Bahrain to Launch Digital System for Pre-Approved Mobile Food Truck Sites

Bahrain is set to introduce a digital system that will allow mobile food trucks to reserve pre-approved sites, streamlining operations and ensuring compliance with municipal regulations. The initiative was announced by His Excellency Wael Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, during a parliamentary session.

H.E. Al Mubarak explained that the electronic platform will enable food-truck owners to submit applications to reserve their desired locations. Initial sites have already been identified across the country, and the ministry will announce the official process once applications can be submitted. While the ministry sets the rules for where trucks can park under Decision No. 38 of 2020, operating licences are issued by another government body.

Approval and Site Rules
Owners must also obtain approval from the relevant municipality, particularly when operating on municipal property. Key rules include:

• Written consent from property owners is required.

• Trucks cannot park within street right-of-way or directly in front of residential buildings.

• Vehicles must maintain 50 metres from junctions, roundabouts, and traffic lights and leave at least one metre between vehicles.

• Safe electrical connections, proper waste disposal, compliance with Civil Defence rules, and noise control measures are mandatory.

For residential sites, trucks must provide parking within the property boundaries and can operate only from 6 am to midnight, leaving the site outside these hours with no equipment left behind. Minimum distance from neighbouring buildings is set at 20 metres, with non-fixed tables and seating allowed by agreement. Silent generators are permitted. For non-residential properties, operating hours are determined with the property owner.

Permanent structures require a building permit in the property owner’s name, written consent, and compliance with planning rules. Currently, 18 mobile food vehicles have been approved for licensing on municipal properties.

Street Vendor Update
H.E. Al Mubarak also provided updated figures on licensed street vendors, reporting a total of 31 licensed vendors in Bahrain. Licences issued included 10 in 2023, seven in 2024, and 14 in 2025. One licence in Muharraq Municipality was suspended for breaching planning rules.

The new digital system is expected to enhance transparency, improve compliance, and support the growth of Bahrain’s mobile food sector while maintaining safety and community standards.