Bahrain Law No. 36/2012 (the Labour Law) governs the relationship between employees and employers in Bahrain with a few exceptions such as appointed officials of the Government and of public bodies who are subject to the regulations of civil or military service or a statute governing their work relationship.

This Practice Note sets out the terms and conditions that must be included and considered when drafting an employment contract (referred to as the “Agreement” under this Practice Note) between employees and employers. It is important to note that article 4 of Bahrain Law No. 36/2012 states that any condition or article in an Agreement shall be deemed null and void, if it diminishes or waives the employee's rights as provided under the Labour Law.

Employer: Any person or legal entity that employs an individual for remuneration.

Employee: A natural person in the service of an employer and under his or her supervision.