Manama: The Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) noted that defining urban development zones in the Kingdom of Bahrain aims to promote sustainable urban planning and regulate balanced urban growth. This initiative aligns with the Ministerial Decision (788) of 2024 concerning the subdivision of land designated for development, which aims to enhance infrastructure development and strengthen public-private sector partnerships.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the authority said that the Ministerial Decision (217) of 2025, which prohibits land subdivision in certain areas where infrastructure facilities are unavailable, incomplete, or insufficient to support the requested subdivision, is intended as a temporary measure. The restriction will be lifted once the underlying reasons are resolved, ensuring that land subdivision and urban development processes adhere to clear standards that enhance the urban environment and provide comprehensive infrastructure.
UPDA highlighted that an approved mechanism is in place to assess each subdivision request individually, ensuring alignment with development requirements while maintaining flexibility to support various urban projects. A specialised team has also been formed to review and respond to subdivision requests within five days, accelerating procedures and supporting investors and real estate developers.
Regarding the urban development zones map or infrastructure availability map, accompanying Ministerial Decision (217) of 2025, UPDA underscored that the map serves as a guideline for reference and is subject to modification based on on-site assessments. It is continuously updated based on data provided by relevant service authorities.
The authority emphasised that a red designation on the map does not necessarily indicate the absence of infrastructure; rather, it may signify the lack of a specific infrastructure service or that the capacity of existing facilities is insufficient for additional subdivision. The completion of missing infrastructure services remains possible through established procedures with the relevant service entities.
Additionally, UPDA noted that the procedural guide prepared by the Ministry of Works, in coordination with UPDA and other relevant entities, provides a comprehensive and simplified outline of the necessary procedures for implementing infrastructure works in major subdivision plans. The guide is available on UPDA's official website: (www.upda.gov.bh).
The authority underscored that these measures align with efforts to ensure sustainability in the urban sector in accordance with the Kingdom's strategic urban and developmental plans.