Bahrain Draft Law Would Reserve Private Security Jobs for Bahrainis
A new draft law sent to Bahrain's parliament would make private security guard jobs Bahraini-only, with expats allowed only as a temporary exception.
BahrainIn brief
- A draft law referred to Bahrain's Council of Representatives would reserve private security jobs for Bahraini citizens.
- Non-Bahrainis could only be hired temporarily, as an exception, under conditions set by ministerial decision.
- Security staff would need to be at least 18, medically fit, trained, qualified and hold a good conduct certificate.
- The bill is not yet law and still has to pass through parliament.
| Country | Bahrain |
|---|---|
| Organization | Bahrain Council of Representatives |
| Official source | News of Bahrain – draft private security law ✓ newsofbahrain.com |
Private security could soon become a Bahraini-only career. A draft law referred to Bahrain's Council of Representatives would reserve private security jobs for Bahraini citizens, according to a report by News of Bahrain on 17 October 2026. Foreign workers would only be allowed in these roles temporarily and as an exception.
What the draft law says about jobs
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can work as security staff | Bahraini nationals |
| Minimum age | 18 |
| Other requirements | Medically fit, qualified, trained, good conduct certificate |
| Expat workers | Only temporarily, as an exception, under a ministerial decision |
| Regulator | Ministry of Interior |
| Status | Draft law before parliament |
The bill has 24 articles. It also sets out how security companies are licensed and run. Only commercial businesses registered in Bahrain could get a licence, and each would need to name a responsible security manager and report its staff and work locations to the authorities.
State security bodies, for example the police, the National Guard, the Bahrain Defence Force and the National Intelligence Agency, are outside the law, and so are domestic guards working in private homes.
Penalties for companies
Firms that offer security services without a licence, or break other key rules, could face prison, fines from BD500 to BD5,000, or both. Licensed companies would also be banned from carrying out investigations or collecting information, and from moving cash and valuables without the correct licence.
Why it matters for jobs
Security guard work is one of the larger sources of entry-level jobs in Bahrain's private sector. Reserving it for citizens would open more openings for Bahraini job seekers, especially those without a university degree. It follows a wider push in parliament to move Bahrainis into private-sector roles now held by expats.
What it means for job seekers
- Bahrainis: if the law passes, security companies will need to hire many more nationals. Getting the right training and a good conduct certificate now could put you ahead.
- Expat security guards: nothing changes yet. The bill must still be debated and approved. Keep your work permit valid and watch for official news from the Ministry of Interior and LMRA.
- Plan ahead. If you work in security as an expat, consider building skills for related roles, such as facility management or safety, which are not covered by the draft.
- Ignore rumours. Only official announcements count. Do not pay anyone who promises to "protect" your job.
Related: Bahrain lets expat workers work for another employer for up to 3 months and how to check your Bahrain work permit status.
Frequently asked questions
Will expats lose security guard jobs in Bahrain?
Not yet. The rule is only in a draft law. If it is passed, security jobs would be for Bahrainis, with expats hired only as a temporary exception.
What are the requirements for security staff under the draft law?
Bahraini nationality, a minimum age of 18, medical fitness, the required qualifications and training, and a good conduct certificate.
Who would regulate private security companies?
The Ministry of Interior would license, supervise and monitor companies providing security services to others.
Apply only through the official source.
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