Regulatory Compliance News

Bahrain TRA Authorizes Wi-Fi 7 Technology and Updates License-Exempt Spectrum Framework

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of the Kingdom of Bahrain officially updated its regulatory framework to authorize next-generation Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE 802.11be) technology across the nation. By updating its Technical Specifications Requirements for Type Approval, the TRA enables equipment operating on advanced multi-link operations (MLO) and wider channel bandwidths to secure commercial device authorization. Building on the earlier allocation of the lower 6 GHz spectrum band (5925–6425 MHz) for unlicensed Radio Local Area Network (RLAN) applications, this regulatory shift allows consumer electronics, enterprise access points, and industrial IoT devices to leverage higher data throughput and lower latency across Bahrain’s wireless ecosystem.

Following the initial adoption of Wi-Fi 7 standards, the TRA expanded its spectrum governance by releasing a Position Paper on the Use of License-Exempt Frequency Bands alongside an updated Version 1.1 of its Technical Specifications Requirements for Type Approval. The updated regulations clarify operational rules for short-range devices and license-exempt equipment across the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands. While license-exempt devices operate without individual frequency site licenses, all Wi-Fi 7 hardware, wireless terminals, and short-range radio devices imported, distributed, or sold in Bahrain must undergo mandatory TRA type approval based on technical test reports issued by ISO/IEC 17025 accredited testing laboratories.

To maintain market access under the revised technical baseline, manufacturers and local representatives must review existing device certifications against the updated Version 1.1 technical specifications. Equipment vendors should perform gap analyses to confirm that current compliance test reports, radio frequency parameters, and exposure documentation align with the TRA's latest technical requirements. Furthermore, as the authority continues to review spectrum allocation policies—including light licensing frameworks and future options for the upper 6 GHz band—manufacturers seeking type approval must ensure all newly introduced Wi-Fi 7 hardware displays valid compliance documentation to prevent import delays at customs.