Easier driving abroad for Bahrain licence holders

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Citizens and residents of Bahrain may soon be able to drive in some of the world’s most developed and high-income countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Canada, using Bahraini driving licences.

This comes as the Shura Council prepares to discuss Bahrain’s accession to the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic this Sunday, a move that could unlock significant international privileges for Bahraini drivers.

Parliament Approval

The proposal, which Parliament approved earlier this month, aligns Bahrain with global road safety standards and simplifies international travel for drivers.

Officials have praised the initiative as a timely step in addressing the growing need for cross-border mobility.

Joining the convention would enable Bahrain to integrate its traffic systems with those of major global economies, enhancing the convenience and safety of international driving.

Draft Review

The draft law, attached to Decree No. (43) of 2024, is currently under review by the Shura Council’s Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee.

Chairman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh has tasked the committee with studying the proposal and making recommendations.

During its meeting on November 24th, the committee examined legal opinions and supporting documents, including a memorandum from advisers detailing the agreement’s implications.

Legal Compliance

Legal and legislative authorities have confirmed the draft’s compliance with constitutional requirements.

The Ministry of Interior has also highlighted its importance, noting that the agreement complements Bahrain’s existing adherence to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968).

Together, these conventions form the backbone of international driving systems, offering Bahraini drivers broader access to global road networks.

Convention Details

The 1949 convention, which spans 35 articles and seven chapters, outlines shared rules for road safety, vehicle standards, and international driving permits.

Its annexes detail technical requirements, such as vehicle specifications and customs protocols, designed to streamline cross-border movement.

By joining, Bahrain would enhance its alignment with these internationally recognised traffic systems.

Stronger Ties

The move also strengthens Bahrain’s relationships with other convention members, including several Arab nations like the UAE, Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan, as well as major economies worldwide.

Officials emphasised the practical benefits for drivers, such as reduced bureaucratic barriers and simplified compliance with international driving rules.

Next Steps

The Shura Council’s committee has recommended approving the draft law, calling it a critical step in positioning Bahrain within global traffic networks.

The full council will now debate the proposal, which is expected to bolster Bahrain’s standing on the international stage while providing tangible benefits for its residents and citizens.