MPs seek to snuff out shisha cafes near homes

TDT | Manama

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Parliament is set to debate a proposal on Tuesday that would ban or relocate shisha cafes operating near residential areas, schools, and mosques.

The plan seeks to reinstate a 2006 ministerial decision regulating the location of cafes and restaurants that serve tobacco products.

The proposal is backed by MPs Bader Al Tamimi, Hamad Al Doy, Mohammed Mousa, Abdulhakim Al Sheno, and Abdulla Al Dha’an, who argue that shisha cafés in residential areas have led to mounting complaints over late-night disturbances, increased traffic, and drifting smoke.

MP Bader Al Tamimi said: “It is no secret that the presence of shisha cafes in residential areas has become a daily grievance for many families. The noise, the traffic, and the clouds of smoke drifting into homes—it’s a nuisance that shouldn’t be allowed to continue unchecked.”

Bahrain already has regulations restricting tobacco use, including the 2009 anti-smoking law and zoning rules introduced in 2023 that outline where smoking establishments can operate.

Health Minister Dr Jaleela Al Sayyed told Parliament that authorities would review the issue if the proposal secures approval. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs stated that its role is limited to location assessments, while licensing falls under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

The Anti-Smoking Society has voiced support for the plan, warning that some cafes have become late-night gathering spots for loitering and, in some cases, illicit activity. It pointed to countries like New Zealand, which is moving towards a tobacco-free future, and Turkmenistan, where tobacco sales have been severely restricted.