The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain has reported that more than 296,000 work permits were issued or renewed in the country during the first half of 2024. Construction leads in new permits at 23%, with a total of 217,275 renewals and 79,372 new permits granted during this period. The active work permits for expatriates rose to 1.26 million, showing an increase from 626,528 in the first quarter to 631,763 in the second quarter.
The construction sector accounted for the largest share of new permits, followed by trade at 20%, accommodation and food services at 14%, and industry at 10%. The remaining 33% of new permits in the second quarter were spread across other sectors. Additionally, permits for domestic workers also saw an increase, with a 12.6% rise in new permits and a 7.4% increase in renewals during the second quarter of 2024.
The first quarter saw 45,632 new permits granted, while the second quarter saw 33,740 new permits. The total number of permits issued or renewed in the first half of the year amounted to 296,647. Of these, 217,275 were renewals, with around 118,000 processed in the first quarter and approximately 99,000 in the second quarter. The remaining 79,372 new permits were spread across various sectors.
The increase in work permits in Bahrain reflects the country’s growing economy and increasing demand for foreign workers in various sectors. The construction sector, in particular, has seen a significant influx of new permits, indicating ongoing development and construction projects in the country. With trade, accommodation, food services, and industry also showing growth in work permits, it highlights the diverse nature of the job market in Bahrain.
The rise in permits for domestic workers also signals a demand for household help in Bahrain, with both new permits and renewals seeing an increase. This could be attributed to families and individuals seeking assistance with domestic chores and childcare, leading to the need for more domestic workers in the country. Overall, the statistics from the LMRA report for the first two quarters of 2024 showcase a positive trend in the issuance and renewal of work permits, indicating a thriving job market in Bahrain.
In conclusion, Bahrain’s labor market continues to attract foreign workers, with a significant number of work permits issued or renewed in the first half of 2024. The construction sector leads in new permits, followed by trade, accommodation, food services, and industry. The increase in permits for domestic workers also reflects a demand for household help in the country. Overall, the data from the LMRA report highlights a vibrant and diverse job market in Bahrain, indicating economic growth and development in various sectors.
