In a bold move to anchor itself firmly on the global yachting map, the Kingdom of Bahrain has unveiled Edict (9) of 2025—a streamlined framework designed to welcome private vessels and their discerning owners without the red tape of local agents. Announced on April 20 in Manama by Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, the new regulations promise quick, hassle-free passage for leisure yachts eager to explore Bahrain’s sapphire-blue harbors.
“Bahrain’s maritime heritage dates back centuries,” remarked Dr. Shaikh Abdulla, evoking the storied legacy of the Royal Bahrain Yacht Club—believed to be one of the Gulf’s oldest sea‑going institutions. “Today, we marry tradition with innovation to offer yacht visitors an experience that is at once safe, sustainable, and deeply enriching.”
Under the edict, non-commercial foreign yachts now need only secure a navigation permit from the Ports and Maritime Affairs Directorate—no intermediary required. Overnight guests will find their journey smoothed further by a newly published “Welcome Aboard” guide, developed in close collaboration with the Ministry of Interior. The comprehensive handbook details pre-arrival checklists, on-board safety protocols, and essential requirements such as Automatic Identification System (AIS) operation and vessel seaworthiness certifications.
Bader Hood Al Mahmood, Undersecretary for Ports and Maritime Affairs, emphasized the guide’s role in ensuring that every yacht’s stay adheres to both national laws and international maritime standards. “From issuing permits to coordinating arrival slots at one of Bahrain’s three world-class marinas, our processes are designed to maximize efficiency and heighten the overall yachting experience.”
The timing dovetails neatly with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, which spotlights tourism—particularly marine and sports tourism—as a cornerstone of sustainable growth. With the annual Bahrain International Boat Show attracting thousands of visitors and the nation’s turquoise waters perfect for everything from leisurely sails to high-speed regattas, the edict underscores Bahrain’s ambition to be the Gulf’s premier yachting hub.
Beyond bolstering tourism revenue, industry insiders anticipate a ripple effect: local marinas gearing up for expansion, luxury waterfront developments gaining momentum, and international yacht owners discovering Bahrain’s blend of cosmopolitan flair and Arabic hospitality. As the sun sets over Manama’s skyline, a new era dawns for seafarers charting their course toward these island shores—where every voyage promises discovery, safety, and an invitation to be part of Bahrain’s unfolding maritime story.
