Manama: His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for the Environment (SCE), has issued three significant regulatory decisions aimed at bolstering the protection of wildlife and biodiversity. These decisions align with the Environmental Law and international agreements, promoting sustainable management of natural resources.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Decision (6) of 2026 focuses on establishing a regulatory framework for issuing falcon passports. This framework aligns with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) requirements. It seeks to regulate the international movement of falcons, verify their legal origins through electronic identification, and maintain a dedicated electronic passport register. The decision outlines procedures for the issuance, renewal, and cancellation of passports, as well as the submission of appeals.
Decision (7) of 2026 introduces an updated list of 381 protected wild plant and animal species within the Kingdom of Bahrain. This list encompasses a wide range of species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, marine life, coral reefs, and wild plants. The decision is designed to safeguard biodiversity, support national conservation efforts, and ensure Bahrain meets its international commitments regarding wildlife protection.
Decision (8) of 2026 prohibits the import, possession, trade, and breeding of myna birds and crows of all varieties. This measure addresses the negative impact these introduced species can have on local ecosystems and biodiversity, including competition with native wildlife. The decision allows the SCE to license scientific, research, and educational institutions to study these species at approved facilities. Additionally, it provides a six-month transition period for individuals in possession of these birds to regularise their status and surrender them to the Council's Biodiversity Directorate. After this period, penalties under the Environmental Law will be enforced against violators.
These decisions are part of the Council's broader efforts to update environmental legislation, enhance wildlife protection, and regulate species trade and handling in accordance with international standards. They support the Kingdom's mission to protect biodiversity, achieve sustainable development goals, and maintain ecological balance for current and future generations.