A landmark government-drafted bill aimed at regulating private educational institutions is set to be debated in the Shura Council on Sunday.
The 36-article draft law, approved unanimously by Parliament without amendments last month, marks the most significant reform to Bahrain’s private education sector in more than two decades. It replaces Decree-Law No (25) of 1998 governing private educational and training institutions.
The bill introduces a modern regulatory framework aimed at improving governance, strengthening oversight, enhancing educational quality and encouraging responsible investment in private education.
According to the Shura Council’s services committee, which has recommended approval of the legislation in principle, the bill reflects the rapid growth and increasing complexity of the private education sector, which now serves more than 90,000 students across 81 private schools and institutions.
Services committee chairwoman Dr Jameela Al Salman described the proposed law as a long-overdue reform that aligns regulation with current educational realities.
“This legislation represents a qualitative shift in the way private educational institutions are governed and supervised,” Dr Al Salman said.
“It establishes a balanced framework that safeguards the interests of students and parents, while providing clarity, stability and confidence for investors and operators in the education sector.”
The committee report notes that the existing law – unchanged since 1998 – no longer reflects developments such as the expansion of early childhood education, the growth of specialised centres, digital learning platforms and evolving governance and accountability standards.
Under the new framework, all private educational institutions – including early education centres and specialised educational facilities – will fall under unified supervision by the Education Ministry, replacing the fragmented oversight previously shared by multiple authorities.
The draft law introduces new licensing requirements, operational standards, financial supervision mechanisms and clearer accountability procedures. It also enhances the ministry’s powers to monitor performance, curricula, safety standards and administrative compliance.
One of the most notable reforms concerns school tuition fees.
Private institutions will be required to obtain ministerial approval before increasing fees, with a defined appeals mechanism for rejected applications. The ministry will also be empowered to ensure that curricula are consistent with Bahrain’s values, national identity and religious principles.
“The law introduces a transparent and fair mechanism to regulate tuition fees,” Dr Al Salman said. “This ensures fees are proportionate to the services provided and take into account families’ financial circumstances, while allowing institutions to maintain sustainability.”
The legislation also provides a more comprehensive system of administrative penalties.
Depending on the severity of violations, the ministry may issue warnings, impose fines of up to BD100,000, suspend activities or revoke licences. Those operating without a licence, submitting false information or obtaining approvals through fraudulent means will face criminal penalties – including imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to BD100,000.
At the same time, the law introduces incentives for high-performing institutions, such as simplified licence renewals, priority access to government programmes and greater flexibility in developing educational offerings.
“Accountability and encouragement must go hand in hand,” Dr Al Salman said. “The bill does not only impose obligations and penalties, but also rewards excellence, innovation and continuous improvement.”
The services committee also highlighted provisions that protect students, parents and staff, particularly in cases where institutions suspend or cease operations. Schools will be required to submit clear transition plans to ensure students can continue their education without disruption.
Importantly, the proposed law resolves a long-standing issue by allowing heirs of deceased school owners to retain ownership of institutions, subject to regulatory approval.
If approved by the Shura Council, the law will require existing private educational institutions to regularise their status within one year of its entry into force. The bill would also give parents greater flexibility in enrolling children in the first grade during the calendar year they turn six.
“This legislation lays the foundation for a more transparent, accountable and future-ready private education sector,” Dr Al Salman said. “It reflects Bahrain’s commitment to educational quality, child protection and sustainable development.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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