Manama: The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, in coordination with the Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) and the Bahrain Property Development Association (BaPDA), held a workshop to raise awareness about the regulatory and technical procedures related to the 'Benayat' national building permit system. The event was attended by a wide range of developers and investors.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for Municipal Affairs at the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, emphasised the ministry's ongoing efforts to enhance its digital services and improve the customer experience through the adoption of advanced electronic systems that streamline procedures and expedite transactions. He stated that the Benayat platform stands out as one of the key initiatives that have contributed to improving the quality and efficiency of building permit services.
The undersecretary noted that the workshop aimed to familiarise participants with how the system operates and to present upcoming service developments. He emphasised the importance of continued collaboration with professional and civil organisations to support awareness and keep pace with service improvements.
During the workshop, the iGA presented a detailed overview of the Benayat system, including the services available to property owners, such as permits for minor additions, renovation and fencing, parcel subdivision and amalgamation, and change of use. The presentation also highlighted the interactive Bahrain map.
Aaref Ahmed Hejres, Chairman of BaPDA, commended the ministry's efforts to simplify procedures and improve the quality and efficiency of services provided to citizens and residents. He emphasised the importance of the ongoing partnership between the association and the ministry in supporting the real estate and investment sectors and enhancing Bahrain's attractiveness to investors.
The Benayat system is the national unified platform for issuing building permits across the Kingdom of Bahrain. It allows property owners and engineering offices to submit applications, track progress, pay fees, and access relevant regulations via a comprehensive interactive map. The system is supported by the National Geographic Information System, which includes over 300 spatial data layers serving more than 30 public and private entities. This integration helps accelerate processes, improve service quality, support urban planning, and enhance coordination among relevant entities to achieve sustainable development goals.