Bahrain has backed the launch of a unified GCC vehicle coverage system, a move aimed at allowing motorists across the Gulf to benefit from standardised warranty and maintenance services when travelling to, or residing in, other member states.
In a statement outlining the government’s position, Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain said the initiative reflects the kingdom’s commitment to deeper Gulf integration and enhanced consumer protection.
“The unified GCC vehicle coverage system represents an important step towards facilitating mobility between member states and strengthening consumer confidence across the region,” Mr Al Buainain said.
The proposed system would allow vehicles purchased in any GCC country to retain manufacturer warranty, servicing rights and maintenance guarantees throughout the Gulf, eliminating discrepancies that currently burden motorists when crossing borders or relocating.
“This initiative supports Gulf citizens by ensuring continuity of warranty and maintenance services, while also promoting fairness and transparency in the automotive market,” the minister added.
Mr Al Buainain noted that the unified coverage would also reduce disputes between consumers, dealers and service providers by applying consistent technical and legal standards.
“Standardisation will help protect consumers from unexpected costs and ensure that vehicle owners receive the same level of service regardless of where they are in the GCC,” he said.
The minister highlighted that the initiative would require close co-ordination between transport authorities, consumer protection bodies and automotive dealers across the region to ensure smooth implementation and regulatory compliance.
“The success of this system depends on effective co-operation among GCC states, particularly in setting unified technical specifications, service obligations and dispute-resolution mechanisms,” Mr Al Buainain said.
He added that Bahrain supports studying the proposal through the relevant GCC committees to assess its legal, technical and economic implications, while ensuring it does not impose undue burdens on consumers or the private sector.
“The government is keen to adopt solutions that enhance integration while preserving market stability and protecting the legitimate interests of both consumers and service providers,” he said.
The number of vehicles on Bahrain’s roads has been increasing by 3.26 per cent annually – meaning, around 20,000 new vehicles are added every year.
Meanwhile, the government has rejected a parliamentary proposal to slash registration fees for imported cars older than five years, warning that the move could worsen congestion and safety risks.
Mr Al Buainain said the proposal to reduce the registration fee from BD1,000 to BD300 could not be approved, as the current fee serves as a critical regulatory control rather than a financial burden.
“The fee is not a prohibition, but a mechanism to regulate imports and ensure the seriousness of personal use, while preventing the kingdom from becoming a destination for old and unsafe vehicles,” he said.
He explained that Article 98 of the Executive Regulations of the Traffic Law restricts the registration of imported used vehicles over five years old, with limited exceptions. However, in response to citizens’ needs, Ministerial Decision No 17 of 2021 allowed such vehicles to be registered upon payment of the BD1,000 file-opening fee and compliance with safety and durability standards.
“This approach balances individual needs with the public interest and road safety considerations,” the minister added.
Mr Al Buainain stressed that the rapid growth in vehicle numbers underscores the importance of maintaining firm controls. Official figures show that registered vehicles rose from 273,230 in 2003 to 545,155 in 2013, reaching 749,376 in 2023 – nearly three times higher over two decades.
“Reducing the fee would weaken one of the key tools used to manage vehicle growth and mitigate its negative effects,” he said.
The minister also noted that lowering the fee would be unfair to citizens who had already paid the full amount under existing regulations.
This was among 30 replies to 30 proposals presented by Parliament last year.
In another response to a proposal to designate spaces for food trucks, Mr Al Buainain said the government was currently selecting suitable locations.
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