Navigating labor laws is essential for businesses operating internationally. In Bahrain, regulations governing working hours, overtime, and rest periods are designed to protect employee welfare and ensure fair labor practices. Employers must adhere strictly to these rules to maintain compliance and foster a productive work environment. Understanding the nuances of the Labour Law in the Private Sector is key to managing a workforce effectively and avoiding potential legal issues.
These regulations cover various aspects of the employment relationship, from the maximum number of hours an employee can work daily and weekly to the compensation required for work performed beyond standard hours. Specific provisions also address rest breaks, weekly days off, and the particular conditions applicable to night work and work performed on official holidays. Compliance requires diligent record-keeping and a clear understanding of employee entitlements.
Standard Working Hours and Workweek
The standard working hours for employees in Bahrain are set by law. Generally, an employee should not work more than 8 hours per day. This daily limit is typically averaged over a week, resulting in a standard workweek of 48 hours. However, during the holy month of Ramadan, working hours are reduced for Muslim employees to a maximum of 6 hours per day, or 36 hours per week. The standard workweek in Bahrain is typically from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the usual weekend, although some companies may operate on a different schedule.
Overtime Regulations and Compensation
Work performed beyond the standard daily or weekly hours is considered overtime. The law specifies limits on the amount of overtime an employee can work and mandates specific compensation rates. An employee's total working hours, including overtime, should generally not exceed 12 hours per day. Overtime compensation rates vary depending on when the overtime is performed.
| Time of Overtime Work | Minimum Compensation Rate (of basic wage) |
|---|---|
| Normal working days | 125% |
| Rest days (e.g., Friday) | 150% |
| Official holidays | 200% |
In addition to the percentage of the basic wage, employees working overtime during rest days or official holidays are also entitled to a compensatory rest day.
Rest Periods and Breaks
Employees are entitled to mandatory rest periods during the workday and a weekly rest day. For employees working continuously for more than 6 hours, a break of at least half an hour is required. This break is typically unpaid and is not included in the calculation of working hours. Every employee is also entitled to a full weekly rest day, which should not be less than 24 consecutive hours. This rest day is usually Friday, but it can be another day as agreed upon between the employer and employee, provided it is specified in the employment contract or internal regulations.
Night Shift and Weekend Work
Specific regulations apply to employees working night shifts or on weekends. Night work is generally defined as work performed between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. While night work is permitted, there are restrictions, particularly for women and young persons, although exceptions may apply in certain industries or roles. As mentioned, work performed on the designated weekly rest day (typically Friday) or official holidays is subject to higher overtime compensation rates and the provision of a compensatory rest day.
Working Time Recording
Employers in Bahrain are legally obligated to maintain accurate records of their employees' working hours. These records should clearly show the standard hours worked, any overtime hours, and the compensation paid for overtime. Proper record-keeping is crucial for demonstrating compliance with the Labour Law during inspections and in the event of disputes. These records must be kept readily available for review by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development. Implementing a reliable system for tracking attendance and working hours is a fundamental requirement for all employers.
