Bahrain Set to Enforce New Traffic Penalties Starting Friday, August 22

Bahrain Set to Enforce New Traffic Penalties Starting Friday, August 22

Heads Up, Bahrain! New Traffic Penalties Go Into Effect Friday, August 22

August 25, 2025 – Manama, Bahrain

Motorists in Bahrain are being urged to familiarize themselves with a new set of traffic penalties that officially went into effect on Friday, August 22, as part of a nationwide road safety initiative aimed at reducing accidents and enhancing public awareness.

The General Directorate of Traffic announced these updates to the Kingdom’s traffic law earlier this month, warning that zero-tolerance enforcement will now apply to several high-risk violations.

What’s New:

  • Stricter penalties for distracted driving (e.g., phone use while driving).

  • Increased fines for speeding, especially in residential and school zones.

  • Automatic license suspension for repeat offenses like reckless driving or DUI.

  • Introduction of black point system enhancements and immediate vehicle impoundment for extreme violations.

Why It Matters:

According to traffic authorities, the updated penalties are designed to:

  • Curb the rise in road fatalities seen over the past year.

  • Reinforce safe driving habits, especially among young drivers.

  • Support Bahrain’s Vision 2030 goals for sustainable urban safety.

Drivers are advised to stay updated through official government portals and refrain from relying on outdated or unofficial sources.

Stay Informed, Drive Safe

Law enforcement officers will begin intensive monitoring using smart radars, CCTV, and random checkpoints in high-risk areas. Public awareness campaigns are also being rolled out in schools, malls, and on social media.