The Ministry of Tourism in Bahrain has recently issued a new decree that allows them to impose immediate administrative fines for tourism-related violations. This move eliminates the need for court referrals and is in line with the Tourism Regulation Decree Law that was enacted. The new decree outlines 73 violations across five main tourism sectors, including hotels, furnished apartments, restaurants, tour guiding, and travel and tourism agencies. Penalties for these violations can range from 500 to 8,000 Bahraini dinars (BHD).
Repeat offenders who commit violations within a year of a previous offense will face doubled fines, and fines calculated on a daily basis will be doubled if the violation is repeated within three years of the initial fine. The detailed schedule attached to the decree specifies the violations and corresponding fines for hotels and similar establishments. Operating without a license, after license expiration or revocation, or following a closure order carries a hefty fine of 6,000 to 8,000 BHD. Additionally, failure to provide 24-hour security guards and publishing advertisements without approval from the Ministry of Tourism attracts specific fines.
The decree also outlines violations and fines for furnished apartments, with penalties ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 BHD for operating without a license or after its expiration, revocation, or closure order. Additionally, fines are imposed for failing to implement safety measures for swimming pools, not providing surveillance cameras, and not keeping CCTV footage for required periods. Non-compliance with building and equipment maintenance requirements and other regulations can also result in significant fines ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 BHD.
Moreover, the decree addresses violations and fines for restaurants catering to tourists. Engaging in activities that could harm national tourism or the profession may result in fines ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 BHD. Failing to connect the restaurant’s system to the tourism electronic statistics system or non-compliance with operating hours and tourism-specific standards can attract fines of varying amounts. The decree emphasizes adherence to tourism regulations and standards to maintain the reputation of businesses in the tourism sector.
In addition to fines for specific violations within the tourism sector, the new decree also addresses penalties for tour guiding activities and administrative offices and tourism and travel agencies. Violations such as operating without a license, transferring licenses without consent, or engaging in tour activities without necessary permissions result in specific fines. The decree aims to ensure compliance with tourism regulations and ethical conduct in the industry, emphasizing professionalism, honesty, and courtesy in interactions with tourists.
Overall, the new decree issued by the Ministry of Tourism in Bahrain aims to enforce compliance with regulations in the tourism sector and maintain the quality and reputation of businesses within the industry. By imposing immediate administrative fines for violations, the ministry aims to streamline the enforcement process and deter repeat offenses. Businesses operating in the tourism sector in Bahrain are advised to familiarize themselves with the specific violations outlined in the decree and ensure compliance to avoid facing significant fines. Adherence to regulations and standards is crucial for the sustainable growth and development of the tourism industry in the region.
