Public Complaints Resurface Over Spitting Despite Cleanliness Law in Bahrain

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Manama: Public frustration over spitting in streets and public spaces has resurfaced online, with residents questioning the enforcement of Bahrain’s Public Cleanliness Law, which explicitly prohibits the practice and imposes fines upto BD 300 on violators.

A recent discussion on Reddit highlighted widespread complaints from residents who say spitting remains a common sight across the country, particularly in busy areas such as Manama Souq and along roadsides and pavements. Several users described seeing drivers stop their cars to spit onto the street, while others pointed to visible signs banning spitting that appear to be largely ignored.

Commenters also noted that while the law exists, enforcement appears limited. Some users argued that the lack of reporting, monitoring, and issued fines has contributed to public disregard for the regulation, allowing what they described as an ‘unhygienic and unacceptable habit’ to continue unchecked.

Under the Public Cleanliness Law, individuals found spitting, discarding chewed substances, or littering in public places can be fined between BD 50 and BD 300. More serious violations related to waste management carry fines of up to BD 1,000, with additional penalties that may include confiscation, removal of waste, or temporary closure of establishments.

The law grants municipalities the authority to detect violations through designated officers, who are empowered to inspect, document offences and refer cases to the competent authorities. It also allows for reconciliation by paying a portion of the fine to avoid court proceedings.

The issue has also prompted calls for action from lawmakers, amid reports of the recent rising drunken and disorderly behaviour in Bahrain’s nightlife areas.

MP Hassan Bukhammas, chairman of Parliament’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee and the area’s representative, said he has received numerous complaints from residents about public indecency and vandalism. Residents had reported revellers urinating in public, spitting on doorsteps, sleeping outside apartment entrances, damaging vehicles and causing disturbances in residential parking areas and outside shops.

“It is disgusting behaviour,” Bukhammas said, urging inspectors and police to take immediate and decisive action. “We are a civilised country, and such conduct will not be tolerated.”

The Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning has launched ongoing public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the law and promote shared responsibility in maintaining cleanliness. Officials have repeatedly stressed that effective enforcement depends on active community participation, including reporting violations.

As online debate continues, residents are calling for stricter enforcement and greater accountability to ensure public spaces remain clean, safe and hygienic for everyone.