In a strategic move to enhance its digital infrastructure, Bahrain has sought the expertise of Finland to develop advanced electronic travel identification systems. A delegation from Bahrain, led by His Excellency Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs, recently visited Finland to explore collaborative opportunities in digital identity solutions. Bahrain eTravel ID

This initiative aligns with Bahrain’s commitment to modernizing government services and accelerating its digital transformation agenda. During the visit, Bahraini officials engaged in high-level discussions with Finnish counterparts, including Permanent Secretary Matti Sarasmaa of the Ministry of the Interior and National Police Commissioner Ilkka Koskimäki. The talks focused on adopting international and European standards to ensure secure, seamless, and future-ready solutions for travelers .

Finland’s pioneering approach to digital travel identity, encompassing system architecture, security protocols, and implementation strategies, served as a model for Bahrain’s envisioned digital ID system. The collaboration aims to enable Bahraini citizens to utilize secure digital IDs stored on smartphones, thereby streamlining airport procedures and enhancing the overall travel experience. Bahrain eTravel ID

Shaikh Hisham lauded Finland’s innovation and reaffirmed Bahrain’s determination to adopt global best practices in passport and identity management. He stated,

“This collaboration marks a significant leap forward in our digital transformation journey. By embracing digital travel identities, we aim to deliver smarter, faster, and more convenient services to citizens and residents alike” .

This partnership not only reflects Bahrain’s ambitions to lead in smart governance but also lays the foundation for a digitally connected future where travel is more efficient and user-friendly.

Finland Leads with World’s First Digital Passport Pilot

Finland has emerged as a global leader in digital travel identity with its pioneering Digital Travel Credential (DTC) pilot program. Launched in August 2023, this initiative allows Finnish citizens traveling on Finnair flights to the UK to use a digital version of their passport stored on their smartphones. The DTC, developed in collaboration with the Finnish Border Guard, Finnair, the Finnish police, and airport operator Finavia, aims to streamline border control processes and enhance travel efficiency. Passengers participating in the pilot must register through a dedicated app, undergo identity verification with the police, and submit their travel information prior to departure. At Helsinki Airport, travelers can then use facial recognition technology to pass through border control, reducing wait times and minimizing the need for physical documents. This program aligns with the European Union’s broader goal of adopting digital identities, with plans to have at least 80% of EU citizens using digital ID for travel by 2030. Finland’s successful implementation of the DTC pilot not only showcases its commitment to innovation but also sets a precedent for other nations exploring the future of digital travel documentation.