Parliament to Vote on First-Ever Law Regulating Dangerous Animals in Bahrain

The Council of Representatives is preparing to vote in the upcoming legislative term on Bahrain’s first law of its kind, aimed at regulating the ownership and trade of dangerous animals.

The new government-drafted legislation seeks to strengthen community safety and protect both people and other animals from the risks posed by predatory or potentially aggressive creatures. It introduces strict conditions for keeping such animals in private homes or using them for commercial shows without oversight.

Under the draft law, individuals will be completely prohibited from owning predatory and semi-dangerous animals. Permission will only be granted to zoos, wildlife parks, circuses, research and scientific institutions, as well as government, security, and military entities. Violators could face imprisonment and fines ranging between BD 1,000 and BD 10,000 for keeping these animals without a license.

Among the key provisions is a ban on taking predatory animals into public spaces or roaming with them outside approved facilities. Harsh penalties will apply in cases where an attack occurs due to non-compliance. If such an incident leads to death, the law stipulates a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

The bill also requires the registration of dangerous animals, the provision of safe enclosures, proper veterinary care, and mandatory reporting of births, deaths, escapes, or incidents resulting in injury or death. Authorized inspectors will be granted judicial powers to carry out site checks, issue fines, and enforce compliance. The ministry will also have the authority to confiscate unlicensed animals or revoke permits.

Described as a preventive and regulatory measure, the proposal will be reviewed by the Public Utilities and Environment Committee in Parliament. It is based on existing national laws and international agreements that Bahrain has joined, aiming to ensure tighter control over creatures that may endanger lives and property.

Definitions and Classifications

The first chapter of the bill introduces key terms, defining “dangerous animals” as species capable of causing direct harm to humans or other animals. It distinguishes between “predatory animals,” which feed on meat, and “semi-dangerous animals,” which may become aggressive over time or under certain conditions. The minister concerned will be tasked with issuing a detailed list of species covered under the law.

The legislation also provides a broad definition of “possession,” extending it to anyone who owns, cares for, or raises a dangerous animal, even temporarily. The term “trade” covers activities such as sale, export, transport, and promotion, with the ministry responsible for regulating all such practices.