ICT for knowledge-based economy: The case of Bahrain

In recent years, the role that knowledge plays in the development of nations has been widely debated in the literature. Not only knowledge has been viewed as an important factor of production, but also as an important source of wealth. As a consequence, the challenges facing nations today, including Muslim countries, are measured in their capabilities to absorb, apply and create knowledge. The aim of this paper is to highlight the importance of building a knowledge-based economy in Bahrain. In recent years, the government of Bahrain has been making efforts to convert its economy into a knowledge-based economy by introducing reforms in such areas as trade, finance, education, skills and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Also, the ICT industry in Bahrain has been growing rapidly which is important for building a knowledge society. Recently, Bahrain has gained number one status in the Arab World for ICT services, especially e-government.