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Bahrain’s private sector is key partner in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a minister has said.
Sustainable Development Minister and Economic Development Board (EDB) chief executive Noor Al Khulaif stressed that progress cannot be achieved without strong collaboration between government, business and society.
Responding to a parliamentary question by Shura Council public utilities and environment affairs committee chairman Dr Mohammed Ali, the minister outlined an extensive framework of initiatives, partnerships and programmes aimed at accelerating Bahrain’s sustainable development in line with the UN 2030 targets.
“The Sustainable Development Goals are not merely international commitments; they are a national responsibility that requires the collective effort of government, the private sector and civil society,” she said.
“The private sector is a strategic partner in achieving balanced growth that combines economic prosperity with social inclusion and environmental protection.”
She highlighted that Bahrain’s Government Programme (2022–2026), titled ‘From Recovery to Sustainable Growth’, serves as the main national framework aligning government policy, legislative priorities and private sector engagement with the SDGs. The programme reflects Bahrain’s broader Economic Vision 2030 and embeds sustainability across economic, social and environmental policies.
According to the minister, the ministry’s role is primarily supportive, ensuring alignment between national strategies and international benchmarks.
Its responsibilities include monitoring sustainable development indicators, representing Bahrain in international forums and submitting policy recommendations to relevant ministerial committees to address performance gaps.
A key area of collaboration has been with the financial sector.
In 2023, the ministry supported the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) in drafting Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure guidelines, now mandatory for financial institutions and listed companies.
“The financial sector plays a critical role in accelerating sustainable development by mobilising capital, supporting innovation and financing green and inclusive projects,” the minister said.
In parallel, the ministry worked with the Industry and Commerce Ministry to launch the Green Factory Label, encouraging manufacturers to adopt environmentally responsible practices.
Ms Al Khulaif said sustainability had become a core pillar of Bahrain’s investment and growth strategy.
“Sustainable development is not an optional add-on for Bahrain – it is integral to how we attract investment, create quality jobs and build a resilient economy,” Ms Al Khulaif pointed out.
“Our partnership with the private sector is essential to delivering long-term growth that benefits businesses, citizens and future generations alike,” she added.
Youth engagement has also been prioritised. Over the past two years, the ministry has partnered with private institutions to promote sustainability awareness among young people and students.
“Initiatives include the Mastercard Financial Inclusion Challenge for SDGs, launched with Tamkeen and Benefit, aimed at enhancing financial literacy and fintech innovation,” the minister said.
“Another initiative – the National Photography Competition on Sustainable Tourism – was launched as part of Youth City 2030 to promote environmental awareness and sustainable tourism through creative expression,” she added.
“The private sector also played a major role in preparing Bahrain’s second Voluntary National Review (VNR) in 2023, which assessed progress on the SDGs.”
Ms Al Khulaif said dedicated workshops were held with business representatives, in co-ordination with the EDB, CBB, and the Bahrain Chamber.
She confirmed that the private sector will again be fully engaged in preparing Bahrain’s third VNR, scheduled for submission to the UN in July 2026.
“We remain committed to deepening partnership with the private sector to achieve all SDG targets,” she said.
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