Bahrain Government Entities to Operate with 50% Office Presence from April 5

The Civil Service Bureau has announced an update to its remote work policy, introducing revised attendance arrangements across all government entities. Under the new directive, in-office attendance will be limited to no more than 50% of the workforce, effective Sunday, April 5, 2026, and continuing until further notice.

The updated policy allows flexibility for government departments to manage their operations while ensuring continuity of services. However, exemptions will apply to sectors whose nature of work requires full physical presence, in line with public interest requirements. Each government entity will be responsible for identifying the roles and employees covered under the new arrangement, based on operational needs.

The Civil Service Bureau has also emphasized the importance of coordination between government entities to determine suitable attendance levels or the necessity of returning to the workplace, depending on job functions. This approach aims to maintain efficiency while adapting to varying administrative and operational demands.

In addition, the directive highlights the need to strengthen emergency preparedness across all government workplaces. Entities are instructed to strictly follow guidelines issued by relevant authorities regarding alarm systems, safety procedures, evacuation plans, and precautionary measures within work premises, in coordination with the General Directorate of Civil Defense.

Each government body will also establish a dedicated team to coordinate with relevant authorities when needed, alongside implementing awareness and training programs to enhance employees’ readiness in handling emergencies. Regular weekly reports will be submitted to the Civil Service Bureau to monitor compliance levels and assess overall preparedness and adherence to safety standards.