It is obvious that the capital of Bahrain has come a long way in terms of growth and development, onboarding job seekers from all parts of the world. This vibrant capital, Manama, aims to be the commercial hub, thus giving the city more jobs in different time zones. Since this city is the one able to attract talent, this article will outline the employment sectors available there, how to approach the recruitment process successfully, how legal issues will be handled, as well as what challenges international employees will encounter while trying to fit into a new country.
Prominent job sectors in Manama
Today, Manama's economy is no longer reliant solely on pearl diving and fishing as it has become more globalized and finance, tourism, manufacturing, and the creative industry have now been incorporated. There are many employment prospects in this part of the world thanks to the easy accessibility of resources and advanced facilities.
Finance
Manama is a city that serves banks and institutions. The city of Manama also refers to Bahrain as a world financial center. The banking sector in Bahrain Financial Harbor hosts other important institutions covering everything from finance to petrol-inclusive activities like Development and Commercial Banks, with major institutions including Al Baraka Banking Group, Gulf International Bank, HSBC, Citibank, and Standard Chartered.
Foreign professionals can further their careers and seek job opportunities in various sectors within the financial industry, like accounting, finance, economics, risk management, and investment compliance, among many others. As recent reports claim, the financial sector employs about 3.2% of the workforce in Bahrain, 28% of whom are expatriates.
Hospitality
The hospitality sector in Manama has also experienced considerable development as the government has increased its focus on tourism. The city contains several luxurious hotels, restaurants, and leisure activities. The Ritz-Carlton, The Four Seasons, and The Intercontinental are some of the best-known.
There are various job opportunities in the hospitality industry, such as bakers, cooks, and hospitality managers. Due to the nature of the industry, there is always an expectation for experience, as well as knowledge of Arabic is always an added advantage.
Retail
Manama's retail scene is vibrant, with centers like City Centre Bahrain and The Avenues offering international brands, dining, and entertainment. The sector is growing rapidly, with a 7% GDP increase in 2023 and a 5.6% rise in e-commerce. It contributes 4% to Bahrain's GDP and employs 23% of the private sector workforce. While exact data on non-Bahraini retail workers is unavailable, expatriates make up a significant share of the workforce, with non-Bahraini employment at 609,028 in Q2 2023.
This growth, driven by tourism, presents opportunities for further expansion. Retail businesses are catering to both expatriates and tourists, boosting demand. There is also potential for foreign investment, particularly in underdeveloped areas, with opportunities to create cultural institutions that enhance Manama's appeal as a retail and tourism hub.
Creative industry
In Manama, the creative industry is new and still in development, including businesses like graphic design, advertising, film, and media. Since Bahrain has shifted its focus to culture and art, the chances for those willing to work in the interesting and constantly changing industry are expanding.
Those engaging in the creative industry may be employed by advertising agencies, media companies, and design studios. With the government supporting the promotion of cultural projects such as annual cultural events and festivals like the Spring of Culture, Bahrain Summer Festival, Bahrain International Music Festival, Muharraq Nights, etc., there will be a great demand for members of the creative sector.
How to find a job in Manama
Searching for a job in Manama can be a challenging task. Still, there are various ways to do so.
Online job portals
Prospective expats can look at several job portals that target the Middle East region. Recruitment websites like GulfTalent, Bayt, and LinkedIn constantly post job advertisements in different fields. Such portals make it easier to seek job openings that meet one's qualifications and experience.
Recruitment agencies
It is reasonable to say that good recruitment agencies may always be helpful too. There are several Manama-based recruitment agencies that focus on a certain field of work and are well-connected to local recruiters. Nevertheless, job seekers ought to proceed with caution when dealing with agencies that require them to pay fees. Charging job applicants fees is not common practice by reputable recruitment agencies; fees are usually incurred by employers and not job seekers. Some of the most reputable headhunting firms in Bahrain are Keypoint, Horton International, Propel Consult, and Keller Executive Search.
International organizations
Bahrain offers a range of employment opportunities for expatriates within international organizations and foreign chambers of commerce. These institutions often seek individuals with diverse skills and global experience to contribute to their missions.
United Nations (UN) Opportunities in Bahrain
The UN maintains a presence in Bahrain, periodically offering positions across various agencies. Roles may encompass areas such as public information, strategic planning, health policy, and economic development. For instance, past vacancies have included positions like Public Information Assistant and Senior Development Coordination Officer. Prospective candidates can explore current openings and application procedures through platforms like UN Talent.
Foreign Chambers of Commerce
Foreign chambers of commerce in Bahrain, such as the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain (FCCIB), play a pivotal role in fostering business relations between Bahrain and other countries. These chambers may offer employment opportunities in areas like business development, event coordination, and member services. For example, the FCCIB regularly updates its job offers, providing potential avenues for expatriates seeking roles that leverage their international expertise.
Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI)
The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) serves as a central hub for business activities in Bahrain, aiming to stimulate private sector growth and economic development. While its primary focus is on local enterprises, the BCCI also engages with international businesses and may have roles suitable for expatriates, particularly those with specialized skills or experience in international trade. Interested individuals can explore career opportunities directly through the BCCI's official website.
Networking
Searching for a job in Manama requires effective networking. Participation in events like industry conferences, job expos, and professional gatherings like Career Expo, INJAZ Career Expo, Manama Health Conference & Expo, IISS Manama Dialogue, and Gulf Industry Fair can facilitate job caliber access and even help find some job positions that are not publicly advertised. For instance, establishing contact with specialists via LinkedIn is useful for getting to know people from the professional sphere.
Company websites
Sometimes a, job seeker could also benefit from eliminating the middleman and applying directly for certain positions rather than using recruitment firms. Some companies prefer it when job seekers apply on their websites in a timely manner. Keeping an eye out for job openings on company websites and applying for them when they are posted not only shows proactivity, which employers may find impressive, but it also saves them fees paid to headhunting and recruitment firms.
Preparing for job interviews in Manama
Job interview preparation is paramount while searching for a job in Manama. Here are the main things to take into account as an expat candidate:
Company background
Try to get interested in this company and its operations even before the interview. Get to learn the company's values, understand its mission, and look up any recent news about the company. By holding onto the prepared information, you will be able to first reach out to the spokes and eventually win the hearts.
Culture
Bahrain's business environment differs from most other countries in that its core principle revolves around building and enhancing existing relationships. Information exchange is the most common starting point during interviews, with the actual work or tasks being the last point of conversation. It is important to understand the behavioral aspects of business.
When going in for an interview, punctuality is one of the first indicators employers pay attention to, so always aim to reach a little ahead of time, factoring in any delays that may occur.
When addressing interviewers, a handshake is not uncommon; however, that can be tricky between opposite genders, out of common courtesy, an applicant can attempt to shake hands with an interviewer from the opposite sex but should not take it to heart if the handshake is not reciprocated as some people can be more conservative, when it comes to this it is very much a judgment call on the part of the applicant.
It is important to appear comfortable and confident but not too confident, Bahraini people are generally quite humble and humility is an attractive trait they would look for in a potential colleague.
Attire
The norms of business wear in Manama seem to be more formal than elsewhere. A suit is recommended for men, while women may wear a formal dress or business suit. To avoid being perceived as inappropriate by interviewers and the company, present yourself in a decent manner.
Expect questions to be asked
It is better to prepare answers to some common interview questions and practice them. Some common questions pertain to your education, past experience, skill set and work ethic, and your career goals and outlook. Make sure to answer questions honestly and provide relevant experiences that are best suited to the job. Moreover, think about how you would respond to questions posed by the interviewer regarding the position and organization, indicating your interest. Do not hesitate to ask questions, but make sure they are necessary and not too many so as not to bore the interviewer, like clarifying the nature of the role and the expectations. When it comes to asking about the remuneration offered, it is best to avoid it or to push it towards the end of the interview to avoid coming off as too eager.
Follow-up
It is also advisable to write a follow-up email after the interview phase. Thanking those who interviewed you is an effective way of reiterating your desire for the position. Additionally, such actions are courteous in nature.
Working in Manama: Procedures and legal issues
For expatriates seeking employment in Manama, it is essential to understand and comply with the country's labor laws. Key legal considerations include:
Employment agreements
Job descriptions and any associated standards must be clearly outlined. Additionally, all aspects of the job—such as basic wages, terms, and benefits—should be documented in detail. Before signing an employment contract, carefully review all terms to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
Work permits
A work permit is a key requirement for foreign nationals wishing to work in Bahrain. To work in Manama, expatriates must obtain both a work visa and a work permit, usually arranged by their employer. The employer begins the process by applying to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) on behalf of the employee. This application includes documents such as a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photo, an employment contract, and a medical examination report. Once the LMRA approves the application, the employee receives a work permit, allowing them to work legally in Bahrain, while a work visa is issued for entry into the country. Employers and employees must ensure compliance with LMRA regulations throughout the process.
Employee rights
It is necessary for you to know your basic rights as an employee in Bahrain. Several labor laws have been put in place for the protection of workers, such as the right to annual and sick leaves and provisions for termination.
Expatriate workers in Bahrain are entitled to several key rights to protect their well-being:
- Right to fair treatment: Laws in Bahrain prohibit workplace discrimination, ensuring all workers are treated equally, regardless of nationality.
- Safe working conditions: Employers must provide a safe and healthy work environment. Regulations, such as prohibiting outdoor work during peak summer heat, help prevent heat-related illnesses.
- Freedom of movement: Expatriate workers have the right to move freely. Employers are prohibited from confiscating workers' passports or restricting their mobility.
- Timely payment of wages: Bahrain requires employers to pay salaries through bank accounts to ensure timely and full payments.
- Access to legal recourse: Workers can file complaints against employers for labor law violations, with mechanisms in place to address grievances and protect workers from retaliation.
Part-time and freelance opportunities in Manama
Part-time and freelance work opportunities in Manama have grown significantly, driven by the rise of the gig economy. Popular freelance roles include graphic design, editing, writing, marketing, and IT. These jobs are often sourced through platforms like Upwork and Freelancer, catering to both local and remote markets.
Part-time positions are also available in retail, hospitality, and the food and beverage industry, attracting students and those seeking additional income. Many companies are open to hiring part-time staff, particularly during seasonal peaks or periods of high demand. It is easier for employers to hire foreign workers for such jobs as, in most cases, Bahrainization laws do not apply to such positions.
Considerations for expats seeking employment in Bahrain
Although many job opportunities are available in Manama, expatriates are advised to prepare for some challenges.
Bahrainization policy
The Bahrainization policy, introduced in the 1980s, aims to increase the proportion of Bahraini citizens in the workforce. This initiative requires companies to hire more Bahraini workers and provides government-sponsored training to improve their competitiveness. For instance, companies are expected to increase Bahraini employment by 5% annually until they reach a workforce of 50% nationals. New businesses with 10 or more employees must have 20% Bahrainis, with a 5% increase each year until 50% is achieved. Businesses with fewer than 10 employees must hire at least one Bahraini aside from the owner.
Recently, the policy has become more focused, particularly in government and public sector jobs. This shift is likely to intensify competition for positions in sectors prioritized for Bahrainis, further promoting local employment. The policy aims to reduce reliance on foreign labor and create more job opportunities for Bahraini nationals.
Economic fluctuations
Manama's economy, like many others in the region, is quite dependent on global oil prices. The pace at which the government of Bahrain is taking is outstanding and investment diversification is being enhanced, it is a fact that changes in oil prices will continue to affect job creation in the energy sector.
Working hours and weekends
Typical working hours in Manama are from eight to nine hours a day for five or six days a week. Generally, the work hours starting time ranges from 7:30 to 9:00 am and ending from 3:30 to 6:00 pm. Some workplaces with longer working hours offer lunch breaks.
The official week starts on Sunday and ends on Thursday, and Friday and Saturday are usually the weekend days. There are some exceptions to that in firms with a rotating shifts system or some workplaces with six days working weeks. Bahraini customs involving Friday prayers lead some businesses that operate on weekends to close early on Fridays.
During the holy month of Ramadan, however, a shorter working day is implemented. Typically, workplaces switch to six-hour working days to accommodate people's health and lifestyle change that comes with fasting from dawn till dusk. Working hours vary amongst industries and organizations; therefore, an employee should check with the employer regarding working hours.
Public holidays
Bahrain offers nine public holidays over the course of the year for citizens to celebrate Islamic and official occasions, such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Labor Day, Islamic New Year, Prophet's Birthday, Ashoora National Day, Accession Day, and New Year Day. On those days, most businesses shut down, except retail and the F&B industry.
The work culture in Manama
Adapting to the work culture in Manama requires expatriates to embrace local values, practices, and workplace norms. Understanding social conventions, such as professional manners and cultural expectations, is essential for smooth integration.
Participating in community events and appreciating cultural traditions can help expatriates build connections with colleagues and the wider society, easing their transition into the Bahraini workplace.
Manama's work culture blends traditional and modern influences with values like respect, hospitality, and collaboration central to daily interactions.
Socializing at work is common, with tea or coffee breaks often serving as informal opportunities to build relationships. Networking is highly valued and can significantly influence career growth.
Dress codes in Manama vary by sector but tend to be conservative. Men typically wear suits or business casual attire, while women often choose professional outfits. In industries like hospitality or retail, uniforms may be provided.
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely used in business, especially in multinational companies. While knowledge of basic Arabic phrases can enhance communication and show respect for local culture, it's not essential for most roles.
Expatriates who embrace the professional and cultural opportunities in Manama can achieve both career success and a fulfilling personal life. The city's focus on economic diversification, coupled with its welcoming environment for foreign workers, makes it an attractive destination for professionals seeking growth and quality of life.
Useful links:
Bahrain Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA)
Bahrain Economic Development Board - Employment Sector Reports
Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
