Bahrain has emerged as a global leader in both internet penetration and quality, according to the 5th annual Digital Quality of Life Index (DQL) by Surfshark. The Gulf nation has achieved a remarkable milestone by ensuring that internet networks cover 100 percent of its population. This exceptional level of internet penetration places Bahrain at the pinnacle of the world rankings, highlighting the nation’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and providing universal access to the internet.
Bahrain: Impressive internet quality
According to the report, not only does Bahrain lead in terms of coverage, but the quality of internet services in the kingdom is also commendable. Surfshark’s DQL Index reveals that internet quality in Bahrain surpasses the global average by a significant margin, boasting a seven percent higher quality rating. This achievement reflects the nation’s investment in cutting-edge telecommunications infrastructure and commitment to delivering high-speed internet to its citizens.
Surfshark’s DQL Index assesses countries across five key pillars to provide a comprehensive view of digital quality of life. While Bahrain performed exceptionally well in some areas, there were areas for improvement.
- E-infrastructure: Bahrain ranked 36th in e-infrastructure, indicating a strong foundation for internet access and readiness to leverage Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
- E-security: Bahrain faced challenges in e-security, ranking 68th. This pillar evaluates a country’s preparedness to counter cybercrime and the strength of its data protection laws.
- Internet quality: The kingdom secured the 48th position in terms of internet quality, which reflects the user experience and performance of internet services.
- Internet affordability: Bahrain placed 57th in internet affordability, indicating that while internet access is reasonably priced, there is room for improvement.
- E-government: Bahrain’s e-government services were found to be above the global average, underlining the nation’s readiness to provide digital government services.
Regional comparison
In comparison to neighbouring countries, Bahrain performed admirably, said the report. Saudi Arabia secured the 45th position in the overall index, while Qatar followed closely at 48th place. In the Asian region, Bahrain held the 16th position, with Singapore leading the region.
Bahrain offers fixed internet with an average speed of 83 Mbps, making it highly competitive globally. In contrast, the world’s fastest fixed internet, found in Singapore, reaches speeds of up to 300 Mbps. For mobile internet, Bahrain averages 202 Mbps, whereas the UAE claims the fastest mobile internet at 310 Mbps.
In terms of affordability, Bahrain’s internet services are roughly on par with the global average. For fixed broadband, Bahrainis need to work 2 hours and 17 minutes a month to afford it, which is less than the global average but more than countries like Romania, which boasts the world’s most affordable fixed internet at just 18 minutes of work per month. For mobile internet, Bahrainis require 1 hour, 21 minutes, and 24 seconds a month, which is five times more than Luxembourg, where mobile internet is most affordable, requiring only 16 minutes of work per month.
Bahrain’s e-security ranking improved significantly, climbing 24 places from the previous year to secure the 68th position. This progress demonstrates the nation’s commitment to countering cyber threats and strengthening data protection laws.
Surfshark’s DQL Index highlights Bahrain’s remarkable achievements in internet penetration and quality. While challenges persist, such as improving internet affordability and enhancing e-security, Bahrain’s commitment to technological advancement and digital accessibility stands as an exemplary model for nations worldwide.
