The MEET ICT Conference and BITEX Exhibition will take place from December 3-5, 2024, at the Gulf Convention Centre in Bahrain. The event is organized by the Bahrain Technology Companies Society (BTECH) in collaboration with Worksmart for Events Management. Its aim is to foster advancements in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) while spotlighting the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in driving digital transformation across various sectors.
The conference will begin with welcome remarks from BTECH representatives, followed by speeches under the patronage of Bahraini government officials, recognition of sponsors, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the BITEX Exhibition.
Tareq Fakhroo, Chairman of the Bahrain Technology Companies Society (BTECH), commented: “Since 2009, MEET ICT and BITEX have excelled in providing a platform that unites diverse communities under one roof. At Bahrain Technology Companies Society (BTECH), we are committed to supporting the ICT sector and expanding its potential both within and beyond the Kingdom through our initiatives. I am, therefore, pleased to invite you to join us for the 12th Edition of MEET ICT and BITEX in 2024. This year, we highlight how Artificial Intelligence continues to drive the success of Digital Transformation. I encourage everyone to seize this invaluable opportunity for your business and to be part of such an incredible event.”
BITEX showcases innovative solutions, products, and services in the ICT domain from industry-leading companies and startups. BITEX aims to serve as a catalyst for business growth by connecting participants with high-profile investors, government decision-makers, and fellow innovators.
From immersive panel discussions covering critical topics like AI’s role in cybersecurity, healthcare, education, and sustainable smart cities, to hands-on workshops that equip participants with practical skills in AI ethics, professional development, and generative AI tools, MEET ICT and BITEX 2024 is designed to empower attendees in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Panel Discussions
AI’s Role in Digital Transformation:
This panel will address how AI technology is reshaping business operations by optimizing processes, increasing efficiencies, and creating new value. Key points include the roles of machine learning, predictive analytics, and intelligent automation in transforming traditional business models. By automating routine tasks and providing insights from large data sets, AI empowers organizations to make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and remain competitive in a fast-evolving market. This discussion aims to showcase practical examples of AI-driven transformation and provide insights on implementing these technologies within organizations.
Empowering Women in the AI Era:
This focused panel will support women in tech by discussing the challenges and opportunities for women in AI-related fields. It will emphasize strategies for inclusivity and the benefits of diverse perspectives within AI development and application. Increasing representation in AI ensures a more holistic approach to AI design and deployment, helping to mitigate biases and promote innovation. The goal is to inspire action toward gender inclusivity and create pathways for more women to enter and thrive in AI roles.
Securing the Future: Harnessing the Power of AI in Cybersecurity:
This panel will explore how AI tools can enhance cybersecurity by detecting threats, analyzing risk patterns, and responding to incidents more rapidly. Topics may include anomaly detection, real-time threat intelligence, and predictive security measures. As cyber threats grow in complexity, AI offers sophisticated tools to defend against attacks, making it a critical area for organizations that handle sensitive data or provide essential services. Attendees will learn about AI applications that strengthen cybersecurity and improve resilience against digital threats.
Ethics in AI for Financial Services Applications:
This discussion will tackle ethical concerns surrounding AI in finance, such as data privacy, transparency, and bias in decision-making algorithms. Given the sensitive nature of financial services, ethical AI practices are essential to maintaining consumer trust and ensuring regulatory compliance. The panel aims to guide financial organizations in adopting responsible AI practices that prioritize fairness, accountability, and transparency in their operations.
Generative AI and the Future of Work:
This panel will delve into the transformative impact of generative AI on employment, examining how AI can both replace and create jobs, automate tasks, and redefine workplace roles. Generative AI holds potential for automation in fields like content creation, design, and coding, reshaping how work is performed and the skills required. Insights on workforce adaptation strategies will be provided, along with a highlight of new roles and opportunities emerging from AI’s capabilities.
AI in Telecoms: Unleashing the Power of AI:
This session will discuss the integration of AI in telecommunications, focusing on applications like network optimization, customer service automation, and predictive maintenance. Telecom companies can use AI to enhance service quality, anticipate issues before they impact customers, and improve operational efficiency. The discussion will show how AI can elevate service standards, reduce costs, and drive innovation within telecoms.
AI and Smart Cities of Tomorrow:
This panel explores AI’s role in developing smarter urban infrastructure, such as traffic management, waste reduction, and public safety systems. Smart city initiatives powered by AI improve the quality of urban life, making cities more sustainable and efficient. The aim is to inspire urban planners and technology providers to incorporate AI solutions that address urban challenges.
AI for Energy: AI in the Oil and Gas Sector:
This panel focuses on how AI can improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in oil and gas operations through predictive maintenance, supply chain optimization, and real-time analytics. In an energy-dependent world, AI helps companies minimize environmental impact and optimize production processes. The goal is to provide energy companies with actionable strategies for using AI to enhance operational resilience and efficiency.
AI and Industry 4.0: The Next Frontier in Organizations:
This discussion will cover AI-driven technologies enabling Industry 4.0 transformations, such as automation, IoT, and digital twins in manufacturing. AI’s impact on Industry 4.0 is vast, with applications that streamline production and enhance product quality. The aim is to equip manufacturing leaders with insights on adopting AI-driven Industry 4.0 strategies for competitive advantage.
AI’s Impact on EdTech:
This panel will explore how AI is reshaping education through personalized learning, intelligent tutoring systems, and data-driven insights into student performance. AI-enhanced EdTech provides more adaptive and inclusive educational experiences. The aim is to demonstrate EdTech solutions that make learning more effective, accessible, and engaging.
AI and Innovation in Healthcare:
This discussion will address AI’s potential in diagnostics, personalized medicine, and healthcare logistics, highlighting how AI improves patient outcomes. AI-powered healthcare technologies streamline clinical workflows, reduce errors, and enable personalized treatment options. The goal is to offer healthcare providers insights into integrating AI solutions that enhance patient care and operational efficiency.
Ahmed Al Hujairy, Group CEO of Worksmart for Events Management, commented: “Artificial Intelligence is a key driver of digital transformation, increasingly becoming part of our everyday lives and equipping businesses with the tools to develop more effective digital strategies. For 15 consecutive years, we have organized the MEET ICT Conference and BITEX Exhibition to provide a space where tech enthusiasts gather annually to share knowledge, showcase innovations, and explore business opportunities in the Middle East.”
“This year, industry leaders from the ICT sector will come together to discuss the latest advancements in technology. It’s an exciting initiative, fully dedicated to delivering a top-tier experience and unparalleled opportunities for all participants,” Al Hujairy added.
MEET ICT and BITEX offers a series of specialized sessions designed to provide deep insights and practical skills for navigating the transformative world of Artificial Intelligence. As AI continues to reshape industries and redefine how we work, learn, and connect, staying at the forefront of these advancements is essential. These workshops are crafted to empower participants, whether by guiding them through ethical AI frameworks, enhancing their professional development, or exploring cutting-edge AI tools like ChatGPT.
Each workshop will be led by industry experts and is structured to be interactive, equipping participants with both foundational knowledge and actionable techniques to apply AI solutions confidently and responsibly in their organizations. Embrace this opportunity to reskill, gain hands-on experience, and become a part of the growing AI-driven future.
Workshops
AI Ethics:
This workshop offers practical guidance on ethical considerations for AI development and deployment, covering issues such as fairness, accountability, and transparency. Ethics is paramount in AI to ensure technologies are used responsibly and benefit society as a whole. The workshop equips participants with frameworks to create ethically sound AI applications and strategies.
AI Professional Development: Digital Learning & Innovation:
Tailored to help professionals upskill for AI, this workshop emphasizes digital literacy, innovation techniques, and ongoing education in AI advancements. As AI technology evolves, continuous learning is essential for professionals to stay competitive. It will empower attendees with tools and resources to continually adapt to AI trends and demands in their fields.
ChatGPT: A Hands-on Guide to AI Challenges and Opportunities:
This hands-on workshop provides practical training on ChatGPT and similar generative AI models, covering their applications, limitations, and best practices. Understanding how to work with AI language models like ChatGPT is valuable across industries that involve customer service, content creation, and data analysis. Attendees will gain proficiency in leveraging generative AI for business and operational tasks.
Reskilling in the Age of AI:
This session centers on the importance of reskilling, especially in industries where AI automation is likely to disrupt existing job roles. With AI transforming the nature of work, equipping workers with new skills is essential for maintaining workforce resilience. The reskilling workshop provides actionable insights on identifying skills gaps, developing training programs, and ensuring long-term career adaptability for AI-driven workplaces.
Attending MEET ICT and BITEX 2024 offers unparalleled opportunities to stay at the cutting edge of digital transformation and artificial intelligence advancements. This event brings together top industry leaders, government officials, and influential innovators, providing a unique platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. This year’s emphasis on Bahrain’s Vision 2030 highlights the event’s commitment to establishing Bahrain as a regional AI hub, aligning with national goals to drive forward-thinking innovation and economic resilience. By attending, visitors will gain insight into transformative tech solutions, connect with key decision-makers, and explore Bahrain’s growing market for digital innovation.
