LMRA and Bahrain Chamber Review Labour Market Updates

As part of ongoing cooperation between the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) and the Bahrain Chamber, a joint meeting was held to review the latest regulatory developments concerning the use of foreign workers. The meeting reviewed Decision No. (2) of 2026, amending certain provisions of Decision No. (76) of 2008, and highlighted the flexibility it provides employers in managing workforce needs within applicable legal requirements.

The meeting also introduced the enhanced Self-Assessment Tool, which enables employers to assess compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and address potential gaps proactively. Participants also discussed the decision’s implementation and exchanged views on private sector needs and labour market challenges.

LMRA Chief Executive Officer Nibras Talib said the Authority is committed to developing labour market regulations and tools that support sustainable economic activity and an efficient working environment. He explained that the Self-Assessment Tool helps employers assess compliance and address potential gaps.

Talib also highlighted the flexibility introduced under the decision, allowing employers to use an authorised foreign worker at another establishment they own or within the same group, subject to the approved professions and applicable requirements. The decision also allows a foreign worker to work for another employer for up to three months, subject to specified conditions. He noted that these measures enable businesses to make more efficient use of their existing workforce and said LMRA’s cooperation with Bahrain Chamber supports engagement with the business community and consideration of employers’ needs in developing regulatory tools and services.

First Vice Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber Yousif Salahuddin welcomed the decision, noting that it provides businesses with greater options for managing human resources and responding to operational requirements. He said the mechanism can support business continuity, efficiency and productivity, particularly for companies operating through multiple establishments.

Salahuddin also stressed the importance of continuing to develop labour market legislation while maintaining a balance between employers’ needs and workers’ rights, and commended LMRA’s engagement with the business community.

Director of the Small and Medium Enterprises Support Department at Bahrain Chamber, Isa Murad, highlighted the decision’s relevance to SMEs, noting that its flexibility provides additional options for managing workforce needs and addressing temporary requirements. He said this can help SMEs respond more quickly to changes in demand and operational needs. Murad also stressed the importance of ensuring that business owners understand the decision’s requirements and procedures, affirming Bahrain Chamber’s readiness to cooperate with LMRA in raising awareness of relevant regulatory developments.