Minimum Wage
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders.
Bahraini National Law
What is this right?
Bahrain does not have a universal minimum wage that covers all workers. However, the government has set sector-specific minimum wages for Bahraini nationals in the private sector.
- Bahraini workers: A minimum wage applies to Bahraini employees in certain private-sector roles, set by ministerial order. The rate has been periodically adjusted.
- Expatriate workers: There is currently no statutory minimum wage for foreign workers. Pay is based on the employment contract.
- Wage Payment: Employers must pay wages in Bahraini Dinars through a bank account registered with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).
- Wage Protection System (WPS): All employers must use the electronic WPS to pay salaries, ensuring timely and traceable payments.
If your employer fails to pay on time or pays less than the agreed amount, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour.
When does it apply?
- You are a Bahraini national working in a private-sector role covered by the minimum wage order.
- You are any worker (Bahraini or expatriate) whose employer has failed to pay the agreed salary on time.
- Your employer is required to use the Wage Protection System for all salary payments.
What should you do?
- Check your contract — your agreed salary should be clearly stated in writing.
- If Bahraini, verify that your pay meets the current minimum wage set by ministerial order.
- Keep bank statements and pay slips as proof of payments received.
- If underpaid or unpaid, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour or call the labour hotline.
- You can also approach the LMRA if your employer is not using the Wage Protection System.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not accept cash payments off the books — insist on bank transfers through the WPS for your protection.
- Do not sign blank documents — some employers ask workers to sign receipts for amounts not actually paid.
- Do not delay filing a complaint — wage claims have time limits, so act promptly if you are underpaid.
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