Homes around the world are getting smarter. With new technologies emerging, the smart home market is finding innovative ways to bring a new level of convenience, security, and efficiency. And as such, property owners are becoming more mindful of integrating such technologies into their homes. Today, it’s not just about going for an interior design that fits aesthetic preferences and turns architectural spaces into a personal haven — it’s all about making properties functional and intelligent.

 

Bahrain’s promising potential

According to Fortune Business Insights, the smart home sector in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region could grow from $80.21 billion in 2022 to a substantial $388.28 billion by 2030. Bahrain, as pointed out by another research, is poised to experience higher growth than other countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).   

Data from Statista shows that in Bahrain, the smart home market is projected to have a revenue of $6.5 million in 2024. Until 2028, it could have an annual growth rate of 11.09%, hitting a market volume of $9.9 million by the said year. In terms of household penetration, the figures could hit 10.4% this year, reaching 15.8% by 2028.

“In Bahrain, customers are increasingly looking for smart home solutions that offer convenience, security, and energy efficiency. There is a rising demand for devices that can be controlled remotely via smartphones or voice assistants, allowing homeowners to monitor and manage their homes even when they are away. Additionally, there is a growing interest in smart home security systems that provide real-time alerts and surveillance capabilities,” Statista remarked in its report.

 

Key smart home solutions

Thanks to Bahrain’s small geographic size, high urbanization, stable economic environment, and strong government support, there is a conducive market for smart home solutions.

In the country, as with many other key economic powerhouses in the region, a wide range of devices and systems is increasingly becoming more accessible. One of the most popular is smart lighting systems, which allow users to control their home’s lighting with a few taps on the phone or with their voice.

Meanwhile, smart HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems help people optimize their property’s climate control. They not only ensure comfort but also help save energy. Smart home technology also extends to security and access control. With the help of smart locks, cameras, and alarms, people can keep their homes safe and secure.

Smart appliances, especially those used in kitchens and laundry areas, make everyday life easier. On the other hand, entertainment systems like smart TVs and audio systems take home entertainment to a higher notch. 

With the advancement of AI, many opportunities are rising. For instance, artificial intelligence (AI) can be used for smart health monitoring, energy management, and personalized experiences based on homeowners’ habits and preferences.

 

A glimpse of a smarter future

Making a home smarter is an important trend shaping Bahrain’s real estate scene. Batelco (or Bahrain Telecommunication Company) is one of the leading entities advancing its growth. 

In November 2023, during Cityscape Bahrain, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Naseej, a prominent real estate and development company in Bahrain, to equip the latter’s Nasayim residential project located in Arad, Muharraq, with smart home solutions. This will help homeowners enjoy improved convenience, efficient power consumption, enhanced security, and personalized settings.

“We are confident that these smart-enabled homes will provide high value to their owners for many years to come without incurring the hassle of modifying or redesigning them in the years ahead, paving the way for a more prosperous future in the housing sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” Amin Al Arrayed, CEO of Naseej, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Maitham Abdulla, Batelco’s Chief Operating Officer, stated, “Everyone today dreams about owning homes that are smart enabled, and Batelco is committed to delivering the technology that will meet the aspirations and needs of Bahraini homeowners. The project combines real estate and innovative technological solutions, and we are looking forward to working with Naseej, unifying our efforts to deliver smart-enabled villas in line with the demands of a modern-day lifestyle,” he added.  

In the 2023 Cityscape Bahrain, the two have set up a dedicated zone, allowing potential buyers to test and experience the features of the “Nasayim Arad” homes.

With partnerships like this, Bahrain’s real estate industry is on the right track toward a smarter future.