King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain issued a royal order establishing the Council of Islamic Endowments Affairs, unifying the management of religious assets in the kingdom. The new council will operate under a single institutional framework, consolidating the oversight of Waqf affairs. It will be responsible for overseeing both Sunni and Jaafari Shi’ite Waqf matters throughout Bahrain. This move aims to streamline the administration of Islamic endowments, bringing previously separate entities under a single, centralised body. The unified council is expected to standardise procedures and enhance governance across all endowments. This significant step marks a new chapter in the management of religious assets within the kingdom, ensuring a cohesive approach to their administration.
Council Structure and Leadership
The Council of Islamic Endowments Affairs, established by royal order, will be chaired by Nawaf bin Mohammed Al Maawda, who also serves as the Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments. Mr. Al Maawda stated that the unified council is intended to function as "a regulatory, strategic and supervisory body overseeing the endowments sector in Bahrain, in support of institutional development and the principles of governance, efficiency and sustainability." He added that the council's responsibilities include "formulating general policies for the endowments sector, supervising and monitoring its work, and approving plans and strategies aimed at developing endowments and maximising their societal impact to strengthen their developmental role."
The council's board will consist of 12 members, each appointed for a four-year term. These members will bring diverse expertise to guide the strategic direction and oversight of the endowments. While the council provides overarching strategic direction, the existing Sunni Endowments Administration and the Jaafari Endowments Administration will retain their roles as the executive bodies. These administrations will continue to manage and implement the specific affairs of their respective endowments, operating within the unified regulatory framework established by the new council. This structure ensures that while strategic oversight is centralised, the day-to-day management and specific religious requirements of each sect's endowments are meticulously maintained.
Significance of Islamic Endowments
Islamic endowments, known as Waqf, represent a key aspect of religious and social infrastructure. These endowments play a significant role in funding mosques, religious activities, and various charitable initiatives across Bahrain and the wider Gulf region. Waqf assets contribute to community development by supporting educational programs, healthcare services, and aid for those in need. Their historical importance shows their continued relevance in contemporary society, providing essential services and support to communities.
Bahrain is home to both Sunni and Shi’ite communities, and Waqf institutions historically served each group separately. The management of these endowments has traditionally been a key element in supporting the religious and social fabric of both communities. The new unified council aims to streamline the oversight of these important assets while preserving their charitable and religious functions for the benefit of all citizens. The consolidation is intended to enhance the efficiency and transparency of Waqf operations, ensuring that these vital resources are managed effectively and accountably for future generations.
Ministerial Vision for Reform
The Council of Islamic Endowments Affairs has been established as a unified body to oversee both Sunni and Jaafari Shi'ite Islamic endowments within Bahrain. This new structure is set to integrate the management of these religious assets under a single operational framework. The royal order establishing this council is designated as No. 18 of 2026. This move represents a strategic effort to enhance the administration of waqf affairs across the kingdom, reflecting a commitment to modernising governance while respecting traditional structures.
The primary objective of this initiative is to strengthen the governance and coordination of Islamic charitable endowments. This will be achieved by bringing them together under a unified institutional umbrella, thereby fostering greater synergy and effectiveness in their operations. The government has indicated that this consolidation aims to streamline processes and improve efficiency while carefully preserving the distinct administrative and religious specificities pertinent to each sect. The unified council is intended to provide overarching strategic direction and supervision for the entire endowments sector, ensuring that the properties and funds are managed in a manner that maximises their societal impact and adheres to the highest standards of transparency and accountability. The establishment of this council shows Bahrain's commitment to supporting its religious institutions and the welfare of its citizens through well-managed and impactful charitable endowments.
