The Daily Tribune, 9 December 2024: Holidaymakers and property investors in Bahrain are set to benefit from enhanced fraud protections following the Shura Council’s approval of a new law regulating timeshare agreements.

This legislation, linked to Bahrain Royal Decree No. 33/2023, is now on its way to the Speaker of Parliament for referral to the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, before its final submission to the King.

The law establishes clear legal guidelines for timeshare transactions, safeguarding the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, while promoting investment in Bahrain’s tourism and property sectors.

The Services Committee’s report highlights six key areas covered by the draft law: oversight authority duties, licensing terms, contract conditions, inspections, legal enforcement, and criminal accountability.

The Tourism Minister described the law as a significant enhancement to Bahrain’s tourism sector, emphasising its role in establishing administrative procedures that protect consumers. She highlighted specific articles that address contractual matters and procedural safeguards, ensuring a comprehensive legal safety net for beneficiaries.

The legislation aligns with the Government Programme (2023-2026), which prioritises tourism as a central component of the country’s economic growth strategy. It supports major tourism projects and strengthens the legal framework governing property and tourism investments, with consumer protection at its core.

The responsible authority will have the power to enforce compliance, issue and renew licenses, and coordinate with other agencies overseeing timeshare schemes.

Strict conditions on licences, technical standards, and contract terms aim to eliminate fraudulent operators and protect buyers.

Despite initial concerns over vague wording in some sections, the Shura Council ultimately endorsed the measure after securing necessary revisions and clarifications.

The law is seen as a valuable framework that provides transparency for investors and safeguards the public interest, reflecting the collaborative efforts of various committees and authorities over the past months.

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