Bahrain Launches "Get Airports Ready for Disaster" (GARD) Project to Enhance Emergency Preparedness in Civil Aviation Sector

The Government of Bahrain, under the leadership of General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Civil Defence Council, has launched the "Get Airports Ready for Disaster" (GARD) project to enhance national capabilities in emergency readiness within the civil aviation sector. The project aims to develop integrated response plans for natural and man-made hazards and update crisis management protocols at airports to international standards. The initiative reflects the government's vision to build a more efficient and resilient national response system.

Key Takeaways:

• The GARD project is a collaborative effort between the Government of Bahrain, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and global logistics leader DHL.
• The project aims to enhance national capabilities in emergency readiness within the civil aviation sector by developing integrated response plans for natural and man-made hazards and by updating crisis management protocols at airports in line with internationally recognized logistical standards.
• The project will conduct field assessment workshops, provide specialized training for emergency response personnel, and develop an emergency response plan for Bahrain International Airport.
• The GARD initiative represents a successful model of international cooperation that contributes to enhancing the efficiency and safety of the civil aviation sector in the Kingdom.
• Bahrain International Airport becomes the first airport in the Arabian Gulf region to join this global program, which aims to strengthen the airport's ability to respond to emergencies and natural disasters with efficiency and resilience.
• The project provides tools for readiness assessment, specialized emergency plans, and practical simulation exercises, contributing to strengthening national security systems and public safety.

Statistics:

• The GARD project is a global initiative launched in response to lessons learned from natural disasters that have impacted airport operations in various regions around the world.
• The project is led by Commander Lieutenant General Tariq bin Hassan Al Hassan, Chief of Public Security and Chairman of the National Committee for Civil Emergency Management.
• The initiative represents a collaborative effort between government entities and international partners, with DHL providing pioneering support and the UNDP providing technical and professional support.
• Bahrain International Airport is the first airport in the Arabian Gulf region to join the GARD program, with the goal of strengthening its response to emergencies and natural disasters.

Sources:

• 04 August 2025 (Bahrain News Agency)
• General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Civil Defence Council
• Lieutenant General Tariq bin Hassan Al Hassan, Chief of Public Security and Chairman of the National Committee for Civil Emergency Management
• Hussain Al Shuail, Acting Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications
• Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC)