New Classification Guidelines for Hotels and Hotel Apartments in Bahrain
The Ministry of Tourism issued Resolution No. 3 of 2024 in relation to the Classification of Hotels and Hotel Apartments (Resolution). The Resolution came into effect on 9 February 2024.
The key points of the new resolution are as follows:
- The classification of hotels and hotel apartments will be determined according to the specifications and requirements outlined in the guidlines attached to the resolution (Guidelines). The Guidelines set out the classification system and process for these establishments as well as the minimum standards and requirements across multiple categories and star ratings including F&B and entertainment services.
- The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is responsible for licensing and classifying hotels and hotel apartments. They have the authority to inspect these establishments every 4 years to ensure structural integrity, monitor maintenance work and movable assets, and determine the need for reclassification. Private sector institutions specialising in this field may be involved in the inspection process.
- Licensed hotels and hotel apartments must adjust their status in accordance with the new Guidelines within 1 year of the implementation of the Resolution (i.e. by 8 February 2025). Failure to do so may result in the suspension of the tourist license, which can last for up to 3 months. If the required adjustments are not made during the suspension period, the classification of the establishment may be downgraded to the lowest category. BTEA also reserves the right to take the legal measures stipulated in Legislative Decree No. (15) of 1986 regulating tourism.
- Violations of the Resolution may result in administrative penalties as defined in Article (4) of Legislative No. (15) of 1986 regarding the Organisation of Tourism.
- The Resolution also repeals and supersedes Resolution No. (4) of 2015, which relating to the Classification of Hotels, Hotel Apartments and Food and Beverage Services.
A copy of the Guidelines can be found at the following link: 3729A.pdf (lloc.gov.bh)
