Bahrain Decree-Law No. 54/2018 On the Issuance of the Electronic Communications and Transactions Law is a significant piece of legislation introduced in Bahrain, and came into force on 1 February 2019, 60 days after its publication in the Official Gazette.

Bahrain Decree-Law No. 54/2018 was introduced to enhance the legal framework for electronic communications and transactions in Bahrain and repeals Bahrain Decree-Law No. 28/2002 On Electronic Transactions.

One of the key provisions of Bahrain Decree-Law No. 54/2018 is the recognition and acceptance of electronic signatures, which are considered under the law to be legally binding and equivalent to handwritten signatures and aims to promote the use of electronic documents and transactions thereby reducing the reliance on traditional paper-based communications.

In addition, Bahrain Decree-Law No. 54/2018:

• Sets out guidelines and requirements for the validity, reliability and retention of electronic communications.

• Emphasises the importance of consent and safeguards individuals' rights in relation to electronic communications.