Bahrain's Accelerated Urban Growth Boosted by "Baniyat" System
The Kingdom of Bahrain is experiencing rapid urban development, as evidenced by the increasing number of various building permits issued for residential, investment, industrial, commercial, and other types of projects. Engineer Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for Municipal Affairs at the Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture, highlighted the pivotal role played by the "Baniyat" system in streamlining procedures and accelerating the issuance of permits. This system has notably improved the pace of progress, further encouraging investment opportunities within the kingdom.
Al Khalifa explained that the introduction of the unified building regulations guide and the re-engineering of procedures, alongside the development of an electronic system, have significantly simplified the process of obtaining building permits. These efforts have led to permits being issued in a much shorter time frame.
In 2024, the Ministry issued approximately 6,550 building permits, with nearly 1,780 permits processed through the "Baniyat" system. On average, these permits were issued within just two working days. Residential building permits accounted for the largest share, around 70%, followed by investment buildings at 4.4%, and permits for projects of special nature at 22.3%.
Al Khalifa further noted that the "Baniyat" system undergoes continuous updates, with 11 new services introduced in the past year. These updates included large and small addition permits, as well as services for starting construction for both types of additions. Other services included the approval of government project permits, tower construction permits, permit renewals, demolition permits, and review services for communication towers.
Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to introduce improvements to various permits, including those for marine reclamation, land reclamation, partitioning, renovation, fencing, change of use, and merging permits, along with the construction start phase for other types of permits and reclamation review services.
Al Khalifa emphasized that the system also features a range of electronic links designed to facilitate user access. The Ministry is committed to enhancing its communication services and ensuring that feedback and suggestions are easily received by the relevant departments, in line with the ongoing plan to transition all Ministry services to electronic platforms, guaranteeing efficiency and high-quality outcomes.
It is important to note that the "Baniyat" system is responsible for issuing building permits for all types of projects in Bahrain, including investment, residential, industrial, commercial, and more. The system allows licensed engineering offices in Bahrain to submit building permit applications, inquire about application statuses, access consulting services from relevant government authorities, pay permit fees, and apply for other related building services. It also aids applicants in preparing the necessary documentation, drawings, and maps by providing access to building regulations and the Kingdom's interactive map, which outlines the specific requirements for each property.
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