HM King Hamad Ratifies Tougher Anti-Smoking Penalties Under New Law
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, has ratified and issued Law No. 15 of 2025, introducing amendments to Article 20 of Law No. 8 of 2009 concerning the control of smoking and tobacco use in all its forms. The amendments were approved by both the Shura Council and the Council of Representatives.
The revised law introduces a tiered penalty system for various smoking-related offenses, aimed at strengthening public health policies and reinforcing anti-smoking regulations. The new provisions include:
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A fine between BD 20 and BD 50 for violations of Article 4 of the anti-smoking law.
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A fine not less than BD 100 for violations of Articles 5, 8, and 13.
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Fines ranging from BD 1,000 to BD 3,000 for breaches of Articles 7 and 12.
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Fines ranging from BD 2,000 to BD 5,000 for violations of Articles 2 and 3.
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Imprisonment for up to one year and/or fines between BD 1,000 and BD 100,000 for violations of Article 11.
In addition to the penalties, the court may order the closure of the offending establishment for up to three months or confiscation of any materials used in the offense.
The law also stipulates that the Prime Minister and relevant ministers shall implement its provisions, which come into effect the day after being published in the Official Gazette.
This amendment is part of Bahrain’s continued efforts to tighten controls on tobacco use, protect public health, and ensure stricter compliance with national anti-smoking regulations.
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