Dating, Escort services are legal in Bahrain?

Manama : A document on a government website has caused confusion among the public as it made a strange mention on “escort services” and “dating services.”

A list on www.business.gov.bh website described “escort services” and “dating services” as “business activities.” It was confusing to many as both the services are illegal in the Kingdom. The services were classified as ‘other personal services’ under the code 960990; pet care services, shoe shiners, porters and valet car parkers were also classified under the same code. 

No official explanation was available on why the illegal activities were listed alongside the other business activities, however, according to a source, the website listed it as such because it is following an international classification for business activities. Since prostitution and dating services are illegal in Bahrain, they do not apply here. The pet care services, massage salons, valet car parkers and those services legal in Bahrain are the only items relevant to Bahrain-based business owners, the source said. 

Speaking to DT News, Four Star Hotel committee Chairman and Al Safir Hotel Board Member and CEO Hameed Halwachi said the authorities are strict as ever in preventing immoral activities. 

“They are closing down the outlets that breach the law, and I agree with this. Bahrain is a clean place and it should remain clean. The authorities are taking the correct measures in achieving this,” he said, adding, “I have not heard about this document, it does not make sense.”

 Several outlets and restaurants in Bahrain were shut down recently for carrying out illegal activities that would damage the country’s tourism reputation. 

Chief Prosecutor Nawaf Al Awadhi said that the move was made after Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority filed a complaint against the restaurants that were found to be practising unlicensed and illegal activities that were deemed obscene and against the public morale.

“Responding to the complaints, the Public Prosecution decided to shut down the restaurants because of the foul plays they committed,” Al Awadhi added.