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His Majesty King Hamad’s Personal Representative and Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday issued two decisions regulating commercial fishing licences for Bahraini fishermen and governing the use of fishing nets, traps, weirs and fishing lines.
This is in line with the directives of His Majesty to regulate and protect fisheries as a vital national resource, and in support of the government’s efforts led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to preserve marine wealth and enhance food security,
Shaikh Abdulla said that these decisions are part of ongoing efforts to modernise Bahrain’s legislative framework for marine resource protection and sustainability. He emphasised that the regulations align with Bahrain’s strategic food security goals by establishing clear mechanisms for the sustainable management of marine wealth and enhancing oversight of the fishing sector to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
He added that marine conservation is a shared responsibility, requiring adherence to these regulations to safeguard marine resources as both an economic asset and a vital food source.
The first decision mandates the presence of Bahraini fishermen in commercial fishing activities, aiming to curb illegal subleasing and prevent unauthorised foreign fishing practices. It aligns with existing regulations on foreign labour quotas aboard fishing vessels and broader policies to protect Bahrain’s marine resources and fish stocks.
He affirmed the SCE’s commitment to implementing Bahrain’s environmental policies with an integrated vision that prioritises sustainability, ensuring ecological balance and the preservation of marine wealth for future generations.
The second decision establishes guidelines for sustainable fishing practices, ensuring the long-term viability of fish stocks and minimising harmful fishing methods. It introduces strict conditions for the use of nets, traps and weirs, while imposing a complete ban on fishing with traditional fishing lines (Al khiyyah), a measure aimed at reducing environmental damage and protecting endangered marine species.
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