Privacy Law at Bahrain
Bahrain's Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL), enacted under Law No. (30) of 2018, establishes a comprehensive framework for the protection of personal data within the Kingdom. The law aims to safeguard individuals' privacy and ensure responsible data processing practices by organizations.
📜 Key Provisions of the PDPL
1. Definition of Personal Data Personal data encompasses any information, in any form, concerning an identified or identifiable individualThis includes, but is not limited to, names, identification numbers, passport numbers, phone numbers, membership numbers, personal photos, copies of documents, credit information, and email addresses
2. Lawful Basis for Data ProcessingData processing is permitted under the following conditions
Explicit consent from the data subject Contractual necessity for the performance of a contract Compliance with legal obligations Protection of vital interests Performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority Legitimate interests pursued by the data controller, provided these interests are not overridden by the data subject's rights and freedoms
3. Rights of Data Subjects Individuals are granted the following rights
4. Processing of Sensitive Personal Data Sensitive personal data, such as racial or ethnic origin, health data, and biometric data, require explicit consent for processing, unless processing is necessary for
5. Transfers of Personal DataTransferring personal data outside Bahrain is prohibited without the data subject's explicit consent, unless
6. **Data Protection Guardians (DPOs)**Organizations may appoint Data Protection Guardians (akin to Data Protection Officers) to oversee data protection activitiesb These individuals are responsible for ensuring compliance with the PDPL and must be registered with the Personal Data Protection Authority (PDPA)
⚖️ Enforcement and Penalties
Administrative Penalties The PDPA can impose administrative fines for violations, including
Criminal Penalties Serious violations may result in criminal prosecution, with penalties including
Civil LiabilitiesIndividuals who suffer damage due to unlawful processing of their personal data may claim compensation from the data controller
🏛️ Personal Data Protection Authority (PDPA
The Personal Data Protection Authority is responsible for overseeing and enforcing the provisions of the PDP. It is tasked with issuing necessary resolutions, conducting investigations, and ensuring compliance with the la
✅ Summary
Bahrain's Personal Data Protection Law establishes a robust framework for the protection of personal data, aligning with international standard. Organizations operating in Bahrain or processing data of Bahraini residents must ensure compliance with the PDPL to safeguard individuals' privacy rights and avoid potential penaltie.
RELATED Blog
0 comments