Dr. Hashim S. Hussein has been at the forefront of driving Bahrain’s entrepreneurial ecosystem for over two decades, leading the UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) since its establishment in 1996. In this interview with Bahrain This Month, Dr. Hussein sheds light on UNIDO’s initiatives, Bahrain’s achievements in entrepreneurship and the future of industrial growth.
Dr. Hussein, could you give us an overview of your career and how you came to head the UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain?
It has been an honour to head this office since we established it in 1996. My background is in international management, having completed my Master’s and PhD in France, followed by further doctoral research in the US.
I joined UNIDO in 1991 and became the first industrial coordinator for the Gulf region. We quickly realised that private sector development was key to enhancing industrialisation efforts here, which led to the creation of the ITPO in Bahrain. Today, we are part of a global network, with offices in eight countries including Japan, Italy, Germany, China, South Korea and Russia. Our focus is on mobilising investment and technology, and from Bahrain, we launched what’s known as the ‘Bahrain Model,’ now being implemented globally.
You recently met with Bahrain’s Minister of Social Development. Can you tell us how UNIDO is collaborating with the government on sustainable development?
We work closely with multiple ministries, particularly the Ministry of Finance and Economy, to align our efforts with Bahrain’s broader development goals. Over the years, this collaboration has expanded to include the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Supreme Council for Women, and many universities. Our work is rooted in education, innovation and entrepreneurship, as we believe that fostering the right mindset early on is essential for sustainable development.
UNIDO Bahrain has played a crucial role in supporting youth and women. Are there any success stories you’d like to highlight?
One of our most celebrated success stories is Mrs. Huda Janahi, a trailblazing entrepreneur who entered our programme in 2001. She gained international recognition when President George H. W. Bush praised her as a role model for women globally during the World Economic Forum in Davos. This is just one example of how our initiatives have empowered women and youth in Bahrain, thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s vision for economic restructuring, which prioritises these groups. Our efforts have helped millions of youth and women across the world, stemming from this initiative.
How do UNIDO’s projects in Bahrain align with broader regional and international goals?
Our focus is to support local development while also connecting Bahrain to the international community. We work on a range of programmes, particularly under the theme of ‘progress by innovation,’ which involves partnerships with organisations like the Economic and Social Commission of West Asia (ESCWA) and initiatives with countries like India, China and Italy.
The Bahrain Model, which addresses key challenges for SMEs such as access to finance and links between education and entrepreneurship, has become a globally recognised system, adapted to different regions, from the Arab world to Africa and beyond.
What role do investment and technology transfer play in Bahrain’s economic growth, and how does your office contribute?
Bahrain’s strategic position as a financial hub makes it an ideal location for facilitating investment and technology transfer. We work closely with the Ministry of Finance and international organisations to attract the right investments. We also focus on developing the local ecosystem by fostering partnerships between ministries, NGOs, financial institutions and universities. This holistic approach ensures that entrepreneurs have access to both the financial resources and technological tools they need to succeed.
How does industrial growth in Bahrain contribute to job creation, especially post-pandemic?
Industrial growth is critical to job creation, especially as Bahrain continues to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution. We are working on programmes focused on artificial intelligence, smart manufacturing and digitalisation.
Our partnerships with China, particularly with the city of Shenzhen, and India, through the Confederation of Indian Industry, are part of our efforts to bring cutting-edge technologies to Bahrain. These initiatives aim to help local industries transition to smart manufacturing, which will not only create jobs but also increase the competitiveness of Bahraini businesses globally.
How important is fostering regional cooperation between Arab and African countries in UNIDO’s mission?
Cooperation between Arab and African countries is a key focus area for us. Historically, there has been strong cultural and trade connections between these regions. Over the past 40 years, we’ve seen a growing number of dynamic entrepreneurs from both sides.
We are working to build institutions and programmes that encourage joint investment, research and education, particularly through platforms like our Virtual Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub and partnerships with the Arab Bank for Economic Development for Africa (BADEA).
What do you see as the most pressing challenges for SMEs in Bahrain today, and how is UNIDO helping to address them?
Bahrain has a vibrant start-up ecosystem, but the challenge lies in ensuring the growth and sustainability of these businesses. We are focusing on helping SMEs embrace digitalisation and artificial intelligence to stay competitive. Additionally, given Bahrain’s smaller market size, it is crucial for local entrepreneurs to look beyond borders. Our focus is also on sectors like the creative and orange economy, which are among the fastest-growing industries globally and highly relevant to Bahrain’s talented youth.
As a global leader in investment and technology, what emerging industries do you think hold the most potential for Bahrain’s future economic growth?
Industries tied to digitalisation, artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing are where we see the most potential. The education system needs to evolve to match these trends, ensuring that the future workforce is equipped with the necessary skills. We are already working with international partners, such as the International Youth and Innovation Organisation in China, to bring these technologies to Bahrain. The focus now is on aligning these efforts with global trends to drive Bahrain’s future growth.
Is there anything else you would like entrepreneurs in Bahrain to know about UNIDO’s work?
Our doors are always open. We work with the entire ecosystem in Bahrain, from government ministries to NGOs and universities, to support both emerging and established entrepreneurs. A unique initiative we’re running is the School Olympics for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which encourages students to think globally while developing solutions for local challenges. This programme is part of our broader effort to embed entrepreneurship in the education system and prepare the next generation of innovators.