Ms Alobaidli shared a forward-looking vision for how AI can support – not replace – those involved in charity work.
“AI may study documents, photographs and applicant details, but authentication and actual understanding should continue being done on a human level,” she said.
“AI’s strength lies in analysis – processing what it’s given – not in human empathy or judgment. It is a helper and it will not replace anyone.”
She stressed the importance of maintaining human oversight even as AI capabilities continue to grow.
“AI is not standing on its own two feet yet,” she said, acknowledging that while the technology can improve efficiency, it should not be seen as an all-encompassing solution.
Ms Alobaidli cited examples from international platforms where chatbots interact with applicants in a way that feels convincingly human. However, she cautioned against complete reliance.
“I’ve seen considerate bots chatting with applicants at a global level as if they were real people, but again, human intervention should always be there,” she said.
As part of the initiative to empower civil society with these technologies, Bahrain’s Labour Fund will play a central role in providing training and support.
“Tamkeen will provide the necessary support – from training to the integration of AI technologies in charity work,” Ms Alobaidli stressed.
The forum reflected the government’s broader aim of digital transformation, especially in areas where administrative burdens often delay support for the underprivileged.
The ministry has urged all charitable and civic societies to begin exploring AI integration by the end of the year, with more workshops and technical showcases to follow.
“This initiative marks a step towards a future where Bahrain’s social aid ecosystem becomes smarter, faster, and more responsive while remaining deeply human at its core,” said Ms Alobaidli.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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