Bahrain

Bahrain's major cities include A’ali, Muharraq, Riffa and Isa Town, with Manama being its capital.

1. Manama

Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, serves as the economic and cultural heart of the nation. It is a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyline, vibrant souks and rich history. The city hosts numerous financial institutions and businesses, making it a central hub for commerce in the region. Key attractions include the Bahrain National Museum, the World Trade Centre and the Bab Al Bahrain souk, which offer a glimpse into the country's heritage and contemporary lifestyle.

2. A’ali

A’ali is renowned for its rich archaeological significance, particularly the ancient burial mounds that date back to the Dilmun civilisation. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in Bahrain and its historical sites attract both scholars and tourists. Besides its archaeological importance, A’ali is also known for its pottery industry, where traditional techniques have been preserved and passed down through generations. The town offers a blend of historical charm and modern residential developments.

3. Muharraq

Muharraq, an island city, was once the capital of Bahrain and remains an important cultural centre. It is famous for its traditional Bahraini architecture and narrow alleyways that lead to historic homes and buildings, many of which have been restored as museums and cultural centres. The city is also home to Bahrain International Airport and the bustling Muharraq Souq, where visitors can experience a lively market atmosphere. Muharraq's rich heritage is showcased through landmarks such as the Sheikh Isa bin Ali House and the Arad Fort.

4. Riffa

Riffa is one of the largest cities in Bahrain and is divided into two main sections: East Riffa and West Riffa. East Riffa is known for its commercial activities and retail centres, while West Riffa is predominantly residential, hosting many of the royal family members and elite. The city boasts several historical and recreational sites, including the Riffa Fort, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas. Additionally, Riffa is home to the Royal Golf Club, one of the premier golf courses in the region.

5. Isa Town

Isa Town, named after Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the former ruler of Bahrain, is a well-planned residential area known for its educational institutions and sporting facilities. The city houses the Bahrain National Stadium, the country's largest sports venue, which hosts various national and international events. Isa Town is also famous for its traditional markets, such as the Isa Town Market, where one can find an array of goods from fresh produce to textiles. The town's layout and infrastructure make it a convenient and desirable place to live.

According to the 2010 census by the Central Informatics Organisation, Bahrain had a total population of 1,234,571. By 2014, the estimated population was 1.316 million, projected to reach 1.592 million in 2020 and 2.128 million by 2030, up from 621,000 in 1999. The population growth rate averages 7.4%. Roughly half of the population is Arab, with native-born Bahrainis including some Palestinians, Omanis and Saudis. Foreign-born residents, making up about half of the population, mainly come from Iran, India, Pakistan, Britain and the United States. Approximately three-fifths of the labour force is foreign-born and 85% of the population resides in the capital city, Manama.

Bahrain is situated at 26º North Latitude, three hours ahead of GMT. Its varied topography includes rocky deserts, lush vegetation, sandy beaches, traditional architecture and parks. The best climatic conditions are from November to March, with cool evenings in December and March. From May to September, the weather is very hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 30º to 40º Celsius, often accompanied by hot, dry winds and sandstorms. For the rest of the year, temperatures range from 20º to 30º Celsius.

Bahrain is 2 hours and 30 minutes behind India. When it is noon in Bahrain, it is 2:30 PM in India. The flight distance between Bahrain and India varies depending on the destination within India but a common route from Bahrain to Mumbai covers approximately 2,500 kilometres (1,550 miles). The flight time for this route typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the airline, city of boarding as well as specific flight conditions.

In Bahrain, Arabic is the official language and widely spoken across the country. English is also widely used, especially in business and commerce and is taught in schools as a second language. Additionally, due to the multicultural nature of Bahrain, languages such as Urdu, Farsi and Malayalam are spoken by significant expatriate communities within the country.

Bahrain embraces a rich mix of communities and cultures. Indian residents have set up schools and social groups through the Coordination Committee of Indian Associations (CCIA). Despite Islam being the predominant religion of the native people, Bahrain welcomes non-Muslims to build churches, temples and gurudwaras, showing its support for religious diversity and tolerance.

Bahraini cuisine showcases a fusion of Arabian, Persian and Indian influences, offering a diverse range of flavours and dishes.

Vegan Dishes: Batata Harra, Tabbouleh, Baba Ghanoush, Foul, etc.

Vegetarian Dishes: Jareesh, Falafel, Samboosa, Baharaini Mixed Veg Stew, etc.

Non-Vegetarian dishes: Machboos, Harees, Samak Meshwi, Mahyawa, etc.

The currency of Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). As of June 2024, 1 Bahraini Dinar equals to 221.50 Indian Rupees.

The Bahrain Public Transport Company operates over 20 bus routes across the Kingdom, connecting various governorates with safe and cost-effective transportation. Managed by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, the buses are well-equipped, ensuring high standards of safety and customer service.

Taxis are widely available with several companies offering modern fleets at affordable rates. Drivers use meters to calculate fares, which are displayed transparently. Taxi ranks are conveniently located at airports, shopping malls and tourist spots and taxis can also be booked on demand.

Bahrain recently shifted its weekend to Fridays and Saturdays to align with the global standard, ensuring a shared weekend with the rest of the world.

Bahrain's economy is renowned for its diversity within the Gulf region, with the non-oil sector contributing 83.1% to the total real GDP as of 2022. This achievement underscores the country's concerted efforts in economic diversification, supported by strong collaboration between public and private sectors. Bahrain's favourable regulatory environment and business-friendly policies have effectively attracted foreign investments. Although it was the first in the region to discover oil in 1932, Bahrain is expected to deplete its reserves sooner than others. Consequently, the country has focused on developing a robust economy beyond oil, including sectors like petrochemicals, aluminium refining and manufacturing.

India and Bahrain share a robust and mutually beneficial relationship founded on historical ties and shared values. Diplomatic relations between the two nations have steadily grown, bolstered by vibrant economic cooperation, cultural exchanges and a significant Indian expatriate community contributing to Bahrain's development. Both countries collaborate closely on various fronts, including trade, education, healthcare and defense, fostering a strong bond of friendship and partnership in the Gulf region.

Approximately 350,000 Indian nationals reside in Bahrain, constituting the largest expatriate community in the country out of a total population of 1.2 million.

The history of Indians in Bahrain dates back to the Dilmun civilisation around 3000 BCE, when Bahrain served as a crucial trade link between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley civilisation.

The predominant languages spoken by Indians in Bahrain are Hindi and Arabic.

The substantial presence of over 350,000 Indian nationals in Bahrain is a significant aspect of India's bilateral relations with the country. There is considerable alignment between Bahrain and India on various global issues.

Founded in December 2007, the Bahrain India Society has actively promoted relations between the two nations - visit their website at https://bahindsociety.org/.

Considering employment in a foreign country like Bahrain presents promising opportunities and competitive wages. However, before committing to such a big move, it's crucial to evaluate several key factors to ensure it aligns with your goals and circumstances.

1) Costs Associated with Migration

• Economic Costs: Includes recruitment fees, passport, visa, emigration clearance, insurance and airfare (ideally covered by the employer).

• Social Costs: Leaving behind family members such as elderly parents, spouse and children.

• Health Costs: Potential physical and mental discomfort due to separation from loved ones.
  

2) Benefits of Migration

• EconomicBenefits: Higher wages and favourable currency exchange rates.

• Social Benefits: Exposure to a new culture, cuisine and diverse perspectives.

• Upskilling: Opportunity to acquire skills and technological expertise.

• Personal Growth: Lifelong professional development and enriching experiences.
  

3) Financial Considerations

Now that you have compared the costs and benefits of migration, it's important to consider other financial aspects of moving to Bahrain. Here are some key considerations:

• Debt: Debt should be the last resort for funding migration. Ensure you can repay any borrowed money without hindering your goals. Accumulated debt can derail even the best-laid plans.

• Currency and Exchange Rates: Each country has its own currency with varying exchange rates. Familiarise yourself with these rates to always be on the safer side when it comes to financial planning.

• Cost of Living: Living in Bahrain is more expensive than in India. Even if accommodation and transport are provided by your employer, research costs such as food, travel and entertainment. Budget for both essential and non-essential expenses and include a buffer for unexpected events.

• Insurance: Before migrating, ensure you have adequate insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances, as accessing public or private services may be costly. Understand the types of insurance you may need and how to make claims.

4) Managing Money

Financial literacy is crucial for living comfortably in Bahrain and achieving your goals. Key aspects include:

• Budgeting: Plan a monthly budget to manage expenses effectively and stick to your spending plan.

• Saving: Prioritise saving by setting aside money from your salary for future expenses.

• Investing: Consider options such as fixed deposits, recurring deposits, mutual funds and shares to grow your savings.

• Emergency Fund: Build an emergency fund before migrating to cover unexpected expenses. Aim to save at least three months' worth of living expenses.
  

Educating yourself about financial matters before migration empowers you to make informed decisions and maximise your employment opportunity in Bahrain.

Entry into Bahrain for employment, tourism, social visits or business requires sponsorship by an individual, business, organisation or diplomatic mission. Employment visas are facilitated by sponsors who arrange residence permits and insurance for employees within 30 days of arrival.

1. Eligibility for Employment in Bahrain

To work in Bahrain, individuals must be aged 18-60, physically fit and meet educational and professional criteria specified by Bahraini authorities or fill specific worker categories. A valid passport with at least six months' validity is required and employment must be secured through a formal contract with an employer.

2. Finding Work Opportunities in Bahrain

Indian workers seeking employment opportunities in Bahrain can explore job openings through National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDCI). To view the latest jobs available, use the following link - NSDCI Job Opportunities.

3. Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs)

Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs) act as intermediaries between potential workers and employers in Bahrain. They assist workers in finding suitable jobs, obtaining necessary travel/employment documents and understanding the terms of employment contracts.

In summary, IRAs are persons or companies registered with the PGE for recruiting Indian citizens for employment abroad.

To avoid fraudulent practices, ensure that you only engage with legitimate and licensed recruitment agencies. A list of all registered IRAs is available at Registered IRAs and a list of unregistered/illegal IRAs whose services should not be used can be found here. It is advisable to contact the office of PGE/PoE or visit emigrate.gov.in for clarification regarding the status of an IRA. It is also recommended that you insist upon verifying the legitimacy of the agency.

It is essential to avoid engaging with sub-agents, as they are not authorised to act as IRAs in accordance with the provisions of the Emigration Act, 1983 and its corresponding rules.

4. Identifying Licensed Indian Recruitment Agencies

To prevent fraudulent practices, it is crucial to differentiate between licensed and unlicensed recruitment agencies. The following points can help in making this distinction:

• Registered agents will prominently display their Registration Certificate (RC), issued by the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE), in their office premises. Additionally, a noticeable signboard in front of the business premises should display the Recruiting Agent’s name, registration number and year of registration. Ensure that the RC is valid and not expired.

• If the recruiting agent is authorised to operate from additional premises, an attested copy of the registration certificate endorsed by the registering authority will be displayed prominently at such branch offices.

• A registered RA will have office premises of at least 50 square metres with necessary amenities, including a waiting hall, interview room, internet facility and other office amenities. Unregistered RAs may operate from inadequate or questionable office premises lacking essential amenities.

• They will have arrangements for skill testing for trades for which they recruit intending emigrants.

• Charges that the recruiting agent may recover for their services shall not exceed the equivalent of wages for 45 days as per the employment contract, subject to a maximum of Rs. 30,000.
  

5. Responsibilities of Indian Recruiting Agencies

Recruitment agencies shall:

• Provide you with employment details, including contract conditions, before recruitment.

• Ensure your proper reception by the employer in Bahrain.

• Ensure that the employer does not alter the terms of the employment contract after recruitment.

• Ensure timely action by the employer for renewal of documents authorising your stay in Bahrain.

• Facilitate amicable settlement of disputes between you and the employer.

• Issue receipts for payments made by you.

• Publish only genuine and factually correct advertisements, refraining from inducement or misrepresentation. You should request the IRA to show the Demand Letter and Power of Attorney from the employer and verify the employer's credentials through a known contact or the Indian Embassy/Consulate in Bahrain. You can also refer to the eMigrate portal to ensure that the employer is not listed in the Prior Approval Category (PAC) List, which includes foreign employers barred from recruiting from India for violating provisions of the Emigration Act. The PAC list is available at PAC List.

• Ensure that the employer adheres to the terms and conditions of the employment contract.

For more information on IRAs, you can refer to the link provided: MEA - Recruiting Agents.

6. Complaint Against IRAs

There are instances where you may be taken undue advantage of, in such a case, consider filing a complaint. Complaints of overcharging or cheating against RA can be lodged with:

To find FAQs related to complaints against Recruitment Agents (RA), you can visit the Ministry of External Affairs’ website at https://mea.gov.in/complaints-against-recruiting-agents.html

Indian nationals wishing to work in Bahrain require a Work Visa or Work Permit, with the application typically managed by the employer. The process involves the following steps:

1. Employer Application: The employer applies for a work permit with the Ministry of Labour Services Department.

2. Visa Authorization: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs thereafter issues a Visa Authorization Number.

3. Visa Application: The applicant can then apply for a work visa at the Bahrain Embassy in India.

4. Residency Permit: The employer must apply for the employee's residency permit within 90 days of their arrival in Bahrain.

The Work Visa allows Indian expatriates to work in Bahrain for a specific period and also enables them to bring their families on a Family Visit Visa.

Eligibility for Bahrain Work Visa

To be eligible for a Bahrain Work Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Valid Passport: You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.

• Sponsorship: You must be sponsored by a Bahrain company or organisation.

• Invitation Letter: You must have an invitation letter from the Bahrain organisation, attested by the Ministry of Labour Services Department in Bahrain.

• Purpose: Your visit must be for work activities in technical professions such as engineering, architecture, etc.

Regulatory Visa Framework for Indian Skilled Workforce

The law governing immigration in Bahrain is the Aliens (Immigration and Residence) Act, 1965 (“Bahrain Aliens Act”). As per Section 5 of the Act, a foreigner must hold a valid passport or a satisfactory travel document with a valid entry visa to Bahrain, except with the permission of the immigration director.

Employers are required to arrange and process the necessary documents with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority prior to the arrival of their employees and dependents.

Employers must apply for visa renewal before its expiry.

Steps for Processing the Work Visa

1. Gather the required supporting documents.

2. Employer applies for the Work Permit.

3. Payment of Work Visa application fees.

4. Receipt of Bahrain Work Visa.

Additional information on Bahraini visas can be accessed from the following sources:

• Bahrain’s Official Portal for e-Visas

• Bahrain’s Official Portal for Labour Market Regulatory Authority

The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, has rolled out several services to assist individuals planning to work in Bahrain. These services include:

1) e-Migrate

Visit the e-Migrate website (https://emigrate.gov.in/) for assistance with issues related to living and working in Bahrain. The e-Migrate website provides assistance in the following areas, among others:

• Online capturing of important data of the emigrant.

• Verification of credentials of Foreign Employers (FE) and Registered Recruitment Agencies (IRA).

• Online generation of employment contracts.

• Insurance of emigrants through Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana up to ₹10 Lakh.

2) Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK)

• PBSK is a facilitation centre that provides support services to individuals wishing to go abroad for employment purposes.

• PBSK provides or receives information and registers complaints on behalf of emigrants, channeling them to the relevant MEA officials (PGE/ POEs or Indian Embassies/ Consulates abroad) for action.

• PBSK includes 5 Kshetriya Pravasi Sahayata Kendras (KPSKs), formerly known as Migrant Resource Centres (MRCs), located in Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi. These centres operate in coordination with Protectors of Emigrants (PoEs) in these cities to assist emigrants who require face-to-face interaction for the resolution of grievances and queries.

• The KPBSK operates a 24x7 helpline (1800113090) providing need-based information to emigrants and their families through a toll-free number.

3) Protector General of Emigrants (PGE)

• The Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) in the Ministry of External Affairs is responsible for protecting the interests of Indian workers proceeding abroad for employment purposes.

• Protectors of Emigrants (PoE) are responsible for granting emigration clearance to intending emigrants as per the procedure prescribed under the Emigration Act, 1983.

• The PGE is responsible for inspecting any conveyance that emigrants are departing on to or arriving from a place outside India.

• The PGE also enquires into the treatment received by emigrants during their journey to the destination country, during their residence there and during the return journey to India.

• The PGE aids and advises emigrants who have returned to India as far as reasonably possible.

4) Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY)

Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY) is a skill development initiative to help youth undertake industry-relevant skill training. Currently, the NSDC has set up Skill India International Centres (SIIC) in various parts of the country.

• Key Sectors: Domestic Workers, Retail, Tourism & Hospitality, Capital Goods, Healthcare, Construction, Automotive and Security.

5) Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY)

Before applying for Emigration Clearance (EC) on eMigrate, it is important to take Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY). The PBBY premium is ₹275 for two years of insurance and ₹375 for three years of insurance. The details of the ‘nominee’ should be correctly filled in.

Benefits:

• Death or Disability Cover: ₹10 Lakhs in case of accidental death or permanent disability.

• Repatriation Facilities in Case of Death: The cost of transportation of mortal remains to India.

• Air Fare for Attendant: Economy class return airfare to the nearest international airport in India.

• Repatriation Expenses: Actual one-way economy class airfare to the nearest international airport in India.

• Medical cover: Medical cover in case of hospitalisation of the insured worker up to ₹1,00,000 (₹50,000 per hospitalisation with a maximum of two).

• Hospitalisation Cover: Hospitalisation cover for the family in the event of death or permanent disability of the insured person up to ₹50,000.

• Maternity Expenses: ₹35,000 for normal delivery and ₹50,000 for caesarean operation.

• Legal Expenses: Up to ₹45,000.
  

List of Authorised Insurance Companies Where You Can Buy PBBY Insurance:

6) Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF)

ICWF aims to provide the following services to emigrant workers:

• Boarding and lodging for distressed overseas Indian workers in household/domestic sectors and unskilled labourers.

• Extending emergency medical care to overseas Indians in need.

• Providing assistance to distressed NRI women.

• Providing air passage to stranded overseas Indians in need.

• Providing initial legal assistance to overseas Indians in deserving cases.

• Paying small fines/penalties in deserving cases.

• Extending help in case of accidents and for airlifting the mortal remains to India or local cremation/burial of deceased overseas Indians where the sponsor is unable or unwilling to do so as per the contract and the family is not in a position to meet the cost.

The kafala system, used in GCC countries, Jordan and Lebanon, ties foreign workers to their local sponsors, typically their employers. However, Bahrain has taken notable steps towards reforming this system.

In 2009, Bahrain became the first GCC country to claim it had repealed the kafala system. The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) was established to replace employers as foreign workers' sponsors and a new flexible work permit was introduced. This permit allows around 10,000 migrants, who overstayed their visas due to employer abuse, to act as their own sponsors and seek temporary jobs for up to two years. The permit, which costs $80 USD monthly plus a one-time fee of $530 USD, is an initiative designed to grant greater autonomy to migrant workers.

The 2009 Mobility Law further allowed migrant workers to switch employers without their sponsors' permission, provided they adhered to a notice period. Although some restrictions remain, such as a one-year job lock under Law No. 15 of 2011 and exclusions for sectors requiring professional licenses, these reforms signify a positive shift towards dismantling exploitative practices and enhancing worker rights.

While there is still progress to be made, Bahrain's ongoing reforms demonstrate a commitment to improving conditions for migrant workers and providing greater freedom and protection.

Indian expatriates residing and working in Bahrain may encounter several challenges, including:

• Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture and way of life can prove challenging. Differences in customs, language and social norms may require time and effort to navigate, such as establishing social networks and friendships beyond the expatriate community.

• Lack of Familiar Foods and Products: Locating specific Indian foods or products can be difficult, necessitating adjustment to a different cuisine. Additionally, finding vegetarian food or suitable restaurants can often be daunting.

• Language Barrier: While many Bahrainis speak English fluently, not knowing Arabic can still pose communication challenges, particularly in daily interactions and certain job sectors.

• Weather and Climate: Bahrain features a desert climate, with the southwestern region exhibiting a semi-arid climate. Summers in the central areas are extremely hot and dry, ranging from 26°C to 45°C inland and 24°C to 37°C along the coast.

• Cost of Living: The average cost of living in Bahrain is 145% higher than in India. Bahrain ranks 69th among the most expensive countries globally, contrasting with India's 189th position.

• Work-Life Balance: Bahrain offers opportunities to spend quality time with family or pursue personal interests, making it an attractive place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.

• Loneliness and Homesickness: Being far from family and home country can lead to feelings of loneliness and homesickness, particularly during holidays or significant events.

• Despite these challenges, many Indian migrants have successfully settled in Bahrain and found ways to overcome them. Support networks, cultural awareness and a willingness to learn and adapt can facilitate the transition and enrich the overall experience.

• When offered refreshments, it's polite to accept. Remember to use your right hand for drinking and eating, as the left hand is considered unclean due to its use in personal hygiene.

• Avoid showing the soles of your shoes or feet as this can be seen as disrespectful. Keep your feet flat on the ground and avoid crossing your legs.

• If invited to an Arab's home, it's polite to accept. Your Arab host will be keen to learn about you and your perspectives, though it's best to avoid discussions on politics and religion, which can be sensitive topics.

• Upon entering the majlis (reception room), remove your footwear unless instructed otherwise by your host. If accompanied by a female companion, she may join the women's gathering. Expect to be offered refreshments, which you should accept as a gesture of hospitality.

• Arabs value politeness and expect respectful behaviour. Sharing a meal is seen as enhancing relationships. Learning basic Arabic greetings and pleasantries can greatly enrich your interactions and is appreciated by locals.

• While admiring possessions is natural, be mindful that expressing admiration might traditionally prompt an offer to gift the item, which could lead to awkwardness. It's also customary to reciprocate with a gift of greater value if you accept.

Best Practices to Follow:

• Avoid offering alcoholic drinks unless you're sure your host drinks alcohol, as this can cause offence.

• Respect prayer customs; avoid walking on prayer mats or disrupting prayers.

• Always seek permission before entering a mosque and respect areas marked as off-limits to non-Muslims.

• During Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours and avoid noisy or public displays of affection.

• Avoid behaviours that may cause embarrassment or loss of face for your Arab hosts, such as beckoning with a finger or displaying aggression or drunkenness.

A basic understanding of Arabic can enhance communication and help you integrate into society and workplaces more smoothly.

Labour laws in Bahrain govern the relationship between employers and employees. Workers are entitled to certain rights guaranteed by these laws. All expatriate workers in general categories (employed in companies/establishments) are covered by these provisions.

However, domestic service workers (such as housemaids, house drivers, gardeners, etc.), agricultural workers in firms with fewer than 10 employees, crew members on ships under 500 tonnes and workers on short-term work visas are not covered by these laws.

It's important to be aware of your rights to ensure your well-being, safety and fair treatment in your Bahrain. Here are some key rights you should know:

• You have the right to retain your original documents, including passport, visa and employment contract.

• Your working hours are regulated and you have the right to receive overtime compensation.

• You have the right to lodge complaints and seek protection if any of your rights are violated or if you have been exploited by your employer. If you believe you have been treated unfairly or discriminated against, you should seek assistance.

• You have the right to refuse overtime work.

• You are entitled to at least 30 minutes of rest after no more than five consecutive hours of work.

• You have the right to annual leave. After completing one year of service with your employer, you are entitled to 21 days of paid leave in advance. This entitlement increases to 30 days after five years of service.

• You are entitled to one day off each week.

• You have the right to public holidays.

• You have the right to take sick leave.

• You are entitled to receive your wages during periods of illness.

• You have the right to leave your workplace during your free time.

• You have the right to be paid for completed work, even in cases of arrest, resignation or termination.

It's important to note that the Bahrain Labour Code does not allow workers to form unions, engage in collective bargaining or go on strike. Attempts to form a union can result in dismissal, imprisonment or deportation for migrant workers.

A written employment contract signed by the employer and an expatriate employee is mandatory under Bahraini Labour Law, specifying a fixed duration. The law protects all types of employees—part-time, full-time, local or expatriate—who receive wages from an employer and work under their supervision.

The contract must be in Arabic, but if in another language alongside Arabic, the Arabic text prevails in case of disputes.

Key provisions in the contract include details such as the employer and employee's names and addresses, job title, work location, contract duration, probation period, agreed wage, provision of free food or food allowance, accommodation details, working hours, overtime compensation, vacation entitlements, airfare, medical insurance, end-of-service benefits, provisions for repatriation of mortal remains to India in case of death, dispute resolution procedures, etc.

According to Bahraini Labour Law, a fixed-term contract ends upon its expiry and the employer must repatriate the worker. The employer cannot enforce such an agreement if termination or rejection of renewal occurs without justified cause from the employee.

Continuation of work under the same terms after expiry implies automatic renewal for an indefinite period. For non-Bahraini contracts without a specific duration, the contract's duration matches the work permit.

If a fixed-term contract includes a renewal clause for a similar or specified term, it must be renewed as agreed. Either party can terminate the contract by giving thirty days' notice, with the contract remaining effective during this period and both parties bound by its obligations. The employer may agree to a longer notice period upon termination.

Termination of the contract can occur without notice during probation, upon failure of medical examination, by mutual consent, upon expiry of the contract term (unless extended), at the discretion of both parties in indefinite contracts or upon reaching retirement age (60 years for males, 55 for females), unless both parties agree to continue beyond retirement age.

The employer can dismiss the worker without notice for various reasons including assault on management, failure to perform duties, disobedience, misconduct, causing financial loss, forgery to obtain employment, extended unauthorised absence, misuse of position or disclosure of confidential information.

The worker can terminate the contract without notice if the employer fails to fulfil contractual obligations, engages in fraud during contracting, assigns work different from what was agreed upon without consent, commits violent or immoral acts, subjects the worker to cruelty or injustice, fails to address serious workplace hazards or violates contract terms.

Termination without valid reason entitles the harmed party to compensation from the other party.

Employers are required to provide health insurance for their expatriate workers, enabling them to access necessary medical treatment. Upon arrival, expatriate workers must undergo a medical test at approved medical centres to obtain the required medical insurance, which is a prerequisite for obtaining their Permit.

As a migrant worker in Bahrain, you have several responsibilities:

• Informing Employer about Leaves: Notify your employer in advance if you need to take leave for personal reasons or vacation. Failure to do so could lead to contract termination.

• Sickness and Medical Certificates: If you're unwell and unable to work, inform your employer promptly and obtain a medical certificate.

• Health Precautions: If you work outdoors, avoid sudden changes in temperature such as turning up the air conditioning too high immediately after returning indoors as this can lead to health issues like cardiac arrest.

• Health Awareness: Take precautions to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

• Respect for Culture: Respect Bahrain's cultural norms, food customs and dress modestly.

• Behaviour Towards Women: Treat women with respect; avoid teasing, ogling or staring at them.

• Legal and Ethical Conduct: Never engage in drug selling or abuse or any criminal activity. Avoid physical abuse or bullying based on ethnic, cultural, physical, religious or sectarian differences.

• Knowledge of Laws: Familiarise yourself with Bahraini laws, including traffic rules. Always use designated crossings like zebra crossings or overhead bridges.

• Workplace Regulations: Adhere to the rules and regulations of your workplace, displayed in a visible area.

• Document Renewal: Regularly check the expiry dates of your passport, residence permit and ID card. Renew your passport at the Pakistan Embassy and inform your employer in advance about other document renewals.

• Seeking Help: If you encounter problems at work, seek assistance from family, friends, your employer, the Embassy or Consulate of Bahrain, your recruitment agent or the Protector Office of India.

• Respect for Local Laws: Understand and comply with Bahraini laws, including immigration requirements and local ordinances. Ensure your visa and residence permits are always valid and follow their conditions.

• Cultural Integration: Learn about Bahraini culture, customs and social norms. Consider taking Arabic language courses to aid communication and integration.

• Community Involvement: Engage in local events, clubs and activities to meet people and integrate into Bahraini society. Respect diversity and build friendships across different backgrounds.

• Staying Informed: Stay updated on local news, events and regulatory changes that may impact your daily life. Be aware of local safety guidelines and emergency procedures and secure your personal belongings and documents.

• Waste Management: Ensure proper waste disposal by rinsing containers and sorting waste into designated recycling bins as required by local regulations.

• Tax Responsibilities: Understand the Bahraini tax system and fulfil your tax obligations promptly. Obtain a tax card from the tax authorities upon starting work in Bahrain, as failure to declare earnings can lead to legal penalties.