Alcohol In Bahrain: What's The Legal Status?

Alcohol laws vary across the Gulf Arab states, with some countries prohibiting the sale and consumption of alcohol entirely, such as Kuwait, and others permitting it under certain conditions. In Bahrain, the consumption of alcohol is allowed for non-Muslims in designated places, while Muslims are prohibited from drinking liquor in public places. These laws were amended in 2010 by the Shura Council of Bahrain, which approved a new provision as an amendment to the Penal Code, Law 15-1976, regulating the use of liquor in the Kingdom. The legal drinking age in Bahrain is 18 or 21, depending on the establishment.

Muslims prohibited from drinking alcohol in public

Alcohol is available in Bahrain, but there are some restrictions in place. While there are no religious restrictions on who can drink, there are age restrictions, and those selling alcohol require a permit. Some sources suggest that Muslims are prohibited from purchasing alcohol from liquor shops in Bahrain, with a sign outside one liquor store reading "no Muslims allowed". However, this rule appears to be largely ignored, and some suggest that it is a law that nobody follows.

Drinking alcohol is considered haram, or forbidden, in Islam. Islamic scholars and Muslim religious authorities typically cite a verse in the Quran, the Muslim holy book, that calls intoxicants "the work of Satan" and instructs believers to avoid them. Despite this, not all Muslims abstain from drinking, and some consume alcohol in private or public.

In some Muslim-majority countries, alcohol is prohibited. For example, in Saudi Arabia, drinking alcohol can be punished by flogging, fines, imprisonment, and deportation for foreigners. However, other Muslim-majority countries, like Bahrain, take a more relaxed approach and allow alcohol to be sold and consumed.

While Muslims in Bahrain may face some restrictions on purchasing alcohol from liquor stores, there do not appear to be any official restrictions on Muslims drinking alcohol in public. The consumption of alcohol by Muslims in public does not seem to be prohibited, and Muslims are able to drink in licensed venues and hotels, as well as bring their own alcohol into the country.

Non-Muslims allowed to drink alcohol in designated places

Alcohol is available in Bahrain, but there are some restrictions in place. Non-Muslims are permitted to consume alcohol in designated places, such as licensed venues, including 4 or 5-star hotels. There is a legal drinking age, which is 18 or 21, depending on the establishment.

On April 30, 2010, the Committee of Foreign Affairs and National Security of the Shura Council (Bahrain's legislature) approved an amendment to the Penal Code, Law 15-1976, which regulates the use of liquor in the Kingdom. This new provision prohibits Muslims from drinking liquor in public places but allows non-Muslims to consume liquor in designated places. The amendment was approved by the Bahraini Supreme Islamic Council, which stated that Islamic law does not prohibit non-Muslims from drinking liquor and does not impose sanctions on those individuals.

The amendment also excludes the consumption of liquor in private places, meaning that the rules around alcohol consumption only apply to public places. The amendment states:

> “It is prohibited in cases other than those authorized by the Minister of Health for the purpose of testing and scientific medical research to import, export, sell, possess, manufacture, [or] offer any kind of liquor in public places and shops.”

In practice, it seems that the restrictions on Muslims buying alcohol from liquor stores are not always followed, and it is possible for Muslims to bring alcohol into the country from outside. However, the consumption, importation, brewing, and trafficking of liquor are all strictly against the law for Muslims.

Bahrain's more relaxed alcohol laws for non-Muslims could be seen as a way to attract more foreign nationals to visit, live, and work in the country, particularly when compared to neighbouring countries like Saudi Arabia, which has a strict prohibition on alcohol, and Kuwait, where the sale and consumption of alcohol are also prohibited.

Alcohol available in licensed venues

Alcohol is available in Bahrain, but only in licensed venues. This means that alcohol can be consumed in certain designated places, such as specific hotels and restaurants. There are also restrictions based on age and religion. The legal drinking age varies between 18 and 21, depending on the establishment.

In terms of religious restrictions, there is some ambiguity. One source states that there are no restrictions based on religion, only age. However, other sources indicate that there are indeed restrictions on Muslims purchasing and consuming alcohol in Bahrain. The Shura Council of Bahrain has prohibited Muslims from drinking liquor in public places but has allowed non-Muslims to consume liquor in designated places. This includes licensed venues, such as hotels and restaurants.

The consumption, importation, brewing, and trafficking of liquor are considered illegal in Bahrain, with some exceptions. The Minister of Health can authorise the import, export, sale, possession, manufacture, or offering of liquor for specific purposes, such as testing and scientific medical research.

It is worth noting that the availability of alcohol in licensed venues in Bahrain is part of the country's efforts to boost its hospitality sector and attract foreign tourists and expatriates. This is in line with the kingdom's Vision 2030 development plan, which aims to create a thriving tourism industry that caters to both domestic and international markets.

While the rules and regulations surrounding alcohol in Bahrain may seem complex, the country does allow alcohol consumption in specific licensed venues, with age and religious restrictions in place. These regulations are subject to change, and it is always advisable to refer to the latest official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Drinking and driving is illegal

Alcohol is available in Bahrain in some licensed venues, including clubs, pubs, and restaurants. However, drinking and driving is illegal in Bahrain, and the authorities have a zero-tolerance policy. If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you will face severe consequences, including prison time and fines. The legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is extremely low, and it is best to avoid driving after consuming any alcohol at all.

The laws in Bahrain regarding drinking and driving are strictly enforced, and even if you are slightly over the limit, you will be punished. The penalties for drink-driving include imprisonment and fines, and the authorities do not take this offence lightly. It is important to be aware of these laws and to avoid drinking and driving at all costs.

While alcohol is available in Bahrain, it is essential to consume it responsibly and follow the local laws and customs. The legal drinking age varies between 18 and 21, depending on the establishment. However, regardless of age, driving after consuming alcohol is illegal and will result in harsh penalties.

As a visitor or expatriate in Bahrain, it is crucial to respect the local culture and abide by the country's laws. Drinking and driving is not only dangerous but also illegal in Bahrain, and those found in violation will face severe consequences. It is always best to use a designated driver or alternative modes of transportation if you plan to consume alcohol.

In conclusion, while alcohol may be available in Bahrain, drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and enforced. It is important to be aware of the local laws and to consume alcohol responsibly, ensuring that you do not put yourself or others at risk by driving under the influence. The consequences of drink-driving in Bahrain can be severe, and it is not worth risking your safety or freedom.

Alcohol delivery services exist

While there are no official sources, some sources suggest that there are religious restrictions on who can sell and purchase alcohol, with a sign outside Gulf Brands stating "no Muslims allowed". However, this rule does not seem to be enforced, with some sources stating that Muslims can purchase alcohol in Bahrain, and even get it delivered.

In terms of driving, the legal limit for alcohol consumption in Bahrain is 0.0, meaning absolutely no alcohol can be in your system while driving. This rule is not always enforced unless a driving offence is committed or an accident occurs.

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