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A CITIZEN’S discount card to ease the cost of living is on Parliament’s table this Tuesday.
The proposal aims to provide discounted services across various sectors, including retail, education, healthcare, public administration, telecommunications and transportation.
It has been endorsed jointly by the financial and economic affairs committee and the services committee.
The card will be structured similar to the existing Teacher’s Card which provides exclusive benefits and discounts for educators.
The proposal is driven by two key public interest considerations:
n Economic relief for citizens: The initiative aims to ease financial burdens on Bahraini households by providing affordable access to essential services.
n Simplifying access to services: The discount programme would make vital public and private sector services more accessible to families.
Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa has urged a reconsideration of the initiative due to its potential financial implications.
“The Bahraini government already provides significant support to citizens through direct financial aid, subsidised services and welfare programmes,” he explained.
“Essential services, including healthcare and education, are already free for Bahraini citizens, ensuring equitable access to fundamental needs.
“Several discounted services are already available to specific groups, such as reduced government fees for senior citizens in recognition of their contributions to the country.”
Offering across-the-board discounts on government services would lead to a reduction in non-oil revenues at a time when Bahrain is working to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil income.
“The government remains committed to ensuring a decent standard of living for all Bahrainis,” said Shaikh Salman.
“However, the focus should be on sustainable programmes that do not compromise the country’s long-term financial stability.”
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