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Establishing a Talent Hub in Bahrain

In a significant move for Bahrain’s employment landscape, the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EY MENA during the Gateway Gulf 2026 event. This partnership aims to create an EY Talent Hub in Bahrain, which will provide specialized professional services and generate 125 quality jobs for locals. The initiative is expected to enhance support for the MENA region by focusing on the recruitment and development of Bahraini talent.

Objectives of the Initiative

From 2027 to 2029, the project will be rooted in three core areas: attracting talent, providing necessary skills, and ensuring opportunities in key sectors such as audit, consultancy, tax, strategy, and transactions. The primary goal is to equip Bahraini graduates and young professionals with practical experience and expertise necessary for successful careers. This initiative is particularly relevant as it addresses the increasing demand for professionals skilled in burgeoning sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainability.

The Minister of Labour Fund (Tamkeen) expressed that this partnership is a stride towards sustainable job creation in high-growth areas that have significant economic implications. By facilitating the development of advanced capabilities, Tamkeen aims to strengthen the employability of the Bahraini workforce while also showcasing Bahrain’s potential as a talent hub in the region.

Bridging Skill Gaps

Nader Rahimi, an Assurance Partner at EY MENA, emphasized the importance of aligning talent development with the evolving technological landscape. As industries adopt new technologies, it is crucial for workforce development programs to adapt and produce skilled professionals equipped with the necessary tools to succeed in a competitive market. This initiative aims to instill confidence in Bahraini workers, empowering them to not just adapt to changes but to lead innovations in their fields.

EY’s combined expertise in various sectors will enhance the training and development provided at the Talent Hub, ensuring that local professionals receive insights and methodologies reflective of global best practices. The initiative aims to position Bahrain as a competitive player in providing top-tier professional services that align with international standards.

Long-term Vision

This collaboration between Tamkeen and EY MENA supports Bahrain’s strategic priorities for 2026, which include fostering high-quality job creation, enhancing private sector competitiveness, and aligning workforce skills with market demands. There is a significant emphasis on innovative approaches that foster growth and expansion, particularly for startups within the region.

As the Talent Hub begins its operations, it will play a crucial role in meeting the needs of local clients while also contributing to the broader economic framework of Bahrain. This initiative not only aims to empower Bahraini professionals but also strives to establish the Kingdom as a cornerstone for talent and professional excellence in the MENA region. Ultimately, by enhancing the skill sets of its workforce, Bahrain is taking a proactive step in securing a robust and diversified economic future.

Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to skill development, the initiative sets a precedent for future collaborations aimed at promoting economic sustainability and workforce empowerment in Bahrain. This proactive focus on talent development positions the Kingdom uniquely in the competitive landscape of professional services, nurturing a generation ready to tackle the complexities of future labor markets.