Bahrain’s Cabinet, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at Gudaibiya Palace on 12 October 2026, reviewed a broad agenda covering national priorities, economic planning, labour market performance and regional affairs. Ministers discussed the address delivered by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at the opening of the latest parliamentary session, stressing the government’s commitment to turning royal guidance into practical programmes. The meeting also examined public service improvements, Bahrain’s investment environment, major events hosted in the Kingdom, and updates from ministerial committees. Cabinet members additionally addressed security developments affecting the region and reviewed reports on Bahrain’s participation in international forums.
Royal guidance and future planning
The Cabinet welcomed the King’s remarks to the Shura Council and Council of Representatives and said government work would continue in partnership with the Legislative Authority to advance national priorities.
Ministers backed plans to mark next year as the Year of Isa bin Salman and noted preparations for Bahrain’s future Economic Vision, which is intended to connect economic growth, sustainability and citizens’ aspirations. The Cabinet also noted the designation of 1 June as the Day of Pledge and Loyalty, an annual official holiday.
Labour targets and approvals
The Cabinet approved a draft decision related to municipal councils and reviewed labour market indicators for the third quarter of 2026. The figures showed that 72% of the annual target to employ 25,000 Bahrainis had been reached, while 71% of the target to train 15,000 Bahrainis had been achieved.
Other approvals covered government service improvements, reports from the Education and Training Quality Authority, and responses to proposals submitted by the Council of Representatives.
Events, rights record and national talent
Ministers praised the organisation of the Made in GCC Forum and Exhibition, the Future FinTech Forum and the Innovation in the Social Housing Sector Conference. The Cabinet also welcomed Bahrain’s continued placement in the highest tier of the U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report for the ninth year in a row and congratulated Bahraini engineers on their national day.
Regional issues and ministerial reports
The Cabinet condemned attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi militia against Saudi Arabia and extended condolences to countries whose citizens were killed in the attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
It also reviewed reports on Bahrain’s participation in meetings and events covering Pakistan relations, GCC economic and labour cooperation, food security, energy markets, tourism, urban development, occupational safety and social responsibility.