🇧🇭 Bahrain

Bahrain has a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies under the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), with the CBB Rulebook Volume 6 — CRA Module governing crypto assets. The regulatory environment is well-established and supportive of crypto activities.

Overview

StatusLegal
Risk Score20/100 (Low Risk)
Regionmiddle east
CurrencyBHD
Adoption Rank#35

Tax Information

Capital Gains (Personal)0% (no personal income or capital gains tax)
Capital Gains (Corporate)0% (no corporate tax)
VAT on CryptoNo

Licensing & Registration

RequiredYes
RegulatorCBB
FrameworkCBB Rulebook Volume 6 — CRA Module
Easemedium
Cost (USD)$15,000 - $125,000

Licensing is regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain under Volume 6 of the CBB Rulebook, requiring compliance with capital and operational requirements.

Enforcement Activity

Level: Low

The CBB has issued warnings about unlicensed crypto platforms but enforcement actions have been limited. The focus has been on licensing and market development rather than punitive enforcement.

AML / KYC

KYC RequiredYes
Travel RuleYes
FATF MemberNo
FATF Statusfsrb_only
FATF BodyMENAFATF
Suspicious-Activity ReportingYes

DeFi, Stablecoins & NFTs

Status: regulated

DeFi activities are regulated under the CBB framework, requiring compliance with AML and licensing rules.

Stablecoins

Status: regulated

Stablecoins are regulated under the CBB framework with specific requirements for issuance and operation.

NFTs

Status: no_rules

No NFT-specific regulation. The CBB crypto-asset module does not specifically address NFTs. NFTs with investment characteristics could potentially fall under existing securities regulation.

Mining

LegalYes
Electricity Cost$0.029/kWh
Renewable Energy1%
Infrastructuregood

Mining is legal with low electricity costs and good infrastructure, but renewable energy usage is minimal.

Geopolitical Risk

Stabilitystable
SanctionsNo
Corruption Index45/100
Banking Accessopen

Risk Factors

Bahrain is politically stable with open banking access and free internet, though regional tensions pose some risk.

Sources

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Last reviewed: 2026-04-13 · Data source: Soken Crypto Legal Map

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