Manama: Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, presided over the 314th meeting of the Ministerial Committee for Development and Infrastructure Projects. The meeting, held in the context of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), began with commendations for the outcomes of the 38th GCC Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security Committee meeting. This gathering, hosted by Bahrain, saw the participation of GCC ministers and officials focused on agriculture and food security, along with the GCC Secretary General.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Committee emphasized the importance of joint GCC action and the decisions taken to foster integration in food security and sustainable agricultural development. The importance of timely implementation of major development projects as per approved plans was underscored. Updates were provided on the tender process for the Bahrain International Airport Access Roads Development Project and the development of over 2,500 integrated housing units in Khalifa City, as briefed by the Minister of Works and the Minister of Housing and Urban Planning.
The Committee extended congratulations to the chairpersons and members of the Capital Trustees Board and municipal councils on the commencement of the fifth session of the sixth legislative term. It reaffirmed the government's commitment to enhancing cooperation with municipal councils to improve service quality and infrastructure projects, aligning with the comprehensive development process and citizens' aspirations.
Joint transport arrangements via the King Fahd Causeway were highlighted, allowing licensed taxis from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to transport passengers under approved regulations. This service aims to provide flexible transport options, facilitate movement, and enhance connectivity between the two countries.
The Committee also congratulated the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications for receiving two awards at the GCC Green Mobility Forum 2026, reflecting success in sustainability and governance within the transport sector. Additionally, Bahrain International Airport's recognition from Airports Council International was noted as a testament to its operational efficiency and competitiveness.
The development of advanced digital government services by the Supreme Council for Environment was welcomed, aligning with the government's digital transformation initiatives to provide efficient services to citizens. The Committee reviewed the progress of Bahrain's Real Estate Sector Development Plan and emphasized the sector's contribution to the national economy.
Infrastructure and service project priorities were assessed, with financial estimates for the 2027-2028 fiscal years to be incorporated into the draft state general budget. The readiness of fibre-optic network infrastructure was also discussed, with plans to integrate related requirements into construction regulations and building permits. The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications was tasked with coordinating the necessary legal frameworks.
The Committee concluded by reviewing a proposed mechanism for implementing certain provisions of Resolution (22) of 2005 concerning municipal fees and its amendments.