Batelco Partners with SubCom to Build Bahrain’s High-Speed Submarine Cable
Batelco, part of the Beyon Group, has partnered with SubCom to design, manufacture, and install the Batelco SubCom submarine cable Bahrain project, also known as the Al Khaleej Cable. This advanced system will branch from the SEA-ME-WE 6 network, connecting Bahrain to Qatar, the UAE, and Oman. Together, the companies aim to enhance regional connectivity, upgrade data capacity, and support Bahrain’s growing role as a digital hub.
Expanding Bahrain’s Regional Network
The 1,400-kilometer Al Khaleej Cable will transform data exchange in the Gulf. With improved network performance, lower latency, and higher capacity, the project supports Bahrain’s growing role as a digital hub. Batelco’s investment in fiber-optic infrastructure reflects its commitment to driving technological innovation across the region.
“We’re proud to collaborate with SubCom on this milestone project,” said Hani Askar, Chief Global Business Officer at Batelco. “The Al Khaleej Cable adds diversity and resilience to routes connecting the Middle East with Europe and Asia.”
Advancing Global Connectivity
Batelco joined the SEA-ME-WE 6 cable consortium in February 2023 to enhance its global network presence. The SEA-ME-WE 6 spans 21,700 kilometers and offers one of the lowest latencies available between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Western Europe. Once complete, it will handle more than 100 terabits per second, giving Bahrain a significant boost in international data capacity.
Manufactured and Managed by SubCom
SubCom, located in Newington, New Hampshire, is producing all cable components for both the SEA-ME-WE 6 and Al Khaleej systems. “Our team is already manufacturing the equipment needed to complete one of the most extensive subsea cable projects ever built,” said Benoit Duguet, SubCom Project Manager.
The installation will be handled by SubCom’s Reliance Class vessels. Both the SEA-ME-WE 6 connectivity to Bahrain and the Al Khaleej Cable are on track for completion in the second quarter of 2026.