A PROPOSAL to instal electronic advertising screens across Bahrain ahead of national elections next year has been given the green light.
The Southern Municipal Council yesterday unanimously approved the initiative by chairman Abdulla Abdullatif in a landmark move aimed at modernising public communication and enhancing urban aesthetics.
The move seeks to use the screens for parliamentary and municipal election campaigns as well as for commercial advertising.
The proposal, which was studied in detail by the services and public utilities committee, highlights the growing importance of digital media in community engagement, urban beautification and economic opportunity.
“This project represents a forward-looking vision that combines civic communication with technological innovation,” said Mr Abdullatif.
“Electronic screens will not only provide candidates with a modern and dynamic platform to communicate their messages, but also open the door for private sector investment and new advertising opportunities across the kingdom.”
Under the proposal, electronic screens would be strategically installed in key public areas to display election campaigns, community messages, and commercial advertisements. The system will allow for the quick updating of content, ensuring that information remains current, relevant and visually engaging.
“The ability to instantly update content is one of the greatest advantages of digital screens,” Mr Abdullatif added.
“Messages can be tailored in real time and the use of colours, animations and modern designs will help capture public attention and encourage greater interaction.”
According to the committee’s report, the initiative is the first of its kind in Bahrain and also in the GCC. It is expected to set a regional precedent for integrating smart advertising technologies into civic and commercial life.
Committee chairman Ali Al Shaikh emphasised the committee’s confidence in the project’s feasibility and its alignment with Bahrain’s development goals.
“Our committee studied the proposal extensively and found that it aligns perfectly with the objectives of the 2001 Municipal Law, which encourages local councils to propose projects that enhance public services and community well-being,” he said.
“These screens will contribute not only to the modernisation of campaign communication, but also to the beautification of our urban landscapes,” he added.
“They will serve as a reflection of Bahrain’s civilisational progress and its readiness to embrace smart city technologies.”
The report also pointed out that the initiative would be regulated by Bahrain’s existing Advertising Committee, a body under the Municipalities and Agriculture Ministry responsible for licensing and monitoring advertisements in the kingdom.
The screens are also expected to play a key role in commercial advertising, public service messaging and community announcements, creating a dynamic platform that benefits both the public and private sectors.
“This initiative showcases how technology can enhance public communication and contribute to economic growth,” said Mr Al Shaikh.
“It is a small but significant step in transforming Bahrain’s cities into smarter, more connected, and more visually engaging spaces.
“If approved, installation of the electronic screens could begin in 2026.”
The proposal has been referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for review.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))