The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain has been active in regulating the labour market in the country. In the past year, the Authority has issued 27,972 new permits for domestic workers and renewed 24,646 permits. Additionally, they have approved 23,519 requests from foreign workers to change professions after meeting necessary conditions.
In order to crack down on permit violations, the LMRA issued notifications to employers when foreign workers left their jobs in breach of permit conditions. This accounted for 0.44% of the total expatriate workforce in Bahrain. The Authority also conducted 46,242 inspection visits and found 2,307 cases of legal non-compliance among employers. This shows the Authority’s commitment to enforcing regulations and ensuring the rights of both workers and employers.
The LMRA has also taken part in 20 internal inspection campaigns and various joint campaigns with other government agencies across the Kingdom. These efforts have led to the apprehension of 2,220 foreign workers who were found to be in violation of regulations. In collaboration with relevant bodies, the Authority deported 5,477 foreign workers who were found to be in violation of regulations.
The number of licensed employment agencies in Bahrain reached 109, with 4 being cancelled last year. Currently, there are 97 agencies engaged in supplying foreign labour to Bahrain, including 52 newly licensed in 2023. This shows a steady growth in the number of agencies involved in the recruitment and supply of foreign workers, indicating the popularity of Bahrain as a destination for foreign workers.
Overall, the LMRA’s efforts in regulating the labour market in Bahrain have been instrumental in ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting the rights of both workers and employers. With a focus on enforcement and collaboration with other government agencies, the Authority has been able to crack down on violations and deport foreign workers who are found to be in violation of regulations. The growth in the number of licensed employment agencies also indicates the demand for foreign labour in Bahrain.
