Bahrain

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has issued Royal Order No. 31 of 2026 calling for the convening of the Shura Council and the Council of Representatives. The announcement marks an important institutional step ahead of the opening of a new parliamentary session, in accordance with the constitutional provisions governing Bahrain’s legislative institutions.

According to the Royal Order announced early on Saturday, October 10, 2026, both parliamentary chambers have been called to meet on the afternoon of Sunday, October 11. The meeting will mark the opening of the fifth session of the sixth legislative term, allowing the two councils to resume their parliamentary responsibilities within the framework established by Bahrain’s Constitution and applicable laws.

Article One of the Royal Order formally establishes the date and timing of the meeting, while Article Two provides for the order to be published in the Official Gazette. These provisions set out the necessary formal arrangements for convening the two chambers and proceeding with the opening of the new parliamentary session under the country’s constitutional procedures.

The forthcoming session represents the beginning of another period of parliamentary activity, during which the Shura Council and the Council of Representatives may undertake their respective legislative and oversight responsibilities. Such activities can include examining proposed legislation, participating in parliamentary discussions, and addressing matters formally referred to each chamber in accordance with its legal powers.

The announcement forms part of Bahrain’s established constitutional system for organising the work of the National Assembly. The Constitution provides the general framework for parliamentary meetings, the duration of annual sessions, and the responsibilities of the two councils, supporting the continuity of legislative institutions and their functions throughout the parliamentary term.

The opening of the fifth session is expected to provide an opportunity for parliamentary business to resume and for matters falling within the councils’ responsibilities to be considered. However, the Royal Order itself does not announce specific new legislation, identify proposed policy changes, or establish additional executive measures affecting the public.

The development also highlights the institutional role of Bahrain’s two parliamentary chambers and the procedures through which their activities are organised. By formally convening both councils, the Royal Order establishes the arrangements for the next stage of parliamentary proceedings and the continuation of legislative work under the country’s constitutional framework.

Importantly, Royal Order No. 31 of 2026 specifically concerns the convening of the Shura Council and Council of Representatives. The published text does not introduce amendments to immigration, employment, residency, visa, or government fee regulations, and it should not be interpreted as announcing immediate changes to the legal obligations of citizens or expatriate residents.