Extend Hours – Online Ain’t Enough : MPs Push for Extended Ministry Hours to Reduce Queues

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

• Civil Service Bureau warns longer hours could strain resources and slow digital transition.
• Proposal to be debated in Parliament as MPs argue it will improve access and create jobs.

Despite moving some services online, people are still struggling to get paperwork done.

This should end, say MPs, who now want to extend the working hours of service ministries.

The proposal has gained the attention of the Civil Service Bureau (CSB), which warned that it would strain government resources and increase costs.

However, MPs are determined to push ahead with the plan in their next sitting.

They argue that extending working hours into the evening would ease queues and allow more people to complete paperwork outside regular office hours.

MP Jalal Kadhem, who put forward the idea, said it is now difficult for many—particularly those who work during the day or need urgent approvals.

“No one should have to choose between keeping their job and sorting out essential paperwork," he said. "Giving people the chance to visit in the evening would make a real difference.”

While some services have moved online, not all transactions can be handled digitally. Many people—particularly the elderly—struggle with electronic systems. Others are forced to take time off work to attend in person, only to face crowded offices and long waiting times.

The CSB noted that current rules already allow government departments to request changes to their operating hours when needed. It also warned that longer opening times might slow efforts to expand online services, which remain a key priority for authorities.

Kadhem dismissed concerns that the move would undermine digital services, arguing that not everything can be handled remotely.

“A pensioner needing to sign urgent paperwork shouldn’t be left struggling because offices shut too early,” he said. “A worker finishing in the afternoon shouldn’t have to take leave just to process a document.”

He also pointed out that extending office hours would create more jobs for Bahrainis.

“The government wants to put more Bahrainis to work, and this is a simple, practical way to do that,” he said.

Kadhem argued that the current system leaves too many gaps.

“Some ministries already run evening shifts, which shows there’s demand. But people need to know that wherever they go, they can get things done at a time that suits them.”

Parliament will decide on the proposal this Tuesday.