Muharraq’s Municipal Council to propose tighter controls for unlicensed vendors

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Unlicensed street vendors in Muharraq, often criticised for causing blocked walkways and hygiene concerns, may soon find their trade subject to tighter controls.

The Municipal Council is preparing a proposal to establish clearer rules and introduce standardised vendor carts in an effort to bring order to the streets.

Discussions on these measures are expected at the Council’s upcoming meeting.

Street vending has long been a double-edged sword in Muharraq — offering a lifeline for many while presenting a headache for shopkeepers and residents.

Fair balance

The Council hopes to strike a fair balance, allowing vendors to earn a living while keeping public areas clean, accessible, and orderly.

Officials have pointed to issues such as market disruption, unfair competition, and safety risks as driving forces behind the proposed changes.

The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) has made it clear that expat workers are not allowed to engage in street vending, as no permits exist for this kind of work.

Foreigners found operating as vendors face fines of up to BD 5,000 and potential deportation.

Penalties

Employers who hire such workers without proper documentation are also liable for penalties.

For Bahraini vendors, unlicensed activity is a legal grey area.

Repeat offenders could face prosecution, and officials warn that such activity may even be classified as begging under Law No. (5) of 2007, which prohibits unauthorised selling of goods in public spaces.

The law also outlines rehabilitation measures for those caught, including assessments of their social and financial circumstances.

Inspections

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has stepped up inspections to crack down on unlicensed sellers, particularly those trading outside registered premises.

Offenders risk fines and further legal action, as authorities aim to ensure all sellers operate with proper documentation.

A review of existing rules, specifically Decision No. (1) of 2009, has shown that current regulations fall short.

There is no clear guidance on where vendors can work, what they can sell, or how violations should be handled.

The rules also overlook disabled vendors, despite requiring all sellers to pass a health fitness test.

The Council’s proposed changes seek to fill these gaps, with a focus on fairness and practicality.

By setting out clear boundaries and expectations, the new framework aims to give vendors a lawful and organised way to trade while ensuring public areas remain welcoming and safe for everyone.