Shura Council approves major amendments to Bahrain’s tourism law

TDT | Manama                                                       

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Significant amendments to Bahrain’s tourism law were approved yesterday during the tenth meeting of the Shura Council The Council discussed the report of the Services Committee regarding the proposed amendments in the session, led by His Excellency Ali bin Salih Al Saleh, Speaker of the Shura Council, in the presence of Her Excellency Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism.

The rapporteur of the committee, Talal Mohammed Al Mana’i, highlighted the objectives of the approved Decree Law No. (16) of 2023. The amendments grant the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) increased authority to impose administrative penalties on those who violate the provisions of Decree Law No. (15) of 1986, which regulates the tourism sector, and its implementing decisions.

Under the amended law, the Authority will have the power to publish statements regarding proven violations and determine the corresponding administrative fines. This measure aims to ensure the enforcement of regulations and create a trusted tourism environment.

Additionally, the amendments establish a clear appeals process to the minister for any decision issued. The prescribed fines stipulated in Article (11) of the law have also been revised to enhance regulation and address violations that may harm the rules of domestic tourism and tarnish its reputation.

Penalties

The decree law fills a legislative vacuum by introducing graduated administrative penalties in the Tourism Regulation Law. This crucial step plays a vital role in controlling violations and safeguarding the integrity of Bahrain’s tourism sector.

With the Shura Council’s approval, Decree Law No. (16) of 2023 amending provisions of Decree Law No. (15) of 1986 regulating tourism will be forwarded to the Speaker of the Council of Representatives.

The Speaker will inform the government of this significant development, marking a milestone towards strengthening the tourism industry in Bahrain. The new amendments were hailed by several Shura Council members before receiving the greenlight, while others expressed concerns over seeing violations being published publicly.

Violations

First deputy speaker Jamal Fakhro stated: “When it comes to publishing violations related to the decree law on tourism regulation, it is important to exercise caution and avoid excessive sensationalism.

The tourism sector holds sensitivity and significance, and the market itself is delicate, requiring us to handle any violations with care and not to cause unnecessary offense,” “The decree-law pertaining to the regulation of tourism holds significant importance, particularly as the tourism industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain is equally significant as that of developed nations.

However, there is a collective aspiration to further develop the tourism sector, expand its scope, and attract high-quality investments, thereby creating ample job opportunities. Recognizing tourism as a vital and prestigious asset, efforts are being directed towards enhancing its growth and prosperity, Shura Council member Ali Al Haddad said.