Manama: The Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) has introduced a new service, the Parcel Zoning or Change of Zoning service, aimed at improving the efficiency of zoning assessments and approvals. This initiative aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and streamline the re-engineering of services. The new service allows for a thorough assessment of the zoning or potential changes to zoning for parcels, following technical and planning studies in coordination with relevant entities. According to Urban Planning and Development Authority, the updated service has significantly reduced the processing time from 82 days to a range of 31 to 44 working days, depending on the application status. Additionally, the number of required documents has been decreased by 66%, alongside a reduction in the service-level agreement timeframe. These changes are designed to streamline procedures, reduce time and effort for customers, and enhance the overall experience for beneficiaries. Ahme d Abdulaziz Al Khayat, Chief Executive Officer of UPDA, highlighted that these services are part of the authority's commitment to improving procedural efficiency and accelerating transaction completion. This, in turn, contributes to the improved quality and efficiency of services offered by the authority. Al Khayat emphasized that the development demonstrates UPDA's dedication to reducing time and effort for institutions while strengthening the effectiveness of the work system. As part of broader government efforts to develop and re-engineer services, more than 1,300 government services have been documented, translated, and published. Out of these, approximately 800 services are undergoing development and re-engineering across various sectors. These efforts are informed by feedback and proposals received through the National System for Suggestions and Complaints, Tawasul, as well as investor feedback and secret shopper reports that evaluate government services. The launch of guidance manuals and service-leve l agreements further supports these initiatives. These comprehensive efforts are aimed at improving procedural efficiency, enhancing service quality, strengthening the beneficiary experience, and supporting the government's digital transformation journey.
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