Bahrain Approves Unified GCC International Land Transport Law

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Manama, August 19 – His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has issued Royal Decree-Law No. (35) of 2025 approving the Unified International Land Transport Law among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.

The law, which was endorsed following the recommendation of the Prime Minister and approval of the Cabinet, aims to regulate and unify cross-border land transport operations across GCC countries, making movement of goods and passengers smoother and more efficient.

Under the new legislation:

The term “competent authority” will refer to a government body to be designated by decree.

For financial transactions within the framework of this law, the Bahraini dinar will be treated as equivalent to ten Saudi riyals.

Individuals or entities affected by decisions under the law have the right to file complaints to the competent authority within 30 days of notification, whether in writing or electronically. Authorities must respond within 30 days. If no response is given, the complaint is considered rejected by default. Rejected cases may be further challenged before the courts.

Existing regulations will remain in place until a new executive bylaw for the GCC unified law is issued.

The decree also stipulates that the Prime Minister and relevant ministers will oversee the implementation of the law, which takes effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette.

This step reflects Bahrain’s commitment, alongside fellow GCC countries, to strengthening regional integration and facilitating trade and travel through a unified transport framework.