Breaking Down Bahrain’s Labor Laws for Foreign-Owned Businesses

Key Aspects of Bahrain’s Labor Law

Bahrain’s Labor Law No. 36 of 2012 governs the relationship between employers and employees in the private sector. It outlines key provisions regarding hiring, work conditions, benefits, and dispute resolution.

1. Employment of Foreign Nationals

Foreign businesses operating in Bahrain often rely on expatriate employees. Companies must comply with work permit requirements and labor market regulations to hire foreign workers legally.

✔ Work Permits: Employers are responsible for obtaining work permits for expatriate employees through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

✔ LMRA Registration: All foreign employees must be registered with the LMRA, ensuring they meet the necessary work eligibility criteria.

✔ Fair Treatment: Bahrain’s labor laws protect foreign employees from discrimination and exploitation, ensuring equal treatment and access to fair wages and benefits.

2. Working Hours & Overtime Regulations

Bahrain’s labor law defines standard working hours and provides regulations for overtime compensation to ensure fair treatment of employees.

✔ Standard Workweek: The workweek is 48 hours (8 hours per day, 6 days a week).

✔ Ramadan Work Hours: During Ramadan, Muslim employees work reduced hours—36 hours per week instead of 48.

✔ Overtime Pay:

• Employees working beyond 48 hours per week are entitled to at least 125% of their standard wage.
• Work on rest days or public holidays entitles employees to 150% pay plus a compensatory day off.

3. Wages & Employee Benefits

Foreign-owned businesses must comply with wage policies, social security contributions, and end-of-service benefits in Bahrain.

✔ Minimum Wage: There is no universal minimum wage, but Bahraini nationals are entitled to minimum salaries based on education level.

✔ Payment of Wages: Employers must pay wages on time and provide employees with detailed payslips.

✔ Deductions from Wages: Allowed only for social security contributions, tax obligations, or court-ordered payments.

✔ End-of-Service Benefits (Gratuity Pay):

• Employees with 3-5 years of service: 15 days’ salary per year.
• Employees with 5+ years of service: One month’s salary per year.

4. Leave Entitlements & Holidays

Employees in Bahrain are entitled to various forms of paid and unpaid leave, ensuring work-life balance and job security.

✔ Annual Leave: Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year after completing one year of service.

✔ Sick Leave:

• 15 days full pay
• 20 days half pay
• 20 days unpaid if needed

✔ Maternity Leave: Female employees are entitled to 60 days of paid maternity leave and an additional 15 days of unpaid leave if required.

✔ Hajj Leave: Muslim employees can take 14 days of paid leave once in their career for Hajj pilgrimage.

5. Employment Contracts & Probation Periods

✔ Written Contracts: All employees must have written employment contracts detailing their job role, salary, benefits, and working conditions.

✔ Arabic Translation Required: While contracts can be written in English, an official Arabic translation must be attached.

✔ Probation Period: Employers may set a probation period of up to six months, during which termination requires only one day’s notice.

6. Termination of Employment & Notice Period

✔ Notice Period: Employees must be given 30-90 days’ notice, depending on contract terms and length of service.

✔ Valid Termination Grounds:

• Misconduct or underperformance.
• Violation of contractual obligations.
• Business restructuring or redundancy.

✔ Termination Benefits: Employees may be entitled to severance pay or other benefits based on termination reasons.

7. Trade Unions & Collective Bargaining

✔ Employee Rights: Employees in Bahrain can form and join trade unions to protect their rights and advocate for better conditions.

✔ Collective Bargaining: Trade unions negotiate agreements with employers on behalf of employees.

8. Labor Dispute Resolution in Bahrain

✔ Ministry of Labor: Employees can file complaints with the Ministry of Labor for labor law violations.

✔ LMRA Grievances Center: Resolves workplace disputes involving expatriate workers.

✔ Legal Action: Employees and employers can take disputes to Bahrain’s labor courts for resolution.

Labor Law Compliance Sheet for Employers

💡 Pro Tip: Stay updated with LMRA and Ministry of Labor announcements for any changes in labor laws.

Final Thoughts: Ensuring Compliance & Business Success in Bahrain

Bahrain’s labor laws provide a fair and structured framework for businesses and employees, ensuring a balanced work environment. Foreign-owned businesses must stay compliant with hiring practices, employee benefits, and contract regulations to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations.

📌 Need help with labor law compliance, business setup, or hiring processes? Our team provides expert consultancy to guide you through every step. Contact us today to ensure your business is fully compliant with Bahrain’s labor laws!