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WHO Awards Bahrain PM with Global Leader Healthcare Distinction

In a small island such as Bahrain, with a total population of around 1.5 million, one would think that social services including healthcare delivery has always been well taken care of.

ALSO READ: Bahrain Ranks No. 2 on Expat-Friendly List

Throughout history, Bahrain has managed to provide universal healthcare dating back to as early as 1960s. By this standard, government-provided health care has always been free to Bahraini citizens and heavily subsidised for non-Bahrainis. As such, the quality of health care in Bahrain is generally high and equal to that in Western Europe and the USA, except for highly specialised treatment.

Bahrain PM Recognized with Global Leader Healthcare Award

Because of such standards, Bahraini Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has been recognized by the World Health Organization for his leadership in advancing global healthcare, as shared in a report by Arabian Business.

Prince Khalifa was awarded the first-ever WHO Director-General’s Health Leaders Honour by the health organisation’s leader Dr. Tedros Adhanom.

The award has been given to the Bahraini leader for his commitment to creating access to affordable healthcare for the kingdom’s citizens.

His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of the #Bahrain ?? received WHO Director-General’s Health Leaders recognition to celebrate his outstanding political leadership in advancing health #WHA72

Watch live ? https://t.co/0Xn6WUxkeO pic.twitter.com/jnFkHMP9lD

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 20, 2019

https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

Healthcare in Bahrain

The Kingdom of Bahrain, for the longest time, has taken steps to provide nationals with free and heavily subsidised healthcare. Expats can also access this service, but will tend to receive subsidised services requiring a small co-payment.

Despite the country’s rapid development, Bahrain’s relatively small population means that long queues or delayed appointment times are uncommon, even in public healthcare facilities.

And while expats have access to the public system in Bahrain, many opt to get private medical insurance and to use private facilities instead of public ones. Expats will also find that the standard of care throughout the country is excellent as a large portion of healthcare workers come from the expat community, as well – however, it is important to be aware that specialist treatment centres may be limited and it may be necessary to seek such treatment outside of the country.

Overall, Bahrain as a country is continuously evolving, and with the current number of expats residing in the Kingdom, changes regarding healthcare costs, delivery, and accessibility, are expected to improve still.

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

Bahrain Ranks No. 2 on Expat-Friendly List

Expats move to another country for a number of reasons. Some highly regard the work opportunities available in a county, whereas others look at it through a more holistic approach, taking into consideration social and lifestyle factors, which fall under the quality of life index.

ALSO READ: Bahrain Places Travel Ban on Iraq, Iran Amid Tension in the Region

However, there is not one definitive quality of a country that residents and expats simply put into consideration to base their decision to move into the country. Depending on how long one intends to stay in a country, the social and local aspects will most likely come into play, as well.

Bahrain Places Second on Expand-Friendly Destinations – Survey

A recent survey released by InterNations, the world’s largest expat community, collected data from 18,000 expatriates representing 178 nationalities in 68 countries for its Expat Insider survey, ranked Bahrain at number 2 among the best countries in the world for expats to make friends.

Mexico topped the list, followed by Bahrain, and Serbia at number three.

Based on the responses of expats living in Bahrain, 77% of the group said that it was easy to make friends in the Gulf State, while 68% shared that it was quite easy to make friends with the locals in the Kingdom.

Moreover, almost 90% of the expats surveyed expressed happiness with their life in Bahrain.

Bahrain jumped four spots from number 6 to number 2 out of the 68 countries in terms of finding friends abroad within a year.

Sterling numbers as 77% of expats in the Kingdom find it easy to make new friends, while 68% said that connecting with the locals is not a problem either.

These numbers can be attributed to the general friendliness of the local population, as 92% of expats rate this factor positively.

Of note, 60% of expats surveyed reported that the locals in Bahrain were very friendly, which was twice the global average of 30%.

The report was compiled based on six categories: quality of life, ease of settling in, working abroad, family life, personal finance, and cost of living.

Based on the survey, expats found it hardest to make friends in Kuwait, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Norway, Finland, Austria, and Estonia.

According to the report, finding friends is often a major challenge for people moving abroad.

Recently, InterNations also ranked Bahrain as the second best country for women to work abroad, with around 88% of the respondents expressing satisfaction over their jobs in the Kingdom.

Manama, Bahrain’s capital, was also ranked by expats among the top 10 cities in the world for expats to live and work, based on another survey released in November by the German-based company.

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Important Hotlines and Contact Numbers in Bahrain

For those who are new to the Kingdom of Bahrain, it’s important to take note of agencies and local offices which you can contact in case there is an emergency or if you may be in need of certain kinds of help or services.

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

While Bahrain is just a small country, the Kingdom is steadily persevering to ensure that all of its residents, a wide majority of which are foreign nationals, get to enjoy services and social benefits with the aim of “leaving no one behind.” In essence, Bahrain is among the top destinations for work among expats because of the quality of life and benefits they get to enjoy living here.

Contact Numbers to Call for Emergencies in Bahrain

But for those who are just starting out their life in the kingdom, it’s good to pay attention to some of the basic information that you’ll need based on your situation as an expat or tourist in the country. For starters, below is a list of contact information you can access depending on the services and need that you may have for them:

EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Fire accidents – 997
Medical emergencies – 998
Legal or police situations – 999
Road accidents or traffic emergencies – 199

DIRECTORATES

Coast Guard – 1770 0000
Customs Affairs – 1735 9999
General Directorate of Anti-corruption and Economic and Electronic Security – 1774 9397
General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science – 1771 2718
General Directorate of Traffic – 1787 2287
Juvenile Care Centre – 1768 1043
Ministry of Interior – 1757 2222
Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs – 1753 0902
Women Police – 1787 0302

POLICE STATIONS

Airport Police Directorate – 1733 0515
Budaiya Police Station – 1769 9933
Busaiteen Police Station – 1732 0045
Capital Governorate Police Station – 1729 1555
East Riffa Police Station – 1777 3158
Exhibition Road Police Station – 1755 0629
Hala Police Station – 1733 7000
Hawak Police Station – 1784 9009
Hidd Police Station – 1767 1212
Hoora Police Station – 1729 1555
King Fahad Causeway Police Directorate – 1779 6555
Muharraq Governorate Police Station – 1739 0185
Northern Governorate Police Station – 1740 3111
Northern Hamad Town Police Station – 1741 8444
Nuaim Police Station – 1725 8210
Samaheej Police Station – 1733 4401
Southern Governorate Police Station – 1766 4606
Southern Hamad Town Police Station – 1743 0300
Um Al Hassam Police Station – 1772 8229
West Riffa Police Station – 1766 4606
Zallaq Police Station – 1763 1211

HELPFUL HOUSEHOLD-RELATED NUMBERS

Household Emergencies – 8000 1810
Electricity and Water Supply Repairs – 1751 5555

And because no one can tell where and when accidents or emergencies can happen, preparation is crucial for a safe and enjoyable stay anywhere. As a tip, make sure to highlight the information relevant to your location and needs, and keep this list somewhere accessible such as next to your landline, or somewhere it can be easily seen such as your work area or kitchen (right on the fridge). And even if we hope that nothing out of the ordinary or extreme happens to us, it will only be wishful thinking if we don’t do anything about it (or at least be ready in case it happens to us or to anyone we know that we can easily help out had we been extra prepared).

As a final tip, include the contact details of your home embassy in the country in the list for specific inquiries and types of services that you may need while staying overseas.

ALSO READ: Where to Go Shopping in Bahrain

Bahrain Places Travel Ban on Iraq, Iran Amid Tension in the Region

Amid the growing tension in the Middle East, onlookers are expressing concern as to the welfare of their citizens in the face of yet another impending face-off between the US, Iran, and Iraq.

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

Historically, there has been a fraught relationship between Iran and the US; however, the position of equally Iranian and US-backed Iraq will also come into play, should matters get out of hand. And since the countries involved are grounded by Islamic ties, neighbouring countries are closely watching the situation, not to mention its potential effect on the economic burdens the region has been experiencing in recent years.

Regional Tension Prompts Bahrain to Issue Travel Ban on Iraq, Iran

In line with this, Bahrain has ordered all of its citizens to immediately leave Iraq and Iran, amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, as shared in a report by Khaleej Times.

For those following the issue in the region, it can be recalled that earlier in May, the US ordered more of its naval and air forces to go into the region as a “warning” to Iran not to engage in any “provocative” acts, after Tehran had threatened shipping in the strategic Strait of Hormuz and also U.S. interests and allies.

A few days after, four civilian vessels were mysteriously attacked off the coast of the United Arab Emirates and Houthis, Iran’s allies in Yemen, targeted Saudi oil installations with drones.

The US operates two naval facilities in Bahrain and has maintained close cooperation with the Kingdom.

In an advisory released by the Foreign Ministry, Bahrainis have been banned from travelling to Iraq and Iran as concerns about a possible conflict have flared since the White House ordered warships and bombers to the region to counter an alleged, unexplained threat from Iran that has seen America order non-essential diplomatic staff out of Iraq.

In line with this, Bahrainis have also been instructed to exercise utmost caution and called on citizens living in the aforementioned countries to leave the country immediately, and to contact the following numbers for assistance:

Embassy of Bahrain in Baghdad: 009647814256980
Consulate of Bahrain in Najaf: 009647728672227
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 0097317227555

Bahrain is a small, Sunni-ruled island nation located off the coast of Saudi Arabia. It regularly accuses Iran of stirring dissent in its Shiite-majority population. Iran considers Bahrain a staunch supporter of its regional arch-rival, Saudi Arabia.

With the way things are developing, the call by the government to its citizens based in these affected nations is a precautionary measure to limit the incidences of casualties and to protect the interests of its people. At this point, the presence of warships and drones on either territory could only mean that neither of the countries involved intends to back down.

ALSO READ: Not Happy with Your Paid Leaves? Consider Working in This Country

British Council Warns Residents on Fake IELTS Certificates Sold Online

British Council Warn Bahrain Residents of Fake IELTS Certificates Sold Online

For those interested to work in the Kingdom of Bahrain, you would know that there are various kinds of document requirements that you need to provide your employer to secure a job. These requirements are also primarily based on the specialization or field of work that you intend to work in.

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

For some, that means taking certain qualification exams to receive certification for a professional job, and this may include taking a language exam such as IELTS in order to qualify for a position or to advance tenure in your job, as in the field of education or public service.

Authorities Caution Residents over Fake IELTS Certificates

In line with this, the British Council has warned residents of Bahrain regarding fake International English Language Testing System (IELTS) certification that is being offered online without taking the examination, as shared in a report by News of Bahrain.

According to Richard Rooze, director at British Council Bahrain, the council is aware of the issue and that they are taking necessary actions to address it.

He shared that it has come to their attention that there are ongoing widespread attempts to commit fraud using the name of IELTS, online and offline. As IELTS is the world’s most popular English language assessment test, it attracts all kinds of fraudsters who are out to mislead test takers to cash in on their need for IELTS results without taking the test proper to qualify for this certification, Rooze explained.

On the scamming methods used by fraudsters, Rooze noted that fraudsters usually advertise on social media channels and other dedicated websites while some even unscrupulously approach test takers personally at test and review centres to entice them with the scam.

Rooze added that in order to convince test takers, scammers would boldly claim that they have access to the IELTS database and that they can change scores and results that appear in the Online Results Verification System to trick them into buying a fake one instead.

Unfortunately, there is still a few number of test takers who fall for this kind of bogus offer. Ultimately though, those who purchase these fake certificates will find the (fake) document useless as they can’t be verified on the official online IELTS portal, Rooze justified.

And so, for those who have a need for this special kind of certification, it pays to note that there are no fast and easy ways to success. Those that have the most fulfilling and long-lasting results are the ones that you usually have to earn through the hard method. Acknowledging these scammers’ offers will only be a waste of time and money, as the fake documents will get you nowhere and they could even cause you trouble.

ALSO READ: Guide to Bahrain Labour Law: Policies on Wages

Not Happy with Your Paid Leaves? Consider Working in This Country

Do you feel like spending your years one after another, but don’t get the much-needed time off from work that you deserve?

ALSO READ: Guide to Bahrain Labour Law – Policies on Wages

Well then, consider looking for a job overseas in the Middle East, as one of the GCC nations is known to be on top of the world when it comes to the number of paid leaves given to employees. Imagine: tax-free pay and almost 50 paid vacation leaves in a year. How’s that for your idea of work-life balance?

Bahrain #1 in the World in Terms of Number of Paid Leaves

According to a study conducted by resume.io – a resume writing online service, the workforce in Bahrain is likely the happiest when it comes to annual paid leaves, which is sanctioned by the Bahrain Labour Law. Here, workers can get up to 49 paid leaves in a year, as shared in a report by the Khaleej Times.

Delightful? Definitely. Surprising? Not so much, as the 49 leaves are made up of regular 30 days annual paid leaves on top of 19 public holidays observed in the Kingdom, which include Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Arafat Day, National Day, Ashoora, and the Prophet’s Birthday. And as per international labour standards, workers in Bahrain are also entitled to sick leaves and maternity leaves without a pay cut, but this also depends on each company’s policy.

At present, there are over 1.4 million people residing in Bahrain, which is one of the 30 countries in the world that require to give workers an annual leave of 30 days.

Other countries where a 30-day annual leave is mandatory include Finland, France, Spain, Austria, and other GCC countries like Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE, as listed by a recent workforce study.

Given this opportunity, workers in Bahrain including expats can maximize their work leaves by visiting other countries and their home countries when it is most convenient to them without having to fear about limited time off from work to do so.

These are just some of the things which make working in the Middle East not only an ideal decision, but also an experience worth pursuing.

As of the latter part of Q2 of 2018, foreign worker employment in Bahrain reached 600,857. The economic sector with the highest number of new work permits for regular workers remain to be the construction sector, with a share of 33.0% of total regular work permits issued, followed by wholesale and retail trade sector, with a 17.9% share, and then the accommodation and food service activities sector at 12.6%, based on the most recent data released by Bahrain’s Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

Where to Go Shopping in Bahrain

The Middle East has long been known as a shopping haven because of its tax-free commodities and plethora of quality items from exotic spices and authentic Arabian carpets, to signature luxury purchases and precious metals.

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But for those who have not been to the region, or in Bahrain for that matter, it’s important to note where to get your stash of goodies and for the best prices, at that. In this post, we will share with you our top five shopping spots that you can check out when you’re visiting Bahrain.

Top 5 Shopping Destinations in Bahrain

Whether you’re on the hunt for local or international brands, it’d be good for you to note that you can head to local marketplaces (souqs) aside from shopping areas. But if you’re also looking for a great dining and entertainment experience, you can check into any of the following shopping malls in the country:

City Centre Bahrain – Boasting over 340 exclusive brands, 60 dining options, and a 20-screen cinema, City Centre Bahrain is undeniably the biggest shopping and entertainment destination in the country. Other than retail therapy and entertainment offerings, the establishment also houses Magic Planet and Wahooo! Waterpark – the biggest indoor-outdoor water park in the region.
Manama Souq – located just behind the Bab Al Bahrain in the capital city of Manama, the souq offers an extensive collection of shops where visitors can purchase handicrafts, perfumes, spices, textiles, and souvenirs, among others. Moreover, the souq has traditional coffee shops, where guests can try out local cuisines.
MODA Mall – located near the landmark Bahrain World Trade Centre, MODA Mall has been known to tourists and locals as a luxury shopping and dining destination. With over 80 fashion labels, top of the line international brands, and lush boutiques, the establishment is undoubtedly home to some of the most sought after global brands exclusive in the region.
Muharraq Souq – In the 1900s, the city of Muharraq was known to the world as the capital of Bahrain. This is the reason why a visit to this city will have travellers wide-eyed with historic buildings and traditional architecture. And in the mix of these, you will also find the Muharraq Souq, where you can buy a variety perfumes, textiles, and handicrafts.
Seef Mall – For the record, Seef Mall is the first authentic mall in the country. The mall has a 6-screen Cineplex and a 10- screen Megaplex, making the establishment one of the biggest entertainment cinema hubs in the region. The mall also houses Magic Island, an indoor theme park, which features rides and attractions for the whole family.

Whether you’re looking for a local flair or an international variety for your retail hunt, you can’t go wrong when you’re shopping in Bahrain as the Kingdom combines traditional offerings with modern provisions. The Kingdom even proudly banners its quality retail experience as its official tourism website promotes, “In Bahrain, shopping becomes a journey in itself.”

Image Credits: visitbahrain.bh

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Check Out These Amazing Beach Spots in Bahrain

Contrary to popular belief that it’s all desert and dunes in the Middle East, almost all Gulf nations have beautiful beach spots where tourists and locals can bask under the sun for a nice tan, beach parties, and other outdoor activities, such as playing sports or even going on a casual walk with a loved one.

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The thing is, whatever you want to do out in the sun, there is a great spot waiting for you in any of Bahrain’s beautiful beaches.

Beautiful Beaches to Visit in Bahrain

In this post, we will share with you some of the most popular beach spots in the Kingdom. The list offers both public and private locations, which are all just equally suitable for family gatherings and fun outdoor events.

Amwaj

Situated in the city of Muharraq, Amwaj offers crystal blue waters that are sure to captivate any visitor or traveller in the area looking for some R&R outdoors.

Of note, the city also hosts a number of exciting events, which include the Bahrain Boat Show, among others.

Coming from Amwaj, guests and tourists can also access a number of beautiful offshore destinations, such as the Jarada Island.

Jarada Island

You need to get your timing right if you want to visit Jarada Island, since this spot only appears during low tide and disappears during high tide. To get to this spot, you can get a speed boat ride from Coral Bay. The place is perfect for those who are looking for peace and privacy.

Coral Bay

Located in the capital city Manama, Coral Bay is a beach paradise for water sports enthusiasts, since they have boats, jet skis, and diving facilities for everyone to enjoy. The place also has a salon and spa for those who want some pampering, as well as restaurants with DJ and entertainment.

Bahrain Yacht Club

For more than five decades, the Bahrain Yacht Club in Sitra has been a spot where both expert and beginner sailors gather. The club is open to anyone who is interested to learn how to sail. Also, be sure to check out the fabulous parties and thrilling activities held in this spot.

Al Jazayr Beach

If you happen to be in Zallaq, be sure to check out Al Jazayr Beach as it is considered one of the best beaches in the country. In this beach, you will find the Bahrain Sailing Club, where you can rent out a boat and a room to stay the night. The place is also near Al Areen Wildlife Park, Bahrain International Circuit, and Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark – all of which can be visited over the weekend.

Karbabad Beach

This public beach is a favourite among locals and expats alike. The place is also great for those who want to go on a picnic or a casual walk along the sand by sundown. Other than going out splashing in the waters, be sure to capture the magnificent beach sunset for your Instagram travel post.

Marassi Al Bahrain

If you’re all about beach parties and social events, be sure to check out Marassi Al Bahrain in Diyar Al Muharraq, as this is arguably the best spot to enjoy chill beach parties while listening to some cool DJ sets. Sometimes, if you’re lucky enough, you may chance upon kayaking contests, paddle-boarding, and other fun competitions.

The Ritz-Carlton Beach

When you’re spending time in the Seef area, feel free to check out the pristine waterfront area where you can enjoy a luxurious beach experience. Aside from the beach, there is also a private marina, an island, and even a lagoon. If you’re big on watersport activities such as swimming, jet-skiing, kayaking, and the like, head over to the Ritz Carlton Beach for an exciting team at sea.

Whatever you want to experience where there’s water, sun, and sand involved, there’s a spot you can go to in Bahrain. With a little bit of planning, you can even get to attend special events and activities that are great for individuals and even for groups.

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[Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

There are many attractive places to work in the Middle East, but not all are as ideal as Bahrain, which has one of the strongest economies in the region as well as the warmest people to work with.

ALSO READ: Labour Laws in Bahrain: Working Hours and Rest Days

However, before you could even get a job in the country, you need to be acquainted first with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), which serves as the primary agency that handles all foreign workers coming into Bahrain. Through the LMRA, you will understand the requirements which you need to secure to apply for a work visa, identification card, and residency permit in the country.

An Expat’s Guide to Working in Bahrain

In this post, we will share with you some important information that you need to know about the LMRA to help you successfully land a job and hopefully build a career in this country:

What is the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA)?

As mentioned earlier, the LMRA handles all people coming into Bahrain for employment. This means that if you want to work in Bahrain, you have to go through the process for application set by the LMRA since they would also be the ones to issue entry visas, residency permits, and identification cards.

Also, the LMRA closely works with the Ministry of Health in organizing medical appointments or check-ups. Furthermore, the LMRA is also responsible for transferring workers’ work visa to other employers once their contract ends.

What are the requirements for Work Visa?

For those interested to work in Bahrain, here are the general requirements that you will need to prepare:

Visa application form
Valid passport
Passport size photographs
Letter of sponsorship
Photocopy of job contract
Health record from an authorized clinic
Processing fee of BD 1000

Note: The sponsorship letter is a letter of employment that should specify the worker’s name, date of birth, nationality, name of employer / company, commercial registration number, as well as salary.

What are the requirements for Residency Permit or Family Visa?

Meanwhile, for those who are looking to bring their families with them to Bahrain, the following are the requirements needed to acquire a residency permit or family visa:

Application form
Photocopies of your passport (including those of your family members)
Your employee sponsorship letter
Your job contract
Your family health record issued by an authorized clinic
Processing fee of BD 22 per applicant

Note: All of the above requirements are to be submitted to the LMRA. The General Department for Nationality and Passport Residence is responsible for the issuance of your family visa.

What are the requirements for Identification Card or CPR Card?

For those who need to obtain an identification card in Bahrain, also known as the CPR card, here are the following requirements that you need to present at the LMRA:

Valid passport
Letter of sponsorship indicating the name/s of your dependent/s (if any)
Marriage certificate (for spouse) and birth certificates (for children)
Processing fee of BD 1 per applicant

Other Things to Note:

Prior to leaving your home country, it’s important to perform the following measures:

Review the validity of your visa via the LMRA online portal.
Make sure that the clinic where you have availed your medical appointments is authorized and recognized by the LMRA to officially do so. You may visit their website to check their list of approved facilities.
Be sure to have the following documents with you:
- Passport (along with several copies)
- A photocopy of your LMRA-issued work visa
- A photocopy of your job contract
- Driver’s license (if any)
- Education and skills certification (where applicable)
For those travelling with a spouse or with children, be sure to have a copy of your marriage certificate as well as your children’s passport/s.

As you would prepare for travel to any country, you need to secure all the basic requirements, including those needed by your employer when going to Bahrain. To know more about the specific requirements or changes posted for this purpose, be sure to check out the LMRA website as a general guide for your preparations.

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Guide to Bahrain Labour Law: Policies on Wages

Bahrain has been one of the top work destinations in the Middle East, for OFWs and expats alike. Aside from the competitive salary package and tax-free earnings, many people also enjoy the benefits that come in working as a foreign national in the Kingdom, which include excellent basic services, quality health care, world-class shopping experience, and the many opportunities for travel in the country.

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

As a foreign resident working in the Kingdom, one of the most important things to note aside from your employment contract are the policies on labour and wages, which we will tackle in this post.

Understanding Policies on Wages in Bahrain

When it comes to working in Bahrain, here are some of the most important provisions on the Bahrain Law when it comes to salaries and wages:

Calculation of Wages and Payment

Salary may be calculated on a per hour, per day, or per month basis. This can also be calculated based on a piece rate or per production, as long as this is clearly specified on the employee’s labour contract (Article 38).
Salary and other amounts due to the worker must be paid in Bahraini currency (BR). Likewise, an agreement for payment in legal tender currency may also be arranged (Article 40).
Upon end of contract, the employee shall be paid their wages and other amounts they are due. However, in the instance where the employee decides to terminate his contract, the employer must settle the worker’s wages within seven (7) days from the date on which the employee ended his contract (Article 40).

Repayment of Loans

During the effectivity and validity period of a worker’s contract, the employer is not allowed to deduct more than one-tenth of the employee’s salary in repayment of loans. Similarly, the employer cannot charge any interest for these loans. This rule also applies to salaries that are given in advance (Article 44).
With regard to loans granted for house construction, the employer can increase the amount deducted from the worker’s wage by up to 25% only. Also, for this arrangement to be valid and lawful, it has to be put into writing with the worker’s written consent (Article 44).

Rights and Welfare of Employees

Wages and pay scale assigned to employees should not be discriminated based on gender, nationality, religion, or ideology (Article 39).
An employer is not allowed to designate an employee working on a monthly basis to one who works on an hourly, daily, weekly, or piece-rate basis without duly informing the employee or a written agreement approved by the latter (Article 41).
The employer should not force or compel their employee/s to purchase food, products, or services from establishments they own or by any third party offered by the employer (Article 42).

Aside from getting in depth with the provisions stipulated on the employment contract, the above details are just some of the basic things that every foreign worker in Bahrain should understand.

Disclaimer: The pieces of information provided in this post are intended for information-sharing purposes only. This should not be used as the sole and official basis or reference for actual labour concerns or any legal proceedings. To know more about the Bahrain Law, you may visit the website of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).