Barcelona:The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture of Bahrain took part in the Smart City Expo World Congress 2026, held in Spain from November 3-5. The Bahraini delegation included Shaikh Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for Municipalities Affairs, and Yousif Mohammed Al Qassab, Special Projects Advisor at the ministry.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the congress gathers officials, experts, and representatives from governments, institutions, and international companies focused on smart city development and urban innovation.
Shaikh Mohamed bin Ahmed emphasized the ministry's dedication to enhancing municipal services through modern technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve public facility management, boost efficiency and sustainability, and fulfill the needs of citizens and residents.
The undersecretary noted that the congress offers a platform to explore the latest solutions and applications in smart infrastructure, waste management, resource efficiency, and sustainable urban planning. It also offers opportunities for collaboration with cities, institutions, and international firms specializing in these fields.
Shaikh Mohamed bin Ahmed further elaborated on the ministry's ongoing initiatives to promote innovation and digital transformation. He highlighted the significance of integrating urban planning with environmental sustainability to elevate service standards and bolster the competitiveness of Bahraini cities.
Organized by Fira de Barcelona, the Smart City Expo World Congress is a premier global event dedicated to urban innovation. The 2026 edition is anticipated to draw representatives from over 990 cities across 138 countries, with more than 27,000 participants, over 1,190 exhibitors, and upwards of 600 speakers, including international experts and officials.
This year's congress, under the theme 'Urban Solutions, Real Impact,' addresses topics such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, energy, the environment, governance, sustainable mobility, and infrastructure development, along with innovative solutions for sustainable urban development.