About TRA

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) was established in 2002 promulgating the Telecommunications Law in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The Board of Directors oversees the activities of TRA led by its Chairperson, Eng. Mariam Ahmed Jamaan. The Acting General Director, Sh. Nasser bin Mohamed Al Khalifa, is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Authority.

TRA carries out its duties independently and in a transparent and non-discriminatory manner.

Ever since its inception, TRA’s focused on liberalizing and developing the telecoms sector by promoting an effective and fair competition between established operators and new entrants while protecting the interest of consumers.

The drive to pave for a more robust and dynamic telecoms industry continues with the change in market dynamics; this has fuelled an unstinting resolve to augment service levels and exceed expectations on all fronts. TRA as per the Third National Telecoms Plan is requested to address areas of disadvantage such as mobile service, ultra-fast broadband, international supply, digital security and internet eco-system.

TRA also believes in creating value; positioning telecommunications as a pillar of social and commercial growth for the Kingdom of Bahrain. Since 2002, more than 2,600 jobs were created – a 50% increase – and the industry has accounted to 4% of the GDP.

TRA’s culture is driven by business excellence and continuous learning; as it invests heavily in the training and development of its employees. An integral element of its internal frameworks is innovation – as TRA promotes innovation across all departments and levels.

TRA aims to ensure that the communications environment in the Kingdom meets consumer expectations – in return it has launched a number of initiatives. For example, Bahrain was the first country in the MENA region to introduce the Fixed Number Portability and in 2011, 22,000 consumers switched providers.

Also following negotiations with GCC nations, TRA introduced a cap on mobile roaming charges. Furthermore, it has insured that the regulatory environment stimulates competition; which in return has a led to a tariff reduction of an average of 25% across a number of services.

Leveraging the best technology and regulation to deliver a competitive and innovative industry remains a core mission of the Regulator. The TRA is constantly reviewing its regulations and framework based on a number of principles including consumer protection and fostering competition. Initiatives include regulating bulk messages and monitoring quality of telecommunications services.

Our Vision
A communications environment that enriches the social and commercial fabric of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Our Mission
To develop a competition led market for the provision of innovative communications services, available to all, which: encourages sustainable, economically efficient investment; respects the interests of consumers; fosters ecologically friendly initiatives; and supports the social and commercial welfare of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

To continue to build as an exemplar regulator within the region through thought leadership and to be the employer of choice by: investing in our people to develop a professional, passionate team; transparency and fairness in operations; and adherence to quality assurance.