New Take on Traffic Laws

Stricter penalties are on the way in Bahrain as part of a nationwide push to reduce serious road accidents and deter reckless driving.

The reforms are being introduced following directives from His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, who has called for stronger legal action to protect lives and ensure road safety.

The Ministry of Interior, led by General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, is overseeing it.

“The new amendments to the Traffic Law have been finalized in coordination with the relevant authorities and will be announced soon,” shared a Director-General of Traffic representative. “These efforts reflect the commitment of the General Directorate of Traffic to enhancing road safety and enforcing the law more effectively.”

Proposed amendments include raising both minimum and maximum penalties, increasing fines and other fees, harsher custodial sentences, and confiscation of vehicles involved in serious incidents.

These changes target high-risk violations such as running red lights, excessive speeding, reckless or wrong-way driving, crossing the yellow line, and driving under the influence. When such actions result in injury or death, they will incur higher penalties.

The Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, Rashid Mohammed Bounajma, stated that ‘the goal is not punishment for its own sake but to protect the public by deterring dangerous conduct’. He added that the legal reforms will be promoted by a public awareness campaign to encourage safer road habits.

The campaign will aim to educate all road users on key changes to the law, proper driving etiquette, and the long-term risks of traffic violations. Authorities believe the combined approach of tougher enforcement and focused education will help drive a shift in behaviour on Bahrain’s roads, reduce violations, and save lives.