Bahrain to Implement New Licensing Rules for Commercial Fishermen

The Supreme Council for Environment has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Bahrain’s commercial fishing sector in a way that protects marine resources, supports food security, and ensures sustainable development.

As part of this effort, the council announced that Resolution No. (4) of 2025 — which regulates licenses for Bahraini fishermen to practice commercial fishing — will officially take effect on Thursday, August 28. The new system became mandatory six months after its issuance and applies to all registered fishermen in the Kingdom.

The council stressed the importance of all Bahraini fishermen completing the necessary steps to obtain their license through the national portal bahrain.bh. It noted that empowering local fishermen remains a national priority, as they play a vital role in preserving marine resources and keeping the tradition of fishing alive for future generations.

Under the new rules, applicants must be Bahraini, at least 18 years old, and medically fit to work in fishing. Licenses are valid for one year and can be renewed under the same conditions. The license is strictly personal, non-transferable, and cannot be assigned to others. Fishermen are also not allowed to work for employers outside those listed on their license.

The council explained that the number of fishermen and crew members allowed on a vessel will depend on the size of the boat — ranging from three crew members for boats between 18 and 21 feet, up to nine for larger banoush boats. The regulations also set limits on the number of supporting workers who are not licensed fishermen.

For inquiries, the Supreme Council for Environment encouraged fishermen to contact the Directorate of Fisheries Resources Development and Protection at 17987444 or via email.