Parliament Backs Tax Relief, Housing Crackdown, and New Tax Deal
TDT | Manama
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Tax Deadline Extension
Bahrain’s Parliament on Tuesday backed an urgent proposal to extend the tax return filing deadline after widespread technical issues disrupted the National Bureau for Revenue’s online system.
MP Mohammed Mousa, who submitted the proposal, said repeated website faults prevented many taxpayers from filing on time, exposing them to potential fines despite no fault of their own. He called for postponing the deadline until the system is fully restored and stable.
The proposal also urges authorities to suspend penalties, extend the filing window, and introduce temporary alternatives for submissions while technical issues are resolved.
Misuse of Family Housing
In the same session, MPs approved a law allowing municipalities to fine landlords or tenants who misuse family-designated housing. The measure targets properties used for purposes other than family accommodation, with penalties capped at the property’s annual rental value.
Separately, Parliament passed a government-drafted law ratifying a tax agreement with Jersey aimed at preventing double taxation and tackling tax evasion. MP Ali Saqer Al Dosari supported the move but called for stronger safeguards in future agreements to protect Bahrain’s interests.
The deal with Jersey is meant to give firms and investors clearer tax rules when income is earned across both places.
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