Bahrain Hunting License Process: Key Regulations

Published on September 29, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Obtaining a hunting license in Bahrain requires thorough understanding of current regulations, which continue to grow more complex to address contemporary environmental challenges. Although the kingdom is recognized for its rich biodiversity, authorities have implemented strict measures to preserve this delicate balance.

Applicants must not only familiarize themselves with extensive administrative procedures but also demonstrate commitment to wildlife protection. This article will guide you through essential steps, from required documents to practical examinations, ensuring you meet all necessary requirements and enjoy this activity in full compliance with the law.

Understanding Required Authorizations for a Hunting License in Bahrain

Available Hunting License Types in Bahrain:

• General permit for sport hunting
• Special permit for nuisance species control
• Temporary authorization during supervised events

Affected Animal Species:

Species Type	Status
Migratory birds	Limited hunting
Hares	Hunting permitted
Wild boar	Possible regulation
Local small game	According to regulations

Hunting of protected species (gazelle, rare birds, threatened mammals) is strictly prohibited.

Eligibility Criteria and Conditions:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Legally reside in Bahrain or hold valid visa for hunting period
• Provide medical certificate confirming physical and mental fitness to handle weapons
• Complete safety and hunting rules training provided by competent authority

Seasonal and Area Limitations:

• Official season typically runs from November to February
• Authorized areas designated by environment ministry (wetlands, identified rural sectors)
• Strict prohibition in nature reserves, urban areas, and undesignated agricultural spaces

Detailed License Application Process:

1. Complete official form available from relevant ministry or online
2. Attach:
   • Copy of passport or national ID card
   • Recent medical certificate (less than 3 months old)
   • Hunting safety training completion certificate
3. Pay administrative fees:
   • Approximately 20–40 BHD depending on license type/validity
4. Submit file at service counter or via electronic platform
5. Average processing time: 15 business days

License issuance follows verification of criminal records related to weapons or environmental offenses.

Safety Rules and Regulations:

• Mandatory fluorescent equipment when moving through hunting zones
• Systematic weapon inspection before each outing; prohibited calibers banned
• Minimum distance required between hunters (>100 m)
• Strict prohibition of shooting toward roads, dwellings, or public infrastructure

Applicable Fines and Penalties:

Violation	Fine	Additional Penalty
Hunting without license	up to 500 BHD	Immediate equipment confiscation
Hunting out of season	200–400 BHD	Temporary license suspension
Hunting in nature reserve	1000 BHD minimum	Legal proceedings/prison sentence
Safety regulation violation	150–300 BHD	Permanent license revocation

Repeat offenses result in permanent ban and aggravated criminal prosecution.

Bahrain Hunting Regulations: What Expatriate Hunters Need to Know

Main Laws and Regulations

• Hunting in Bahrain is subject to near-total prohibition, primarily for biodiversity protection and preservation of local species
• Unlike many countries where sport or recreational hunting is organized through seasonal permits, Bahrain prohibits hunting of most wildlife species except in very specific situations requiring exceptional government authorization
• Legislation is based on texts concerning wildlife and environmental protection, along with international conventions ratified by the kingdom

Permits and Procedures for Expatriates

Required Permit Type	Administrative Procedures	Competent Authority
Special hunting permit	Written motivated and justified request	Ministry of Labor and Agriculture / Environmental Protection Authority
Weapon import authorization	Strict procedure, rarely granted	Ministry of Interior

• Expatriates must provide detailed application, often accompanied by scientific justification or environmental management project. Recreational hunting permits are virtually nonexistent for non-nationals
• Any firearm possession or use requires prior authorization, very difficult for foreigners to obtain

Species Restrictions and Legal Seasons

• Hunting of local species such as migratory birds, gazelle, or falcon is strictly prohibited
• No legal hunting season exists for expatriates; any activity not expressly authorized is illegal
• Violations can result in severe penalties:

• Heavy fines
• Equipment confiscation
• Prison sentences
• Immediate deportation

Regulated Equipment and Training Requirements

• Only equipment expressly listed in exceptional permits is authorized
• Import or possession of firearms, crossbows, or any other hunting equipment is prohibited without special authorization
• No training or certification program accessible to expatriates for recreational hunting exists. All training is strictly regulated and reserved for professional purposes (wildlife control, scientific research)

Practical Tips for Expatriates

• Always be prepared to present any permit or authorization during local authority inspections
• When in doubt about activity or equipment legality, consult Environmental Protection Authority before proceeding
• Contact home country embassy or expatriate networks for updated information
• No official foreign hunters association exists in Bahrain, as the practice is nearly prohibited. Some expatriates practice sport shooting in licensed clubs, but unrelated to hunting

Procedures for Obtaining a Hunting License in Bahrain

The government agencies responsible for issuing hunting licenses in Bahrain are primarily the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Sustainable Development, which oversee regulation of hunting activities. Applications are generally made through the wildlife or environment department.

Eligibility Conditions:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Present clean criminal record regarding weapons or wildlife offenses
• Legally reside in Bahrain or justify authorized extended stay

Available License Types:

License Type	Description
General permit	Authorizes regulated hunting
Temporary permit	For non-resident visitors
Specialized permit	Supervised hunting (targeted species)

Some types may be subject to annual quotas and geographical restrictions.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Gather required documents:
   • Properly completed official form
   • Valid identification
   • Proof of residence
   • Medical certificate confirming physical and mental fitness
   • Proof of training/certification completion if required
2. Complete mandatory training, including:
   • Awareness of local rules, safety, ethics
   • Written exam on legislation and responsible practices
3. Submit your file:
   • In person at relevant ministry counter or via dedicated online portal
   • Forms can be collected directly from central administrative service or downloaded from official Bahrain government website
4. Pay associated fees:
   • Payment possible by cash, credit card, or transfer during submission
   • Average amounts by type (example: 25–75 BHD)
5. Await administrative processing:
   • Average processing time: 2 weeks to 1 month depending on period and application volume
6. License receipt:
   • Possible in-person collection with identification, email/SMS notification for online procedures

Specific Restrictions/Regulations:

• Strict compliance with legal hunting seasons set annually
• Limitation on authorized species (official list updated yearly)
• Obligation to use only weapons approved by local administration
• Formal prohibition of hunting in protected areas or nature reserves identified by ministerial decree

Any violation may result in immediate suspension or permanent license revocation.

Where to Obtain Forms/Files:

• Download from government digital portal (environment/wildlife section)
• Physical collection at centralized counter located at main competent ministry headquarters

Contact/Additional Assistance:

For questions regarding administrative procedures:

• “Wildlife & Hunting Permits” Service – Bahrain Interior Ministry
  Tel: +973 XXXX XXXX
  Email: info@moibahrain.gov.bh
• Environmental Regulation Department – Sustainable Development Ministry
  Tel: +973 YYYY YYYY
  Email: envpermits@bahrain.gov.bh

To avoid delays in your application, always verify all documents are complete before submission!