Manama:The fourth GCC Housing Week and the second Innovation Summit in the Social Housing Sector 2026 have concluded at Exhibition World Bahrain. These events were held from September 29 to October 3 under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning and Eskan Bank, in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
According to Bahrain News Agency, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, Amna bint Ahmed Al Rumaihi, stated that the outcomes of these events provide a basis for continued development in the housing sector, enhancing public and private sector integration to offer innovative and sustainable housing options prioritizing citizens' needs and quality of life.
Minister Al Rumaihi emphasized the significance of housing and urban development in Bahrain's comprehensive development process, which is supported by directives from HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The summit featured more than 20 sessions with over 60 speakers from various countries, and produced 14 recommendations aimed at developing the social housing system.
The minister highlighted the need for innovative housing models, strategic partnerships with financial institutions, and integration of government roles in social housing. Recommendations called for modular construction technologies, proactive planning, and digital transformation to improve service efficiency.
Additionally, the summit launched projects to diversify housing options, including a partnership with Naseej for 2,500 housing units in Khalifa City and projects in Salman City, Askar, and Hamad Town. The exhibition featured over 40 entities, showcasing projects and financing options, with 68 agreements signed reflecting private sector involvement.
Minister Al Rumaihi also noted the importance of youth empowerment through the GCC Housing Hackathon, encouraging young Bahrainis and GCC nationals to develop sustainable housing solutions. The minister expressed gratitude to partners and sponsors for their contributions, marking Bahrain's ability to host specialized international events.