Bahrain is preparing for a dramatic transformation of its urban landscape, with plans underway to replace traditional roadside billboards with cutting-edge digital smart screens.
The ambitious move was revealed by Muharraq Municipality director-general and national advertising in charge Khalid Al Qallaf, who announced that Bahrain could soon start phasing out conventional static advertising boards in favour of modern digital displays, aligning with the country’s wider smart city development strategy.
Mr Al Qallaf said the transformation represents a major leap in modernising Bahrain’s advertising sector and enhancing the visual identity of its cities.
“There is a national direction to gradually transform conventional advertising boards into intelligent digital screens, similar to what is being implemented in leading smart cities around the world,” said Mr Al Qallaf.
The first phase of the project will begin with a pilot implementation along the Muharraq Ring Road, one of the kingdom’s busiest and most visible transport corridors, before the initiative expands to municipalities across Bahrain.
“We will first test the concept on Muharraq Ring Road, where the new generation of digital advertising screens will be introduced before gradually expanding the model nationwide,” he explained.
The initiative is expected to completely phase out conventional billboard advertising over the coming years, replacing them with dynamic LED-powered smart displays capable of showcasing multiple advertisements, real-time messaging, public awareness campaigns and interactive digital content.
Officials believe the move will significantly boost advertising revenues, create new opportunities for businesses and strengthen Bahrain’s ambitions to become a regional leader in digital infrastructure and urban innovation.
Mr Al Qallaf said the transition reflects Bahrain’s determination to keep pace with rapidly evolving global cities known for their futuristic cityscapes.
“We are looking at a future where Bahrain adopts a fully modern advertising ecosystem. This is about more than advertisements – it is about transforming the country’s visual identity and embracing smart technology as part of the next stage of urban development,” he added.
The project mirrors iconic international entertainment and commercial districts such as Times Square in New York City, famous for its towering digital screens and immersive advertising displays that have become symbols of modern metropolitan life.
Mr Al Qallaf stressed that if successfully rolled out nationwide, Bahrain could soon emerge as the Gulf’s leading hub for next-generation digital advertising – turning its roads and city centres into vibrant, technology-driven spaces unlike anything currently seen in the region.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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