6 days ago
Bahraini consumers are increasingly attracted to luxury cars, with market revenues expected to reach USD 43 million in 2024. This growth comes alongside a notable shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as a rising demand for high-end SUVs. A recent report from Statista predicts that Bahrain’s luxury car market will generate revenues of USD 43 million this year, with an annual growth rate of 12.19% anticipated until 2028, resulting in a projected market size of USD 67 million by that time. Sales are expected to reach 600 units in 2024, with the average price anticipated to hit USD 105,000. The report reveals a steady increase in luxury car sales in Bahrain over the past year, driven by rising disposable incomes and a growing interest in premium vehicles. Consumers are drawn to luxury cars for their superior quality, advanced features, and the prestige associated with their brands. Key trends include a shift towards electric and hybrid models, reflecting consumers’ increasing environmental awareness. This shift has led manufacturers to broaden their offerings, presenting a wider array of electric and hybrid vehicles to meet the changing preferences of the market. Additionally, luxury SUVs are gaining popularity as Bahraini customers seek spacious […]
1 week ago
A 38-year-old Asian man has been sentenced to three years in prison and deportation after being found guilty of possessing and using a forged passport. Ironically, he claimed during the initial trial that he was unaware that using a forged passport was a crime and intended to use it only in emergencies. The ruling was upheld by the Court of Cassation, Bahrain’s highest court, after the defendant failed to file his appeal within the legal timeframe. The man was initially convicted by the High Criminal Court, which sentenced him to three years imprisonment, deportation after serving his sentence, and confiscation of the forged passport. The Court of Cassation, while acknowledging the defendant’s appeal, ultimately rejected it on grounds that the appeal was filed late and that the defendant was no longer eligible for a review of his sentence. The defendant was accused of colluding with a government official to enter false information into the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) system. He presented a forged passport to a customs official at Bahrain International Airport, claiming it belonged to him. The passport official, however, became suspicious of the man’s behaviour and noticed discrepancies in the passport’s information and photograph. During the […]
1 week ago
The Traffic Operations and Monitoring Directorate of the General Directorate of Traffic in Bahrain has announced issuing 582 tickets to drivers for violating emergency lane regulations during September. The crackdown targeted drivers who were caught using the emergency lane (marked with a yellow line) for overtaking. The department stressed that such violations not only disrupt traffic flow but also endanger other road users. In the event of a vehicle breakdown in the emergency lane, it obstructs the passage of emergency vehicles, hindering their ability to respond to emergencies. Additionally, using the emergency lane for overtaking violates the rights of other drivers who may require its use for legitimate reasons. The Traffic Operations and Monitoring Directorate has assured the public that it will continue to intensify traffic monitoring on major roads and highways to ensure compliance with traffic laws. The department also highlighted its ongoing awareness campaigns, conducted both in the field and through media and social media platforms, to educate the public about the dangers of such violations and the importance of responsible driving behavior.
1 week ago
In the centre of historic Muharraq, where tradition meets modernity, the Pearl Museum at Siyadi Majlis showcased a rare collection of eight pieces of natural pearl adorned jewellery, belonging to the Al Zayani family. This unique collection features the rich cultural exchange between East and West, and includes jewelry crafted by some of the world’s most renowned designers. One of the most remarkable items on display is a natural pearl necklace consisting of thirty-seven graduated pearls, which belonged to Maharani Gayatri Devi, Consort of His Highness Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II of Jaipur, India. This necklace has previously been exhibited at international shows in Paris, Venice, and Beijing. The museum also features a palm-shaped brooch made of natural pearls and diamonds, designed by Cartier in 1950. The collection also includes exquisite pieces by Bhagat, one of the most famous jewellery designers of the modern era, such as a pair of natural pearl and diamond earrings, along with a ring featuring a spinel stone, rose-cut diamonds, and natural pearls. The collection includes natural pearl earrings designed by Saba, two natural pearl necklaces, and a pair of pearl and diamond earrings designed by Boghossian. The Pearl Museum is part of the UNESCO […]
1 week ago
A man admitted to fatally stabbing his roommate with a kitchen knife after a violent row broke out between the pair at their shared residence, the Northern Governorate Prosecution confirmed. Authorities were alerted by the Northern Governorate Police Directorate, leading to the quick arrest of the suspect, identified as a man of Asian nationality. According to the Public Prosecution, the victim was of the same nationality. The weapon, a kitchen knife, was seized at the scene. Prosecutors wasted no time in launching their investigation, visiting the scene, gathering evidence, and arranging a forensic examination of the body to determine the exact cause of death. Witnesses have been questioned as part of the ongoing inquiry. Investigators are still piecing together the full details of what led to the attack.
1 week ago
Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) unveils a stunning collection of Bahraini artworks in collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA). The displayed artworks feature masterpieces by 14 of Bahrain’s most renowned artists. This captivating collection, which spans the main concourse and the exhibition concourse of EWB on creatively installed panels, showcases a diverse range of artistic expressions, from breathtaking landscapes to thought-provoking abstracts. The official launch event was attended by Dana AlSaad, Deputy CEO for Resources and Projects at the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Farah Mattar, Director General of Culture and Museums at BACA, as well as fine arts representatives and media personnel. The renowned roster of Bahraini artists includes Balqees Fakhro, Abbas Al Mosawi, Jaffar AlOraibi, AbdulRahim Sharif, Ali Al Mahmeed, Khalid AlTahmazi, Mariam Fakhro, Shafeeqa AlHermi, Abbas Yousif, Hussain AlSunni, Badeea Bubshait, AbdulElah AlArab, Omar AlRashid and Abdulkarim Al Orrayedh. EWB continues to reinforce its responsibility towards supporting the local community, especially advancing cultural trends. The venue’s role extends beyond mere exhibition; it is a pivotal supporter of social and cultural activations. By displaying Bahraini artworks during various events, EWB provides artists with invaluable opportunities to gain exposure, receive international recognition and engage with […]
1 week ago
The Criminal Investigations Directorate of the General Directorate of Criminal Investigations and Forensic Evidence has arrested a 43-year-old Asian man for the murder of another Asian man, aged 37, in the A’ali area. According to a statement, police received a report of the crime and immediately launched an investigation. The investigation led to the identification and subsequent arrest of the suspect, who had fled the scene. The suspect is alleged to have used a sharp object to kill the victim. The General Directorate of Criminal Investigations and Forensic Evidence stated that the necessary legal procedures have been taken and the case has been referred to the Public Prosecution.
1 week ago
The Public Prosecution has announced the conclusion of its investigation into a human trafficking case and has referred three Asian suspects to the Criminal Court. The trial is scheduled for September 22, 2024, before the High Criminal Court. As per the statement, the Public Prosecution received a report from the Anti-Human Trafficking Directorate of the General Directorate of Criminal Investigations and Forensic Evidence. The victim alleged that she was lured to Bahrain under the pretense of working as a domestic helper. Upon arrival, she was confined to an apartment and threatened, forcing her into prostitution. The Public Prosecutor stated that the Public Prosecution initiated an investigation immediately upon receiving the report. The investigation included taking the victim’s statement, where she detailed her ordeal. Shelter As part of standard procedures in such cases, the Public Prosecution ordered the victim’s placement in a shelter run by the National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons. “Two suspects were interrogated and detained, while a warrant was issued for the arrest of the third suspect. The police were tasked with conducting investigations to determine the circumstances and details of the case,” the statement stated, adding: “After concluding the investigation and gathering sufficient evidence, the Public […]
1 week ago
A parliamentary proposal to shift funding for the Unemployment Fund from payroll deductions to value-added tax (VAT) revenues has prompted a stark warning from the government. Officials argue that this change could destabilise the unemployment insurance system and exacerbate the strain on the state budget. The bill seeks to eliminate unemployment insurance deductions from insured individuals and allocate 1% of VAT revenues to the Unemployment Fund. The government argues that this approach undermines the core principles of the unemployment insurance system, effectively turning it into a social security scheme that could jeopardise the public budget. In its explanatory note, the government highlighted that the constitution requires the state to provide necessary social security for citizens facing various challenges, including unemployment. This duty supports the principles of social solidarity that are vital for society. The government stated: ‘The state does not solely bear the requirements of social insurance, nor can it alone shoulder its burdens without others,’ stressing the importance of beneficiaries contributing to the funding through their subscriptions. The unemployment insurance system, established under Decree-Law No. 78 of 2006, aims to provide a steady income for those who find themselves unemployed. Contributions come from both insured individuals and their employers, […]
2 weeks ago
The High Criminal Court has scheduled a hearing for September 29th for an Asian man convicted of fraud and sentenced to three years in prison, a BD 1,000 fine, and deportation. The man, in a matter of seconds, managed to convince an expat teacher that he was a company employee and that they needed to update their data. This allowed him to withdraw BD 1,188 in two separate transactions. The Public Prosecution charged the defendant with collaborating with an unknown accomplice to use the victim’s electronic signature, specifically the bank card verification code, through fraudulent means. The prosecution argued that the defendant, through communication with the victim, obtained her banking information, entered the data and verification code into a technological system, and subsequently stole the money. The crime was committed through collaboration and assistance. The defendant was also charged with collaborating with an unknown accomplice to access the victim’s information technology system and bank accounts without legal justification, with the intent of transferring funds. The incident involved a foreign teacher in her 40s who reported that her bank accounts were fraudulently accessed. An unknown individual contacted her, claiming to be a company employee, and requested a data update. After she […]