INTERNATIONAL PARENTAL CHILD ABDUCTION IN BAHRAIN
Dual Nationality The
government of the Bahrain does not recognize "dual nationality". When
the father is a citizen of Bahrain, children automatically acquire
Bahrain citizenship at birth, regardless of where the child was born,
and must enter the country on Bahrain passports. Custody Disputes When
child custody disputes arise between parents, one of whom is a citizen
of the Bahrain, custody decisions are based on Islamic law. There are
two Islamic courts in Bahrain, a Shi’a and a Sunni court. As such,
specific disputes are examined case-by-case. Child custody cases are
complex. Bahrain courts consider the parents’ religion, place of
permanent residence, income, and the mother’s subsequent marital
status. Non-Bahrain citizens are free to file a custody case. Right of Custody Bahrain
courts do not as a general rule award custody of "dual national"
(U.S./Bahrain) children to an American mother, even one who is a
Muslim. However, custody of a boy under age 7 or a girl under age 9 may
be given to the mother. Under Islamic law, the mother can jeopardize
her right of custody if she remarries. Travel Restrictions of Minor Children When
custody disputes arise and a custody case is before the local court,
children, regardless of their nationality, are generally subject to
court imposed travel bans. Even when custody is not an issue, the
father can request that the court restrict the travel of minor children.
