A Call has gone out to ban new licences for furnished apartments across the kingdom, with a group of MPs expressing concern over their misuse for illegal purposes. The proposal has been presented by five legislators led by Parliament second deputy speaker Ahmed Qarata.
They urged the government to implement stringent regulations to stop the mushrooming of serviced apartments, especially in residential neighbourhoods.
Mr Qarata explained that the objective was not to stifle investments but to ensure that urban development aligned with the cultural and social framework of Bahrain.
“We must strike a balance between tourism growth and preserving the social and religious values that define our communities,” Mr Qarata said.
He added the need for a study and a thorough review of the current licensing framework, advocating for clear enforcement mechanisms to prevent ethical violations and exploitation of these accommodations.
“Our goal is to protect families and communities from any undesirable practices while maintaining a healthy investment climate,” he added.
Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi acknowledged Parliament’s concerns on protecting Bahrain’s traditions and values, but stressed that existing regulations already addressed the issues.
According to rules, furnished apartments must be located in independent buildings or buildings designated for commercial use, adhering to specific standards and conditions.
They must be situated in tourism or commercial zones, as approved by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority.
The minister warned that a complete suspension of new licences could have adverse effects on Bahrain’s broader investment and tourism landscape.
“The kingdom’s expansion of tourism infrastructure necessitates a diverse range of accommodation options, including short-term furnished rentals,” she pointed out.
Meanwhile, MPs are set to vote on a proposal to restore old restrictive regulations on cafés and restaurants serving sheesha, which were cancelled in 2018.
The proposal by five MPs is spearheaded by public utilities and environment affairs committee vice-chairman Bader Al Tamimi.
They claimed that sheesha cafes were springing up near residential neighbourhoods and mosques, ‘impacting their sanctity by holding undesirable and noisy gatherings’.
“Unpleasant odours and unwanted smoke from the cafes are also posing a threat to people’s health,” they said.
Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro responded in writing that old regulations acted as a deterrent, harming investments and businesses.
“Currently tough restrictions are in place while licences are issued to serve sheesha,” he said.
Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayyed also said that the service was being carefully monitored.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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