Deceptive Practices Protection
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders.
Bahraini National Law
What is this right?
Bahrain law prohibits businesses from using deceptive or misleading practices to attract consumers:
- False advertising: It is illegal to make false or misleading claims about a product's quality, ingredients, origin, price, or features.
- Bait and switch: Advertising a product at a low price with no intention of selling it, then pushing a more expensive alternative, is prohibited.
- Hidden fees: The total price must be clearly displayed before the consumer commits to a purchase. Hidden charges or fees are illegal.
- Counterfeit goods: Selling fake or imitation products as genuine is a criminal offence under both the Consumer Protection Law and the Penal Code.
- Penalties: Businesses found guilty of deceptive practices face fines, licence suspension, and criminal prosecution.
When does it apply?
- You were misled by advertising into buying a product that does not match what was promised.
- You were charged hidden fees that were not disclosed before purchase.
- You suspect you purchased a counterfeit product.
What should you do?
- Collect evidence — save advertisements, receipts, photos of the product, and any communications with the seller.
- File a complaint with the MoITT Consumer Protection Directorate (call 17007 or visit in person).
- For counterfeit goods, you can also report to the Economic Crimes Directorate of the Ministry of Interior.
- If you suffered financial loss, consult a lawyer about filing a civil claim for compensation.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not confront the seller aggressively — use official complaint channels for better results.
- Do not share your complaint on social media before filing officially — defamation laws in Bahrain are strict.
- Do not assume small print makes hidden fees acceptable — the law requires clear and prominent price disclosure.
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