Tamkeen and EY MENA Sign MoU to Build Bahrain Talent Hub and Create 125 Jobs

Tamkeen, Bahrain's Labour Fund, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EY MENA on November 2, 2026 to establish an EY Talent Hub in Bahrain and create 125 jobs for Bahrainis over three years. Aktien reported that the signing took place on the sidelines of Gateway Gulf 2026.

What the EY Talent Hub Will Do

Once established, the hub is expected to support clients in Bahrain and across the wider region by delivering specialized professional services, according to the announcement. A three-year program will be implemented from 2027 to 2029, focused on attracting and developing Bahraini talent, particularly fresh graduates and new entrants to the labor market.

The roles covered span audit, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. The program also aims to equip Bahraini talent with practical experience and skills in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, cybersecurity, sustainability and financial services.

Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, Chief Executive of Tamkeen, said: "At Tamkeen, we remain committed to directing our support towards initiatives that create sustainable employment opportunities for Bahrainis in sectors with strong growth potential and significant economic impact."

Nader Rahimi, EY MENA Assurance Partner, said the initiative with Tamkeen comes with the support of the Bahrain Economic Development Board. "By developing skills across areas such as AI, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainability, we aim to prepare the next generation not only to adapt to change, but to lead through it," he said.

EY brings together capabilities across audit, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions, combining professional expertise with experience in technology and transformation. The firm's Irish arm generated €880 million in revenue for the year ending June 30, a 4.4% increase, The Irish Times reported, and plans to invest in AI and technology.

Tamkeen's Earlier Partnerships and Funding

In July 2026, Tamkeen and M42 signed an MoU to collaborate on healthcare initiatives, including launching Amana Academy, a simulation-based training center at Amana Healthcare Bahrain, Biz Bahrain reported.

In May 2026, Tamkeen's Board of Directors approved a grant and financing bundle to support 7,250 Bahraini companies affected by Iranian aggression, according to Biz Bahrain. The three-track initiative provides grants for infrastructure damage and operating expenses, plus financing for liquidity.

The new initiative aligns with Tamkeen's strategic priorities for 2026, which focus on supporting initiatives with significant economic impact, enhancing private sector competitiveness, aligning skills with labor market needs, and adopting innovative approaches to stimulate the growth and expansion of startups.

When the Bahrain Program Starts

The three-year program under the MoU is set to be implemented from 2027 to 2029.