News
MLSD Minister Meets the Tow Associations and Affirms the Government's Support for NGOs
29-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, today (Thursday) received the President of the Bahrain Public Relations Association, Dr. Fahad Ibrahim Al‑Shehabi, and the Chairman of the Bahrain Jurists Society, Dr. Abdul Jabbar Al‑Tayeb, to congratulate the two associations on obtaining special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). During the meeting, Humaidan said that granting this status reflects the international community’s confidence in Bahrain’s NGOs, which have advanced markedly thanks to the support of the esteemed Government, which provides them with every facility to fulfil their community role. He commended the two societies for their ongoing activities in public relations, human rights, and legal affairs, as well as for the professional reputation they enjoy locally and across the Gulf—qualities that qualified them for consultative status. For their part, Al‑Shehabi and Al‑Tayeb thanked the Ministry of Labour and Social Development for supporting NGOs, professional bodies and volunteers, noting that this backing has strengthened their work in various fields and enabled them to represent Bahrain with distinction in Arab and international fora.
MLSD Minister Rceives a Copy of the book (The National Approach in the Speeches of Hamad bin Isa)
28-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received Dr. Lulwa Budalamah at the Ministry on Wednesday, where she presented him with a copy of her book The National Approach in the Speeches of Hamad bin Isa. Humaidan commended the author’s valuable efforts in preparing this significant publication, which analyses the royal speeches of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him, within the framework of Bahrain’s national approach. He underscored the importance of such works, which document the King’s speeches, analyse their profound content and offer intellectual insights into politics and development, while examining the foundations of the Bahraini national approach from a scientific perspective. He noted that the book is an essential addition to the library of national publications and a distinguished reference for researchers and scholars in the Kingdom, and he wished the author every success in her future endeavours. For her part, Dr. Budalamah expressed her gratitude to the Minister for his support of cultural publications and his encouragement of writers and researchers to document the comprehensive achievements realised during the prosperous era of His Majesty the King, may God protect and preserve him.
The Kingdom of Bahrain Achives Four Awards from Distinguished Arab Youth Council for Integrated Development
25-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, praised the Kingdom of Bahrain’s success in securing four categories at the 12th edition of the Arab Youth Council Award for Integrated Development for Distinguished Arab Youth. The award, organised by the Arab Youth Council for Integrated Development in cooperation with the NGOs Department and the Youth and Sports Department of the Social Affairs Sector at the League of Arab States, carried the theme “Empowering Arab Youth Towards Positive Action.” Humaidan affirmed that this achievement underscores Bahraini youth's excellence and ability to demonstrate competence across numerous fields. It also reflects the private sector’s capacity to identify societal needs and launch distinguished initiatives. Award recipients • Dhuha Al-Bisher Madani Ishaq — first place, volunteer work • Dr. Ali Ahmed Mohammed Al Kharfoush, representing the Khalidiya Youth Society — second place, sports awareness • Khalidiya Youth Society — first place, social work • Bahrain International Federation of Business and Professional Women — first place, entrepreneurship Extending his congratulations, Humaidan lauded the winning youth and NGOs for this distinguished result, which reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to its young people under the unlimited support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him. He also highlighted the backing of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, whose guidance empowers youth to attain their ambitions and assume developmental roles. Humaidan further commended the leadership of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, for steering Bahraini youth toward creativity and excellence. The Minister thanked the Arab Youth Council for Integrated Development and the League of Arab States for championing youth engagement across the Arab world, expressing appreciation for their confidence in Bahraini youth and for selecting Bahrain’s initiatives for top honours in volunteer work, entrepreneurship and institutional efforts. The awards will be presented during the Arab Youth Celebration of International Youth Day 2021, to be held in Cairo from 12 to 14 August. This year’s event recognises 30 winners from nine Arab countries—Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine and Algeria. The awards honour outstanding Arab youth in media, culture, invention and innovation, entrepreneurship, volunteer and service work, scientific research, sports, humanitarian and relief work, and institutional work. Launched in 2006, the Distinguished Arab Youth Award seeks to instil the values of volunteerism and community service, promote patriotism and collective action, showcase exemplary Arab youth as role models and grant them the recognition their achievements merit. This year’s award focused on the work of Arab youth in the three areas outlined in the ‘Empowering Arab Youth Towards Positive Action’ initiative: Citizenship, Development and Peace; the focus was on outstanding Arab youth work that supported these themes.
MLSD Minister Discusses with CEO of Information and eGovernment Authority the Latest Developments of Lunching Employment Platform
24-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, held a videoconference with the Chief Executive of the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), Mr. Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, to discuss the latest developments on the Employability Skills Portal. This portal is one of the vital projects overseen by the Supreme Council for the Development of Education and Training, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister. The portal aims to create an accurate database covering jobs required by future productive sectors, as well as occupations likely to decline as technology and industry evolve. It will help shape educational and training programmes and refine students’ skills to meet future labour‑market needs. During the meeting—attended by officials from the Ministry and the Information & eGovernment Authority—the parties reviewed progress on the portal, in particular the Ministry’s provision of the necessary data and the Authority’s preparation of indicators to build an integrated electronic system offering comprehensive information on the skills and jobs most in demand. These data will guide future policies for government and higher education institutions and align educational outcomes with labour‑market requirements. Humaidan confirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with the Information & eGovernment Authority to complete this national project. He underlined that launching the Employability Skills Portal will, for the first time, provide detailed, verified labour‑market data at the national level, including indicators on workforce size, growth trends and developments in traditional and emerging occupations linked to technological advances, artificial intelligence, shifting business models and new production patterns. The portal will enable pupils, guardians and production stakeholders to track labour‑market changes and make informed academic and career decisions based on robust, real‑time indicators. For his part, Mr. Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, Chief Executive of the Information & eGovernment Authority, praised the ongoing cooperation and coordination between the Ministry and the Authority in launching this important national project. He emphasised that the Information & eGovernment Authority, in partnership with relevant entities, will work to develop the Employability Skills Portal throughout its various stages of preparation and achieve the shared government objectives of providing an innovative, high‑quality electronic system capable of providing unified and accurate information about the reality of the labour market in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Al Qaed emphasised that the Employability Skills Portal will rely on artificial intelligence and cloud‑computing technologies, which will contribute to achieving a set of goals, including saving time and effort, rationalising expenses, and providing a capacity that allows all beneficiary parties to view the information available through the portal simultaneously.
MLSD Reaching to a Quantum Leap in Digital Transformation & Providing eServices
23-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that the Ministry has achieved a qualitative leap in the digital transformation of its services, enabling easy and convenient communication and interaction with beneficiaries. This is aimed at leveraging technological developments to provide services more easily and overcome the difficulties citizens face in benefiting from the Ministry’s services in various labour and development fields. He praised the decisions issued by the Coordination Committee, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, which strengthened the digital‑transformation policy as part of the precautionary measures to limit the spread of the Coronavirus. Humaidan explained that the number of activated electronic services by the end of 2020 reached 52, implemented in cooperation with various government agencies, led by the Information & eGovernment Authority. These services include services provided to NGOs, employment and unemployment insurance, daycare centre licences for parents and People of Determination, and social assistance. Humaidan stated that this positive shift in providing services through modern technological means allows beneficiaries to access these services at any time, easily and conveniently, through the eGovernment portal (www.bahrain.bh) and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development website (www.mlsd.gov.bh). He noted that work is underway to develop more electronic services, after activating more than 122 services through other channels, including call centres and e‑mail. The Ministry has provided the opportunity to fill out application forms available on the Ministry’s website and submit them via e‑mail. Humaidan added that the Ministry continues to develop the electronic systems supporting the services it provides, in an effort to enhance these services, increase the efficiency of related operations and prepare them for a comprehensive digital transformation. He noted that, as part of implementing decisions to have Ministry employees work from home—especially working mothers—as part of the precautionary measures to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID‑19), those whose work requires them have been granted permission to use public electronic devices from home.
MLSD Minister Reviews Labor Services Development with PM Al-Ansari
21-07-2021
Humaidan reviews developments in labour and development services with MP Al Ansari. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Yousef Al Ansari, Member of the Council of Representatives, at the Ministry. The two sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, particularly in enacting labour and social legislation and improving the various services the Ministry provides to citizens. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed MP Al Ansari on developments in the labour and development services provided by the Ministry, as well as initiatives aimed at stabilising and protecting the national workforce and supporting private‑sector establishments so they can maintain their contribution to production and development, especially in these exceptional circumstances. He praised the role of the Council of Representatives in supporting legislation and initiatives that meet citizens’ aspirations in human development, integrating jobseekers into private‑sector establishments, and developing legislative systems in the social, family and welfare fields. For his part, MP Al Ansari commended the ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the legislative authority, noting the Ministry’s progress in social and labour services as part of the Government’s policy to ensure a decent standard of living for citizens and provide them with the best development services.
MLSD Minister: Launching interactive services to facilitate the integration of job seekers into the private sector
18-07-2021
New services allow employers to select their labour needs electronically. His Excellency Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development, confirmed that the Ministry is advancing its electronic‑services infrastructure in line with the national eGovernment strategy, launching a suite of digital solutions that allow seamless interaction among employers, job‑seekers and workers. Leveraging modern technology and accelerating digital transformation are central objectives that reinforce Bahrain’s standing as a global leader in eGovernment. To enhance the integration of Bahraini job‑seekers into private‑sector establishments and to meet employers’ requirements for national talent, the Ministry has introduced interactive services through its website, www.mlsd.gov.bh. Employers can now review up‑to‑date lists of job‑seekers, select candidates who meet their labour needs, and update the Vacancy Bank by adding new positions or removing posts that are no longer required, thereby ensuring the accuracy of advertised vacancies and streamlining recruitment. All entries are automatically cross‑checked with the Information and eGovernment Authority, the General Organisation for Social Insurance and the Labour Fund, Tamkeen, guaranteeing that data supplied by employers or job‑seekers matches official records. Humaidan noted that every labour transaction will migrate to this electronic platform in the coming period, enabling both employers and job‑seekers to obtain services quickly and with minimal effort. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s new e‑services enable employers to register company details, designate authorised system users and maintain a comprehensive electronic record of every vacancy posted, along with subsequent nomination outcomes. Employers can review full profiles and curricula vitae of candidates shortlisted for each post, issue electronic acceptances or rejections and contact applicants directly to schedule interviews or confirm appointments. In addition, the platform integrates on‑the‑job training through the Opportunities programme, allowing establishments to display current courses for their workforce, and facilitates the online request and issuance of Bahrainisation compliance certificates. Job‑seekers likewise benefit from a streamlined digital experience. First‑time applicants can create and update their records, upload qualifications and employment history, and access unemployment‑insurance support without visiting the Ministry. Registered users can browse the Vacancy Bank, self‑nominate for up to five positions simultaneously and track application progress with either the hiring employer or a Ministry employment counsellor. These services collectively advance the Kingdom of Bahrain’s goal of making recruitment, training and Bahrainisation processes more efficient, transparent and responsive for all stakeholders. Humaidan concluded by confirming that the forthcoming phase will introduce additional employer‑focused digital services, including online consultations, electronic accreditation of training courses and trainers for private institutes and centres, registration of workers’ housing details supplied by employers, and fully electronic reporting of accidents, occupational injuries and diseases, together with the registration of construction sites; these and other enhancements will further raise the efficiency and quality of services delivered to citizens throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain.
MLSD Minister Discusses with the PM AlAamer Employing Citizens in Private Sector
18-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority Board of Directors, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Ahmed Mohammed Al Amer, Member of the Council of Representatives, today, Sunday, at the Ministry. The two sides discussed the Ministry’s plans and programmes for employing and integrating citizens and developing social‑care programmes and services for beneficiary groups. During the meeting, Humaidan affirmed the Ministry’s continued efforts to accelerate the employment of citizens, enabled by the facilities provided by the esteemed Government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, which ensure the success of the Ministry’s projects—especially the wage‑support policy in the private sector and vocational training for jobseekers to equip them with the necessary skills. These efforts have sustained employment despite the exceptional global circumstances. For his part, MP Al Amer praised the programmes and projects the Ministry of Labour and Social Development implemented to provide a decent standard of living for citizens, and affirmed the Council of Representatives' support for all efforts to deliver the best services and facilitate citizens’ access to them.
MLSD Minsiter meets the New Designated Turkish Ambassador in Kingdom of Bahrain
17-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met at the Ministry with Her Excellency Mrs. Esen Cakil, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan welcomed Mrs. Cakil upon her appointment as Ambassador, wishing her success in her diplomatic duties and realising the aspirations of the leaderships of both countries to deepen cooperation across various fields. Humaidan reviewed the Kingdom’s efforts in developing human resources and the labour‑market reform project, as well as in enhancing social protection for workers and implementing policies and initiatives aimed at attracting more investment, given Bahrain’s favourable business environment and advanced national legislation. He called for strengthening cooperation between the two countries and drawing on pioneering experiences in diverse sectors. For her part, the Turkish Ambassador praised the strong relations between the two friendly countries, noting the progress achieved by Bahrain and the prestigious status it enjoys thanks to its advanced legislation—especially with regard to safeguarding workers’ rights—and the fact that a safe, healthy working environment is an attractive factor for investment. She affirmed her country’s keenness to strengthen and develop relations with the Kingdom in a manner that serves the interests of both countries and their peoples.
MLSD Minister Discusses with MP AlSaloum Improving National Human Resources
16-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Ahmed Sabah Al‑Salloum, Member of the Council of Representatives, at the Ministry to discuss ways to deepen cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities in support of development and social projects and initiatives in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed MP Al‑Salloum on the Ministry's ongoing efforts to enhance social welfare, qualify and integrate citizens seeking employment into private‑sector establishments, and maintain employment stability under various circumstances. He highlighted the Ministry's support for youth initiatives and assistance in establishing entrepreneurial projects and small and medium enterprises. He noted the Council of Representatives' role in supporting legislation, proposals and initiatives that improve and develop labour and social services. For his part, MP Al‑Salloum underscored the importance of close cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities, citing its positive impact on strengthening the social protection system and improving the level and quality of services provided by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to citizens, thereby advancing the desired sustainable development goals.
MLSD Minister: The noon work ban reflects Bahrain's commitment to preserving and protecting the workforce
15-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain has made great strides in enhancing the safety and health of all workers at production sites through a series of legislation and measures designed to develop occupational safety and health systems and create a safe working environment. This commitment, grounded in the Kingdom’s principles of protecting human rights—especially those of the working class—has placed Bahrain among the leading countries in workforce protection and earned it the international community's respect. He stressed that Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013, which prohibits work under direct sunlight and in open areas from 12:00 to 16:00 during July and August, is entirely consistent with international labour standards in providing the necessary protection for workers. This came in a statement by His Excellency the Minister after a surprise field visit to a number of construction work sites, which he conducted with a number of officials and occupational safety supervisors at the Ministry, on Thursday afternoon, to review the extent of the concerned establishments’ commitment to implementing the decision. During the visit, he met with a number of work site supervisors and reviewed the measures taken by their establishments at the sites to ensure a safe and sound work environment for workers, and to improve the efficiency and means of prevention to reduce occupational injuries. Humaidan praised companies’ and institutions’ adherence to the midday work‑ban decision, noting that Ministry inspectors have conducted 3,344 site visits since the measure took effect at the beginning of July. Only fifteen establishments were found in breach—an incidence rate of no more than 0.4 per cent—and the number of offending workers stood at twenty‑six. He underscored the importance of sustaining this commitment, highlighting both the decision’s humanitarian dimension and the productivity gains realised by compliant establishments. The decision has also fostered a culture of rescheduling work each year, shifting tasks away from periods of extreme heat and humidity and reallocating them to cooler hours, such as the early morning. This approach boosts facility productivity and enables projects to be completed on schedule. Safeguarding workers’ health and safety remains a paramount value, as the measure plays a direct and tangible role in protecting them from summer illnesses, heat stress, sunstroke and heat exhaustion caused by midday heat and humidity. Compliance with the decision has increased annually, exceeding 98 per cent in recent years. The ministerial decision stipulates that anyone who violates the provisions of this decision shall be punished with the penalties set out in Article (192) of the Private Labour Law, promulgated by Law No. (36) of 2012, which provides for imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months or a fine of not less than five hundred dinars and not more than one thousand dinars, or either of these penalties.
MLSD Minister Briefs MP Buhamoud on the National Plan for the Labor Market
14-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Bu-Hamoud, Member of the Council of Representatives, today, Wednesday, in his office at the Ministry. The two parties reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, particularly regarding the employment and integration of citizens into private‑sector establishments, and the support of legislation to sustain labour‑market development in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed the MP on the details of the National Labour Market Plan 2021–2023, approved by the Cabinet chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him. The Plan comprises several pillars designed to achieve sustainable growth and ensure the labour market's stability and cohesion. He noted that the Plan seeks to create more quality employment opportunities for citizens—making them the preferred choice for recruitment—by intensifying technical and vocational training programmes, enhancing the private sector’s contribution as the primary driver of economic growth, and continuing to develop oversight and regulatory measures. In this context, he praised the legislative authority’s support for all projects and initiatives to develop national human resources and expand employment opportunities, thereby helping to keep unemployment rates within safe and stable limits. For his part, Bu-Hamoud commended the efforts of all relevant parties in preparing the National Labour Market Plan, affirming the Council’s support for such initiatives, which are positively received by citizens and reflect the Government’s commitment to implementing projects and programmes that fulfil citizens’ aspirations for increased employment in the labour market.
MLSD Minister: The plan reflects the visions of His Highness the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister for the sustainability of comprehensive development
13-07-2021
The plan is aligned with government policies and programmes for the coming period. It provides more employment opportunities and enhances Bahrainis' employment advantages. It strengthens the role of the private sector and stimulates productivity and job quality. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, praised the Cabinet’s decision to adopt the National Labour Market Plan 2021‑2023. This plan reflects the vision and directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, to sustain growth and develop the labour market in accordance with the fundamental principles of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030—sustainability, competitiveness and fairness. It also aims to create quality employment opportunities for citizens, making them the preferred choice for employment, while continuing to develop oversight and regulatory measures and enhancing the private sector’s contribution to the labour market. In a statement on this occasion, Humaidan affirmed that the plan took into account the challenges facing the labour market and the achievements already made, building on them through a comprehensive national strategy that enhances economic growth, develops the capabilities and skills of national human resources, and improves the mechanisms, databases and indicators that contribute to sustainable growth in a world rife with changes. He stressed that the unprecedented measures adopted to maintain labour‑market stability during the Coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic demonstrated the Kingdom’s ability—supported by its business sector—to address these challenges responsibly, achieving cohesion and stability and enabling the market to overcome the repercussions of this exceptional phase. His Excellency noted that the National Labour Market Plan comprises key axes integrating the achievements of government and private entities to develop, stabilise and sustain the labour market and to provide a strategic framework guiding state institutions, employers and workers. He emphasised that the plan is consistent with, rather than a substitute for, the operational plans of the relevant state institutions linked to government programmes for the coming period. Humaidan added that the plan’s axes aim to create more quality opportunities for citizens—making them the preferred employment choice—by intensifying technical and vocational training, enhancing the private sector’s role as the primary driver of economic growth, and strengthening oversight, regulation and periodic review. He expressed confidence that Bahrain will enter a new phase, especially with the gradual return to normal life, increased economic activity and the generation of more employment opportunities for citizens across productive sectors. Under the axis of creating quality opportunities for citizens, the plan calls for continued alignment of educational outcomes with labour‑market needs and for strengthening technical and vocational training infrastructure. This goal is being pursued by the Supreme Council for the Development of Education and Training, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, through initiatives such as an advanced, sustainable post‑school education plan to prepare highly qualified national cadres by modernising the post‑school education system. In addition, the Employment Skills Platform initiative—developed in cooperation with the public and private sectors—provides integrated data on the key skills and jobs required by the labour market and helps shape future government policy. The plan, in its general framework, seeks to achieve the principle of employment preference for national workers as the goal and means for all policies and procedures governing the labour market in Bahrain. The plan also aims to develop a mechanism for the selective and gradual rationalisation of foreign worker recruitment, aligning demand with economic development requirements and bridging skills gaps in the labour market. This is so that the recruitment of workers complements, rather than replaces, the employment of qualified national workers. Policies and procedures for employing foreign workers must take into account the principle of balance in the structure of the labour market to ensure fair competition for national workers and prevent flooding the market with a surplus of unproductive and irregular workers. In addition, the plan will review and evaluate Bahrainisation rates in private‑sector establishments to ensure they are updated in line with labour‑market variables and indicators, thus enhancing the preference of Bahraini citizens when hiring, without harming the workflows of establishments, and focusing on attractive, quality jobs and sectors. The plan calls for capitalising on challenges and transforming them into opportunities, drawing on the realities imposed by the COVID‑19 pandemic. It also urges the continued use of government initiatives that mitigated the pandemic’s economic repercussions and safeguarded national employment by paying the salaries of citizens working in the private sector. Furthermore, the plan endorses successful experiences such as part‑time and remote‑work systems—flexible arrangements that harness the productive female workforce. This approach aligns with the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women 2013‑2022, supervised by the Supreme Council for Women, which aims to sustain the participation of Bahraini women in the labour market. A significant section is devoted to the private sector, promoting it as a key driver of development through the creation of quality job opportunities and increased investment. This is to be achieved by raising productivity, investing in digital and technological transformation, and enhancing job quality for Bahrainis in the private sector. In this context, the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) is working to meet market demands by increasing support for private‑sector institutions—covering operational costs, infrastructure and growth opportunities—while providing financing programmes, business‑development services and support for e‑transformation projects, as well as granting special privileges to companies committed to employing Bahraini citizens. To accelerate the employment of national workers, the plan calls for investing in training and human resource development so that job seekers secure quality positions. It supports all vocational training programmes that raise professional skills and enhance job stability. The plan also emphasises regulating workers’ housing licences and ensuring full compliance with safety requirements through continuous monitoring. It calls for intensified efforts to control informal workers and reduce their numbers, preventing unfair competition and protecting employers. In addition, the plan underscores the need to safeguard workers’ rights and benefits by completing the Wage Protection System, developing labour inspection and dispute‑resolution mechanisms, and strengthening action against forced labour and human trafficking. Finally, the plan stresses that sustaining labour‑market growth and achieving its objectives require ongoing cooperation among the three parties of production, institutional integration in programme implementation, and up‑to‑date data to track progress and labour‑market indicators—enabling well‑informed decisions that bolster labour‑market cohesion and advance the Kingdom’s comprehensive development goals.
MLSD Minister Reviews Youth Employment Initiatives & Promoting Social Protection
11-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Abdullah Khalifa Al‑Thawadi, Member of the Council of Representatives, at his office at the Ministry. The two sides reviewed the complementary relationship between the executive and legislative branches—particularly the integration of citizens into the labour market—and discussed the Ministry’s social welfare and protection services. Humaidan briefed the MP on ongoing efforts to accelerate the employment of citizens in the private sector and on incentive initiatives for employers and new employees aimed at attracting more national cadres, qualifying them to work across productive sectors, and raising the standard of social welfare services available to all segments of society. For his part, Al‑Thawadi affirmed the Council’s support for the Ministry’s various programmes to speed up the employment of Bahraini human resources and to introduce initiatives that place young people in specialised jobs and professions within private‑sector establishments—supported by wage subsidies and targeted training. He also praised the Ministry’s work to enhance social welfare provision and to streamline access to those benefits.
Issuing 107 of Money Licenses for NGOs during the first half of year 2021
10-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that, thanks to the close cooperation between the Ministry and the competent bodies responsible for issuing fundraising licences to civil society organizations and NGOs, the licensing process has been streamlined in line with all regulatory and security requirements. This progress is reflected in the quality of services delivered by charitable associations, with the number of NGOs that have obtained licences since the beginning of this year reaching 107 to date. Humaidan explained that charitable work in the Kingdom of Bahrain has enjoyed numerous facilitations in both normal and exceptional circumstances, pursuant to Government directives to support the sector. Enhanced coordination with the relevant authorities has raised the approval rate for licence applications to 94 % of all submissions. Additional momentum has come from boosting the efficiency of associations by training their employees in financial management: in cooperation with the Institute of Public Administration (BIPA), NGO accountants and financial secretaries have been awarded specialist certificates in association financial management. Moreover, NGOs have been guided to comply fully with the laws and regulations governing fundraising, which has reduced the number of non‑compliant applications. In a related development, NGOs have embraced electronic payment technologies. The Ministry coordinated with BenefitPay to regulate e‑payment operations after approving and designating companies licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain to collect donations and disburse them to beneficiaries. It also worked with the Central Bank and licensed providers such as Sadad and CrediMax to shield NGOs from the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing. With regard to fundraising during the holy month of Ramadan, the Ministry provided additional support by issuing special licences and regulating the distribution of Ramadan donations, including via electronic channels—measures that proved particularly valuable amid the COVID‑19 pandemic.
A direct line to report violations of the noon work ban in open spaces
10-07-2021
أعلنت وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية عن تخصيص رقم هاتف مباشر لتلقي بلاغات الجمهور عن مخالفات القرار رقم (3) لسنة 2013، بشأن حظر العمل وقت الظهيرة في الأماكن المكشوفة، في الفترة ما بين الساعة 12 ظهراً وحتى الرابعة عصراً، خلال شهري يوليو وأغسطس، وذلك على الهاتف رقم 32265727. وبهذه المناسبة تود الوزارة أن تعرب عن جزيل شكرها لكافة المواطنين والمقيمين على تعاونهم الدائم في هذا الخصوص، والذي يعكس ما يتمتعون به من حس إنساني يضمن التطبيق الأمثل لقرار حظر العمل وقت الظهيرة تحت أشعة الشمس المباشرة، والذي يهدف إلى الحفاظ على سلامة العاملين في مختلف مواقع العمل من مخاطر العمل في ظل الأجواء القاسية وسط الحرارة المرتفعة ونسب الرطوبة العالية في فصل الصيف ويقي العاملين من مخاطر الاجهاد الحراري وضربات الشمس.
MLSD Minister Praises the Efforts of the Philippine Ambassador to Enhance Cooperation in Labor Fields
09-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Mr. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, at the Ministry, marking the end of his diplomatic tenure in the country. During the meeting, Humaidan praised the Ambassador’s efforts to strengthen relations between the two friendly nations and advance them to broader horizons across various fields, particularly the technical and labour sectors. He wished the Ambassador success in his future endeavours. Humaidan also highlighted the contributions of the Filipino workforce and community to Bahrain’s comprehensive development, affirming the Kingdom’s desire to deepen and expand existing cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries. For his part, the Ambassador expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Bahrain for the support provided throughout his posting, including facilitation of his duties involving the Ministry and the Authority. He commended the protection and care enjoyed by the Filipino community under Bahrain’s advanced labour laws and legislation. The Ambassador further lauded the Kingdom’s achievement in maintaining Tier 1 status for the fourth consecutive year in the United States Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report, a distinction that enhances Bahrain’s international standing in protecting human rights.
MLSD Minister Confirms the Quality of Development Services Provided to Citizens
08-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Dr. Hisham Ahmed Al‑Asheeri, Member of Parliament, at the Ministry. The meeting considered strengthening cooperation between the executive and legislative branches in labour and social welfare services. During the meeting, Humaidan reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to raising the standard of living for citizens and providing them with quality employment opportunities by expanding investment opportunities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He outlined the latest initiatives implemented by the Ministry in the labour sector, measures to enhance social welfare for various segments of society, and efforts to improve the quality of services provided to them. Dr. Al‑Asheeri lauded the Ministry’s efforts to advance development services for citizens in labour and social services. He underscored the importance of intensifying initiatives aimed at providing more employment opportunities for Bahraini human resources and maintaining the stability of the national workforce in their jobs, especially under these exceptional circumstances.
MLSD Efforts to Recruit National Labor in Private Sector
04-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Mr. Ali Mohammed Ishaqi, Member of the Council of Representatives, at the Ministry. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed the MP on the foremost initiatives and projects undertaken by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to serve citizens—particularly those related to rehabilitation and employment programmes, developing labour‑market systems, and enhancing employment stability for citizens in the private sector. He emphasised the Government’s commitment to providing comprehensive social care to all segments of society. For his part, MP Ishaqi praised the Ministry’s efforts to implement the Government’s policy of ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens and delivering the best services. He noted the measures adopted during these exceptional circumstances to safeguard employment stability for national human resources in private‑sector establishments, along with the Ministry’s work to foster community development and strengthen its social partnerships with NGOs.
MLSD Minister Meeting with Japanese Ambassador
01-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency the Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Mr. Masayuki Miyamoto, at the Ministry. Humaidan welcomed the Ambassador at the outset of his mission, wishing him every success in enhancing cooperation between the two friendly countries. In this context, Humaidan reviewed the Kingdom’s efforts to develop human capital, the progress of the labour‑market reform project, and initiatives to strengthen social protection for workers and attract additional investment, underpinned by advanced national legislation and a competitive business environment. He expressed hope to deepen cooperation by drawing on the pioneering experience of both nations in labour, welfare and social development. Ambassador Miyamoto voiced his pleasure at serving in Bahrain and affirmed Japan’s keenness to strengthen bilateral relations across diverse development fields.