Waqf Reforms Intensify Across Properties

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Spaces tied to daily worship, remembrance, and community life are now central to ongoing reform as the Jaafari Endowments Directorate works to address audit observations while safeguarding the purpose of waqf properties across Bahrain.

In its response to the National Audit Office, the Directorate confirmed that it continuously updates the classification of endowment properties, in coordination with all relevant authorities.

It stressed that many of these assets are sensitive, requiring careful and measured handling to preserve both their value and their role within society.

The Directorate outlined plans to regularise employees working under temporary contracts, noting that previous observations stemmed from the absence of vacancies within the former administrative structure.

A restructuring process is now underway to enable proper implementation, although limited financial allocations for hiring mean progress will take time, alongside ongoing coordination with the Civil Service Bureau.

Officials confirmed that a database exists for workers in mosques and cemeteries, though it remains in need of further updates.

Work is currently ongoing to improve its accuracy, supporting better organisation and service delivery.

Addressing concerns over long term lease agreements, the Directorate explained that such contracts often relate to vacant land, where short term arrangements are not viable for investors.

It added that a specialised firm has been engaged to handle bank reconciliation work, with plans to train internal staff to take over once the contract period concludes.

Beyond systems and procedures, these reforms reach into spaces that people rely on in quiet, personal moments.

As efforts continue, the focus remains on strengthening oversight while ensuring that endowment assets continue to serve communities with stability, care, and trust.