Bahrain Moves Closer to Joining the 1949 Road Traffic Convention

Ashen Tharaka

bahrain January 19, 2025

TDT | Manama

Bahraini citizens and residents may soon gain the ability to drive in high-income and developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Canada, using their Bahraini driving licenses. This significant milestone follows Parliament’s recent approval of Bahrain’s accession to the 1949 Road Traffic Convention, a proposal set for discussion in the Shura Council this Sunday.

Enhanced Global Mobility

The move aims to align Bahrain with international road safety standards while facilitating cross-border mobility for its drivers. Accession to the convention would integrate Bahrain’s traffic systems with those of global economic leaders, enhancing convenience and safety for those traveling abroad.

Parliamentary Approval

The proposal, approved by Parliament earlier this month, underscores the importance of international cooperation in road safety and travel. Officials have welcomed the initiative as a timely response to the growing demand for streamlined international driving privileges.

Legislative Progress

The draft law, issued under Decree No. (43) of 2024, is currently under review by the Shura Council’s Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee. The committee, chaired by Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, is conducting a thorough evaluation of the proposal, supported by legal opinions and comprehensive documentation.

Legal and Technical Compliance

Authorities have confirmed the proposal’s compliance with Bahrain’s constitutional requirements, and the Ministry of Interior has highlighted its alignment with the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968), which Bahrain already adheres to. Together, these agreements provide a robust framework for Bahraini drivers to access global road networks.

Key Provisions of the Convention

The 1949 convention encompasses 35 articles and seven chapters, addressing road safety, vehicle standards, and international driving permits. By joining, Bahrain would align itself with these internationally recognised systems, enabling smoother cross-border travel.

Strengthened Global Relations

Accession to the convention would also bolster Bahrain’s ties with other member nations, including regional partners like the UAE, Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan, alongside major global economies. Officials have highlighted the practical benefits, such as reduced bureaucratic barriers and simplified compliance with international driving regulations.

Next Steps

The Shura Council’s Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee has recommended approving the draft law. A full council debate will follow, paving the way for Bahrain to formalise its participation in the convention. If approved, this move is expected to enhance Bahrain’s global standing while offering tangible benefits to its citizens and residents.

With His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s ratification of Law No. (2) of 2025, Bahrain is set to take a significant step toward international integration, promoting seamless mobility for its people worldwide.