Parliament approves dangerous animals regulation law

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Parliament approved a draft law regulating the keeping and handling of dangerous animals, introducing strict controls and heavy penalties, including life imprisonment for attacks that result in death.

The legislation, attached to Decree No. 15 of 2025, aims to regulate the possession, sale, import, export and breeding of dangerous animals in Bahrain while addressing growing concerns over public safety.

Under the draft law, individuals or companies will be prohibited from keeping or trading dangerous animals without a licence from the relevant authorities. Licensed activity will be restricted to specific entities such as zoos, animal parks, circuses, research centres and similar establishments authorised by the ministry responsible for livestock affairs.

Dangerous animals are defined as those capable of causing harm to people or other animals, including predatory species and so-called semi-dangerous animals that may become aggressive under certain conditions. The specific species falling under this category will be determined by ministerial decision following Cabinet approval.

The law introduces severe penalties for using animals as a weapon. Anyone who uses a dangerous animal to attack another person and causes permanent disability could face a prison term of three to seven years. If the attack results in death, the penalty could rise to life imprisonment.

Licensed establishments would be required to register dangerous animals with the ministry, ensure proper food, shelter and veterinary care, and keep animals in secure enclosures designed to prevent escape or harm.

The draft law also bans taking dangerous animals into public places and requires prior approval for transporting them within or through Bahrain.

Supporters say the legislation aims to protect public safety while ensuring responsible animal management. Parliament’s Public Utilities and Environment Committee recommended approval, noting that the law fills a legal gap and introduces clearer oversight of dangerous animal ownership in the Kingdom.