Limited vs Unlimited Contracts (Bahrain) (2026 Legal Guide) — Rules & Requirements
About this article
Sourced from Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Bahrain's Labour Law (36/2012) recognises limited (max 5 years per Article 22) and unlimited contracts. Article 99 sets the standard 30-day notice for unlimited contracts. The LMRA's Flexi Permit programme adds a third category — direct sponsorship-free employment for certain skilled categories.
When does it apply?
- Under Bahrain Labour Law 36/2012.
What should you do?
- Verify contract type via your LMRA-registered work permit.
- For early termination, the contract's notice clause controls; statutory floor 30 days.
- End-of-service gratuity calculated identically for both contract types via Article 116.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume Flexi Permit holders forfeit Article 116 gratuity — the Flexi Permit is a work-authorisation category, not a contract type.
About Workers' Rights in Bahrain
Your job in Bahrain is governed by Law No. 36 of 2012 (Labour Law), with work permits managed independently of employers by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) — you can switch jobs without sponsor consent. Standard hours are 8 a day, 48 a week, dropping to 6 during Ramadan; overtime pays 125% (150% nights/holidays). After one year you get 30 days' annual leave. Bahrain is the only Gulf state with unemployment insurance via the SIO. A summer outdoor work ban runs midday in July-August. Disputes go through Ministry of Labour conciliation before the courts.
Common Questions
What is the limited vs unlimited contracts (bahrain) right in Bahrain?
Bahrain's Labour Law (36/2012) recognises limited (max 5 years per Article 22) and unlimited contracts. Article 99 sets the standard 30-day notice for unlimited contracts. The LMRA's Flexi Permit programme adds a third category — direct sponsorship-free employment for certain skilled categories.
When does it apply — limited vs unlimited contracts (bahrain)?
Under Bahrain Labour Law 36/2012.
What should you do — limited vs unlimited contracts (bahrain)?
Verify contract type via your LMRA-registered work permit.For early termination, the contract's notice clause controls; statutory floor 30 days.End-of-service gratuity calculated identically for both contract types via Article 116.
What should you NOT do — limited vs unlimited contracts (bahrain)?
Don't assume Flexi Permit holders forfeit Article 116 gratuity — the Flexi Permit is a work-authorisation category, not a contract type.