HE Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, emphasised the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety and security, and consolidating its position as a preferred destination for yachts and maritime tourism.

He noted that this is being achieved through ongoing regulatory decisions and development initiatives that contribute to the goals of the Kingdom’s comprehensive development process, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and followed up by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The minister said that, as part of efforts to improve the process for sea vessels obtaining navigation permits and to allow for multiple visits in a safe and sustainable environment, Edict (9) of 2025 has been issued to regulate navigation permits for visiting vessels in Bahraini waters. The edict stipulates that non-commercial foreign vessels intended for leisure must obtain a navigation permit from the ministry’s Ports and Maritime Affairs Directorate before sailing in Bahraini waters, without requiring a local shipping agent.

Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed added that the edict aims to reinforce Bahrain’s status as a leading regional hub for yacht tourism. It also aims to develop maritime, environmental, and sports tourism in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

He extended his appreciation to General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, for supporting these efforts by working to update mechanisms for regulating maritime navigation and facilitating vessel movement within Bahraini territorial waters. These efforts ensure high levels of efficiency, safety, and compliance with national laws and international standards.

On his part, Bader Hood Al Mahmood, Undersecretary for Ports and Maritime Affairs, confirmed that the Ministry has issued a comprehensive guide detailing the procedures for the entry and exit of visiting vessels in Bahraini waters. The guide was developed in coordination with all relevant authorities, especially the Ministry of Interior.

He added that the guide outlines pre-arrival procedures, operating requirements throughout the vessel’s stay, and compliance with national laws and regulations. These include the operation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS), ensuring the vessel’s seaworthiness, immediate reporting of any incidents, and the vessel owner’s responsibility to complete all requirements related to navigation permits and entry visas for passengers and crew.