Bahrain’s Labour Law No. 36 of 2012 defines employees’ rights to annual leave and public holidays, ensuring they receive proper time off while being fairly compensated.
This guide explains annual leave entitlements, public holidays, key legal considerations, and practical tips for both employers and employees.
Annual Leave in Bahrain
Annual leave is a basic employee right that allows workers to take time off while receiving their full salary.
1. Who is Entitled to Annual Leave?
- Employees who have completed one full year of service get 30 days of paid annual leave.
- Employees who have worked for less than a year receive leave on a pro-rata basis, meaning their leave is calculated based on the number of months they have worked.
2. Can Employees Take Leave Continuously?
- Employers must allow employees to take at least 14 consecutive days of leave per year.
- Some sources state that 15 days must be taken, with at least 6 consecutive days. It is best to refer to official LMRA guidelines for confirmation.
3. Who Decides When Leave Can Be Taken?
- Employees have the right to take their leave, but the employer can schedule it based on work demands.
- Employers cannot deny employees their earned leave but may organize the timing to ensure business operations continue smoothly.
4. Is Leave Paid?
- Yes, employees must be paid their regular salary during their leave.
5. Can Unused Leave Be Carried Over?
- Some companies allow carryover, while others require employees to use their leave within the same year.
- Employees should check their employment contract or company policy.
6. What Happens to Leave When an Employee Resigns or is Terminated?
- If an employee has unused annual leave, they must receive payment for those days upon leaving the company.
Public Holidays in Bahrain
In addition to annual leave, employees in Bahrain are entitled to paid public holidays.
Public holidays are declared by the government and may change each year. Employers must stay updated on official holiday announcements to remain compliant.
List of Common Public Holidays in Bahrain
While exact dates may change, the following are the main public holidays in Bahrain:
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Eid Al-Fitr – Islamic calendar (dates vary)
- Arafat Day – Islamic calendar
- Eid Al-Adha – Islamic calendar
- Islamic New Year – Islamic calendar
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Islamic calendar
- National Day – December 16 & 17
Employers should refer to government sources each year for accurate dates.
Key Legal Considerations for Employers
1. Compliance is Mandatory
- Employers must follow Bahrain’s labor laws regarding leave and public holidays.
- Non-compliance can result in legal penalties and fines.
2. Leave Policies Must Be Clear
- Employers should have written leave policies and communicate them to employees.
- Policies should cover how leave is calculated, scheduling rules, and carryover policies.
3. Employers Must Keep Leave Records
- Companies must document employee leave and public holidays to:
- Ensure correct payroll processing.
- Provide proof of compliance if required by labor authorities.
- Avoid disputes over leave entitlements.
4. Communication is Key
- Employees and employers should discuss leave requests in advance to avoid work disruptions.
- Companies should encourage employees to plan their leave early.
What to Do If Leave or Holiday Pay is Denied?
If an employer refuses to provide annual leave or public holiday pay, employees can:
- Speak with HR or management to resolve the issue.
- Keep records of their leave entitlements and salary slips.
- File a complaint with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) if the issue is not resolved.
The LMRA investigates complaints and takes action against companies that violate labor laws.
Practical Tips for Employers and Employees
For Employers:
- Set up a clear leave policy and share it with employees.
- Keep accurate records of leave balances and public holidays.
- Ensure timely payment of leave wages.
- Stay updated on labor laws to avoid legal issues.
For Employees:
- Know your leave entitlements and track your leave days.
- Discuss leave requests early with your employer.
- Check your pay slip to ensure you are paid correctly for leave and holidays.
- Report violations if your rights are not respected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many annual leave days do employees get in Bahrain?
Employees get 30 days of paid annual leave after completing one full year of service. Those who have worked less than a year receive leave on a pro-rata basis.
2. Can employees take all 30 days of leave at once?
It depends on the company’s policy, but at least 14 consecutive days must be allowed. Some sources say 15 days must be taken, with 6 consecutive days. Check the official LMRA guidelines.
3. Can an employer refuse an employee’s leave request?
Employers can schedule leave based on work needs, but they cannot deny an employee’s right to annual leave.
4. Are public holidays paid in Bahrain?
Yes, employees must be paid for public holidays. If they work on a holiday, they may receive overtime pay or an extra day off.
5. What happens if an employee leaves the company with unused leave?
The employer must compensate the employee for any unused leave days at their regular pay rate.
6. Can unused leave be carried over to the next year?
Some companies allow it, while others require leave to be used within the same year. Employees should check their company’s leave policy.
7. Where can employees file a complaint about leave issues?
Employees can contact the LMRA or the Ministry of Labour to report unfair leave practices.
Where to Find Official Information
For the latest updates on labor laws and leave policies:
- Visit the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) website.
- Consult legal experts for professional advice.
Final Thoughts
Understanding annual leave and public holiday rights in Bahrain helps both employees and employers maintain a fair workplace. Employers must comply with the law and ensure proper leave policies, while employees should know their rights and use their leave responsibly.
By following Bahrain Labour Law, workplaces can create a balanced and transparent work environment for everyone.
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