A proposal to introduce electronic self-service machines in public locations to allow residents to renew their driving licences without needing to visit government offices or go online has been approved by the Northern Municipal Council.
The decision came during the council’s recent meeting, where the services and public utilities committee presented the proposal submitted by councillor Mohammed Al Dossary, although there was one senior voice of opposition.
The committee, chaired by Zainab Al Durazi, believes the proposal could achieve several key objectives.
- Facilitating access to driving licence renewal services at any time.
- Reducing the need for individuals to visit government offices and wait in queues.
- Enhancing the quality of government services and strengthening Bahrain’s digital infrastructure in line with national development goals and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Ms Al Durazi stressed that placing the machines in public areas – such as shopping malls or government service centres – would make the process significantly easier for many citizens.
She added that the intention is to improve accessibility to government services, particularly for vulnerable groups who may not be comfortable navigating digital platforms.
“As Bahrain continues to advance its e-government framework, the debate highlights the balance policymakers must strike between technological efficiency and inclusivity – ensuring that all citizens, regardless of age or digital familiarity, can access essential services with ease,” she added.
Mr Al Dossary argued that Bahrain appears to be behind some of its Gulf neighbours in providing such self-service technologies. “Similar machines are available in public places across the GCC,” he said.
He highlighted how the machines would particularly benefit senior citizens and those who struggle with online platforms.
“Many elderly people don’t know how to do things online or follow the steps. The machines would make it much easier for them,” Mr Al Dossary explained, suggesting the system could eventually be expanded. “The machines could be upgraded to include all traffic services, not just licence renewals,” he said.
Despite broad support, the motion was not approved unanimously. Council vice-chairwoman Zaina Jassim expressed firm opposition, arguing that Bahrain’s digital government services were superior. “Bahrain has surpassed these machines and is doing things online within a maximum of two minutes,” she said.
Ms Jassim pointed out that the digital licence format already appears on mobile phones immediately after online renewal.
“An electronic version of the licence is upgraded on the phone until the physical licence arrives by mail,” she added.
She argued that the suggested equipment would create unnecessary expense. “These machines are costly and I believe such budgets could be directed to other much-needed uses,” she added.
Following discussion, the council voted to approve the proposal, with Ms Jassim being the sole dissenting voice. The recommendation will now be forwarded to the minister responsible for further consideration.
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