AI Regulation Bill Faces Pushback as Bahrain Eyes Practical Alternatives

TDT | By Mohammed Darwish

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Existing laws already address many of the aims of Bahrain’s proposed AI regulation bill, the government has said in a written letter to Parliament, while suggesting a ‘Regulatory Sandbox’ to safely test new technologies. Officials argue that this approach avoids redundancy and keeps oversight practical.

In its letter, the government described artificial intelligence (AI) as a major force driving change in work and daily life. However, it highlighted several concerns with the draft law, urging a careful approach. Officials stressed the need for thorough research into AI’s impact on ethics, security, individual rights, and national interests.

The draft law, introduced by the Shura Council, includes 38 articles proposing a new authority to regulate AI, penalties for breaches, and compensation for damages caused by AI systems. However, the government believes that Bahrain’s current legal framework already addresses many of these points. Laws such as the Electronic Communications and Transactions Law (2018), the Personal Data Protection Law (2018), the Cybercrime Law (2014), and the Civil Code (2001) are said to provide sufficient coverage in areas such as data misuse, liability, and digital safety.

For instance, Article 57 of the Personal Data Protection Law already allows individuals to seek compensation for data mishandling, a measure also proposed in the draft law. Officials have suggested refining existing legislation rather than adding overlapping rules, which could create confusion.

The government also raised concerns over ambiguous language in the draft. Terms such as ‘processor’ are not clearly defined, leaving it uncertain whether they refer to people, machines, or both. Similarly, the term ‘user’ is seen as too narrow, excluding imported devices or vehicles that might fall under AI rules. Such vagueness, they argue, could make enforcement difficult, particularly in cases involving AI-driven mistakes.

The limited scope of the draft law has also been criticised. Unlike the Personal Data Protection Law, which applies to anyone using infrastructure in Bahrain regardless of location, the proposed bill would only apply to entities based in the Kingdom. Officials warned this restriction could leave international AI activities unregulated.

Another issue is the proposed role of the Cabinet in creating a detailed AI strategy. The government suggested that its role should focus on setting broad directions, with specialised bodies handling the finer details. This approach, they said, would allow for greater flexibility and efficiency.

The letter also emphasised that AI regulation worldwide is still in its early stages, with most countries relying on general policies rather than strict rules. Bahrain could adopt a forward-looking stance by introducing a ‘Regulatory Sandbox,’ allowing safe testing of AI technologies in controlled settings. This would help fine-tune rules while supporting growth in this area.

Officials further called for technical studies on the benefits and risks of AI, particularly its role in data processing, decision-making, and ethical challenges. They noted that such research would help balance opportunities for development with safeguards for public interests.

While acknowledging AI’s potential to transform industries, the government argued that the proposed legislation requires adjustments to ensure it complements existing laws. By addressing these issues, Bahrain could position itself as a regional leader in managing AI responsibly, encouraging progress while protecting its people.