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Manama

Bahrain
Restricted
Last updated: 2026-06-24  ·  Last verified: 2026-06-24  ·  Region: International

At a Glance — Manama Airbnb & STR Rules

RuleDetails
Regulatory StatusRestricted — rules apply
Permit / License RequiredYes (Furnished tourist apartment licenses required for commercial listings)
Tax RateSubject to the BHD 3 per room per night tourism levy (where applicable)
Permit FeeVaries by property size
PenaltiesFines for zoning violations and operating unlicensed lodging establishments.
Primary Residence RequiredNo
Occupancy LimitStandard safety limits
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Manama Airbnb & Vacation Rental Regulation Overview

Manama Short-Term Rental Regulations Overview

Short-term rentals in Manama are allowed but subject to significant restrictions under local regulations as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes (Furnished tourist apartment licenses required for commercial listings). The associated permit fees are Varies by property size.

Tax Requirements for Airbnb Hosts in Manama

Short-term rental operators in Manama should be aware of these tax obligations: Subject to the BHD 3 per room per night tourism levy (where applicable).

Hosting Rules and Restrictions in Manama

Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in Manama include: Primary residence requirement: No. Occupancy limit: Standard safety limits.

Zoning and Location Requirements in Manama

Zoning considerations for short-term rentals in Manama: Yes (Prohibited in areas zoned exclusively for single-family residential housing). Insurance: No.

Penalties for Non-Compliance in Manama

Hosts who fail to comply with Manama's short-term rental regulations may face enforcement action. Fines for zoning violations and operating unlicensed lodging establishments..

Full Regulatory Details

Regulatory Status
Restricted
License / Registration
Yes (Furnished tourist apartment licenses required for commercial listings)
Tax Registration
Yes
Permit Fee
Varies by property size
Primary Residence Rule
No
Occupancy Limit
Standard safety limits
Tax Rate
Subject to the BHD 3 per room per night tourism levy (where applicable)
Zoning Restrictions
Yes (Prohibited in areas zoned exclusively for single-family residential housing)
Insurance Required
No
Compliance Notes
Zoning laws prohibit renting out furnished tourist apartments in areas designated exclusively for residential housing. Commercial licensing is required for dedicated tourist flats. High-rise condo complexes commonly enforce strict HOA rental caps or bans.
Effective Date
2026-06-24
Key Notes
STRs prohibited in residential zones; tourism license and tourism levy apply to commercial operations.
Penalties
Fines for zoning violations and operating unlicensed lodging establishments.
Additional Context
Very active luxury market catering to regional weekend travelers.
Sources
Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Airbnb legal in Manama?

Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in Manama but subject to restrictions. Hosts must comply with local permit requirements and zoning rules. Zoning laws prohibit renting out furnished tourist apartments in areas designated exclusively for residential housing. Commercial licensing is required for dedicated tourist flats. High-rise condo com

Do you need a permit for Airbnb in Manama?

Yes. Manama requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes (Furnished tourist apartment licenses required for commercial listings).

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Manama?

Short-term rental hosts in Manama are subject to the following tax obligations: Subject to the BHD 3 per room per night tourism levy (where applicable).

What are the penalties for illegal Airbnb hosting in Manama?

Hosts who operate without proper permits in Manama may face enforcement. Fines for zoning violations and operating unlicensed lodging establishments..

What are the key STR compliance requirements in Manama?

STRs prohibited in residential zones; tourism license and tourism levy apply to commercial operations.

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