Domestic Violence Protections in Bahrain
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Bahrain's 2015 Domestic Violence Protection Law was a landmark for the Gulf, and the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) — unique to Bahrain — plays an active role in policy and victim support:
- Broad definition: Domestic violence includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse by a family member — spouse, parent, child, sibling, or anyone sharing the household.
- Protection orders: A victim can apply to the court for an order that bars the abuser from contact, removes them from the shared home, and grants temporary child custody.
- Criminal penalties: Domestic violence is a criminal offence with imprisonment and fines. Repeat offences, abuse of children, or abuse of persons with disabilities carry harsher sentences.
- SCW support: The Supreme Council for Women coordinates shelters, counselling services, legal aid referrals, and rehabilitation programmes for victims.
- Multiple reporting channels: Victims can report to the police (999), the Family Court, or the SCW hotline. Hospital staff are also required to report suspected abuse.
When does it apply?
- You are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse from a family member or household member.
- You need an emergency protection order to keep the abuser away.
- You are a witness or concerned person aware of domestic violence in a household.
What to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Abuse and Need a Protection Order or Safe Shelter in Bahrain
- Call 999 if you are in immediate danger, or contact the Supreme Council for Women for support and guidance.
- Go to a hospital or clinic to document any injuries — medical reports are critical evidence and hospital staff must report suspected abuse.
- Apply for a protection order through the Family Court — this can be done on an emergency basis.
- Contact the SCW for referrals to shelters, legal aid, and counselling services.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not remain silent — domestic violence is a crime in Bahrain and the 2015 law provides real protections that did not exist before.
- Do not destroy evidence — preserve photos, messages, medical reports, and witness contact information.
- Do not return to an unsafe home without a protection order in place — the SCW can arrange temporary shelter.
Common Questions
When does it apply — domestic violence protections?
You are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse from a family member or household member.You need an emergency protection order to keep the abuser away.You are a witness or concerned person aware of domestic violence in a household.
What should I do if I am being abused by a family member in Bahrain and need immediate help and legal protection?
Call 999 if you are in immediate danger, or contact the Supreme Council for Women for support and guidance.Go to a hospital or clinic to document any injuries — medical reports are critical evidence and hospital staff must report suspected abuse.Apply for a protection order through the Family Court — this can be done on an emergency basis.Contact the SCW for referrals to shelters, legal aid, and counselling services.
What should you NOT do — domestic violence protections?
Do not remain silent — domestic violence is a crime in Bahrain and the 2015 law provides real protections that did not exist before.Do not destroy evidence — preserve photos, messages, medical reports, and witness contact information.Do not return to an unsafe home without a protection order in place — the SCW can arrange temporary shelter.