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New regulations that would allow advertising on select public buildings are set to be debated by the Shura Council.
The proposed legislation seeks to generate new revenue streams by allowing vacant spaces on government buildings to be used for advertising, subject to strict oversight and controls.
The initiative has gained the backing of the Shura Council’s public utilities and environment affairs committee, whose chairman Dr Mohammed Ali Hassan unanimously recommended approval after reviewing its legal, economic and urban implications.
The move was previously endorsed by MPs.
Under the existing law, advertising on public buildings, or facilities designated for public services, is subject to an outright ban.
The proposed amendment maintains the ban in principle but introduces a regulated exception, allowing advertising in designated locations subject to conditions and standards set by ministerial decision.
Dr Hassan said the proposal represents a measured step towards modernising Bahrain’s advertising framework while safeguarding public services and the country’s architectural character.
“This amendment provides a clear legislative basis for the optimal use of public assets without compromising their primary function,” he said. “It strikes a balance between economic development, public interest and preservation of the urban landscape.”
According to the committee, the reform is part of broader efforts to improve financial sustainability for public bodies. Allowing advertising on suitable public buildings could increase municipal revenues through licensing fees, while also contributing to overall state income.
Dr Hassan added that all advertising activity would, however, be subjected to strict oversight to prevent visual pollution.
The committee confirmed that the bill is consistent with existing laws. It also cited constitutional provisions affirming the legislator’s authority to regulate economic activity in pursuit of development and public welfare, provided rights and freedoms are not undermined.
Dr Hassan
Both the Shura Council’s legislative and legal affairs committee and the Legislation and Legal Opinion Commission concluded that the bill is constitutionally and legally sound.
The Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry also expressed support for the proposal, endorsing the observations of the legal authorities and agreeing with the outcome reached by MPs.
A key feature of the amendment is that any advertising on public buildings would be governed by detailed regulations issued by the minister responsible for municipal affairs. These rules would specify locations, technical standards, visual requirements and safeguards to ensure compatibility with the surrounding environment.
The committee concluded that the amendment would contribute to economic development while preserving the public character of government buildings, and formally recommended approval both in principle and article by article.
“The goal is to modernise regulation in a way that benefits the public interest and supports sustainable development,” said Dr Hassan.
Meanwhile, the Shura Council will review the 2022 and 2023 closing financial statements of the Future Generations Reserve Fund.
Both statements have been rejected by Parliament over allegations of ‘not enough done’.
Members will also be notified about the response from Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Nawaf Al Maawda to a question by member Dr Ali Al Haddad on legal and judicial digital transformation.
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