Draft amendments to the Labour Law are being considered

At a glance

• The Shura Council in Bahrain is reviewing a draft amendment to the Labour Law aimed at improving employee rights and aligning regulations with international standards.
• Proposed reforms include stronger job security, clearer contract terms, protections against unfair dismissal, and enhancements to workplace equality, safety, and dispute resolution.
• If implemented, employers would need to submit financial evidence from the past three years along with written notice to the Ministry of Labour.
• The final content and extent of the changes will depend on the outcomes of current discussions amongst the Shura Council and the legislative process ahead.

The Shura Council in Bahrain is currently reviewing a draft amendment to the nation's Labour Law. This legislative development focuses on employee rights and labour relations, signalling potential reforms intended to improve protections and working conditions for employees across the country. The proposed amendment is undergoing consideration and debate within the Shura Council, reflecting ongoing efforts to align Bahrain’s labour regulations with international standards and address the evolving needs of the workforce. The final content and extent of the changes will depend on the outcomes of these discussions and the legislative process ahead.

The amendment aims to address several core issues, such as enhancing job security, clarifying contract terms, strengthening provisions against unfair dismissal, and promoting workplace equality and safety. Some proposals under consideration may include adjustments to working hours, leave entitlements, dispute resolution mechanisms, and procedures for collective bargaining.

If the draft amendment were to be implemented in its current form. Employers would be required to submit evidence to confirm the financial position of the company in the past three years together with the written notice submitted to the Ministry of Labour.