#Bahrain #Manama #Tamkeen #EY MENA

Building a Brighter Future for Bahrain's Workforce

In an effort to bolster the talent landscape in Bahrain and the wider MENA region, Tamkeen has announced a significant partnership with EY MENA. This collaboration, which was formalized at the Gateway Gulf 2026 event, aims to establish an EY Talent Hub in Bahrain, creating around 125 jobs over a three-year period. This initiative is set to provide young Bahrainis with invaluable opportunities, particularly in disciplines such as audit, consultancy, tax, strategy, and transactions.

The Importance of Local Talent Development

The establishment of the EY Talent Hub is more than just a job creation initiative. It represents a strategic move to develop and enhance the skills of the local workforce in alignment with growing sectors crucial to Bahrain's economy. With a specific focus on cultivating talents among young graduates and new entrants into the job market, this program will run from 2027 to 2029 and aims to equip Bahraini professionals with the necessary skills for future job demands.

This center will not only facilitate practical experiences but also ensure that the local workforce is well-positioned to meet challenges in today's rapidly evolving job landscape. Key areas covered will include artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, cybersecurity, sustainability, and financial services. By bridging the skills gap, Tamkeen and EY MENA aim to enhance the competitive edge of Bahrainis in a global market.

Insights from Tamkeen Leadership

Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, the General Director of Tamkeen, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "At Tamkeen, we are committed to directing our support towards initiatives that create enduring employment opportunities for Bahrainis in high-growth sectors that have a significant economic impact. This MoU with EY is pivotal in fostering local talent through advanced skills training and practical experience necessary for tomorrow's professions."

A Transformative Approach to Skill Development

As the nature of work continues to change under the influence of new technologies, Nader Rahimi, Assurance Partner at EY MENA, emphasized the importance of investing in local talent. He remarked, "This initiative with Tamkeen is designed not just to adapt to change but to empower the next generation to lead it. By building capabilities in critical areas like AI and digital transformation, we are paving the way for them to create long-term value for their communities and the larger regional economy."

Contribution to Sustainable Economic Growth

The initiative aligns with Tamkeen's strategic priorities for 2026, focusing on supporting projects with significant economic impact and enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector. Furthermore, it drives efforts to adapt skill sets to evolving market needs, thereby fostering growth and nurturing young enterprises.

The collaboration between Tamkeen and EY MENA is a testament to the commitment towards creating a sustainable, innovation-driven economy in Bahrain. By establishing this talent hub, both organizations not only aim to provide immediate employment opportunities but also strive to instill the skills and experiences required for professionals to navigate and thrive in the future business landscape.

In conclusion, this initiative underscores the urgent need for up-skilling and continuous professional development to ensure that Bahrain's workforce is prepared for the jobs of tomorrow, ensuring a robust economic footing for the future of the Kingdom.