MPs are stepping up efforts to preserve the kingdom’s centuries-old fishing tradition while equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in the marine sector.
Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee has backed key amendments to the fisheries law, endorsing a Shura Council proposal that would expand hands-on training opportunities aboard commercial fishing vessels.
The amendments to Decree-Law No (20) of 2002 are intended not only to protect marine resources, but also to ensure that knowledge, experience and cultural heritage are passed down to young Bahrainis.
They are set for debate on Tuesday and if approved, would be referred to His Majesty King Hamad for ratification.
“This legislation supports the continuity of the fishing profession and creates practical training opportunities for Bahrainis, particularly young people who wish to learn the trade firsthand,” committee chairman MP Mohammed Al Bulooshi said.
At the heart of the amendment is a new provision allowing a Bahraini captain (nawakhda) – subject to approval from the employer and the relevant authority – to take Bahraini trainees onboard commercial fishing vessels within the approved crew limit.
The move formalises training arrangements that MPs say are essential to developing local expertise.
The Shura Council proposed adding a new Article (3 bis) to the law to regulate this process, a recommendation that has now received the backing of the parliamentary committee.
“Hands-on training at sea is irreplaceable,” Mr Al Bulooshi said. “This amendment ensures that such training happens within a clear legal framework, safeguarding both the industry and our marine environment.”
The amendments also reaffirm that commercial fishing remains restricted to Bahraini citizens, with mandatory licensing requirements, specified fishing seasons, defined catch limits and the compulsory presence of a Bahraini captain onboard each vessel.
“Protecting marine resources goes hand in hand with protecting fishermen’s livelihoods,” Mr Al Bulooshi said. “This law does both by regulating activity while ensuring Bahrainis remain at the heart of the industry.”
Meanwhile, Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain has urged MPs to reconsider a proposal calling for compensation for fishermen during the Andaq, Safi and Sheri fish ban.
The minister said there was no practical or legal justification for such a move since there are many species available to catch during the time.
He said the annual ban in April and May has come following a sharp decline in the numbers of the three popular species.
Replying to another proposal on monitoring of expats exploiting the sea, Mr Al Buainain said general fishing violations had dropped from 2,465 to 927 in 2024 – with 113 violations involving expats reported between 2022 and 2025.
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