King Hamad Sanctions Sweeping Overhaul of Bahrain’s Traffic Laws via Royal Decree 30 of 2025

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has enacted major changes to Bahrain’s Traffic Law through Royal Decree Law No. (30) of 2025, introducing significantly tougher penalties aimed at enhancing road safety and curbing traffic violations.

Under the new decree, offenders may face fines of up to BD 10,000 and prison sentences of up to 10 years for the most serious traffic crimes. Lesser infractions such as speeding in residential areas or affixing unauthorized stickers to vehicles will result in fines ranging between BD 50 and BD 100. Running a red light could lead to fines of up to BD 1,000 and imprisonment of up to six months, while accidents caused by such violations will attract fines of up to BD 3,000 and one year in jail. Speeding offenses follow a similar penalty structure, with repeat offenders subject to harsher sanctions.

Driving under the influence has also been addressed with greater severity. Offenders may face two months to one year in prison and fines between BD 1,000 and BD 2,000. If the violation results in a traffic accident, penalties increase to four months to two years in jail and fines between BD 2,000 and BD 4,000. Repeat offenders face doubled penalties.

The amendments also introduce new provisions to tackle reckless driving. Article 47 (bis) targets dangerous behaviors such as abrupt swerving, driving against the flow of traffic, or overtaking in restricted zones. Article 51 (bis) prescribes penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to BD 10,000 in cases where a traffic violation leads to death, particularly when alcohol, drugs, or serious breaches are involved. Article 51 (bis 1) addresses accidents causing injury, stipulating up to seven years in prison and fines up to BD 8,000. Additionally, Article 54 (bis) permits the confiscation of vehicles in cases of severe traffic crimes.

The decree also strengthens enforcement mechanisms. The Public Prosecution is now authorized to issue criminal orders imposing fines up to BD 2,000. Public Security officers have been granted judicial authority to arrest individuals for major traffic violations. Certain minor offenses may also be resolved through reconciliation, under specific legal conditions.

Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa welcomed the decree as a crucial step in advancing Bahrain’s public safety framework and legislative development. He emphasized that the updated law will promote responsible driving, deter recklessness, and help reduce accidents. To ensure its effectiveness, the General Directorate of Traffic will support the implementation with awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement.