How to File a Labour Complaint with the Ministry of Labour in Bahrain

In Bahrain’s construction, contracting, oil & gas, maritime, and other high-risk industries, workplace disputes can arise over unpaid wages, unsafe working conditions, unfair dismissal, or violation of contract terms.

When internal discussions with the employer fail, workers have the legal right to file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Labour to protect their rights.

This blog explains the step-by-step process for filing a labour complaint in Bahrain, the evidence you need, and the legal protections you have as a worker.

Explore how we handle employment and workplace disputes in Bahrain.

Legal Right to File a Complaint

Bahraini labour law ensures that every worker can:

File a complaint for violations of contract terms or labour rights.
Seek government intervention without fear of retaliation.
Access free dispute resolution services provided by the Ministry of Labour.

Step-by-Step Process to File a Labour Complaint in Bahrain

1. Identify the Violation

Examples include unpaid wages, denial of overtime pay, unsafe working conditions, unlawful termination, or contract breaches.

2. Gather Evidence

Signed employment contract.
Payslips, bank transfer records, or payment receipts.
Attendance logs or work schedules.
Written communications with your employer.

3. Attempt Internal Resolution First

Submit a written complaint to your employer or HR department.
Give them a reasonable time to respond.

4. File the Complaint with the Ministry of Labour

In person: Visit the Ministry’s Labour Relations Directorate.
Online: Submit your case via the Ministry’s e-services portal.
By phone: Call the Ministry’s hotline to report urgent issues.

5. Provide Full Details

State the violation clearly.
Attach all supporting documents.
Include witness statements if available.

6. Ministry Investigation & Resolution

The Ministry may contact your employer for clarification.
If settlement is not reached, the case can be referred to the Labour Court.

Legal Protections for Workers

Employers are prohibited from retaliating against workers for filing complaints.
Workers cannot be lawfully terminated during an ongoing investigation.
If retaliation occurs, a separate claim for unlawful dismissal can be filed.

Hire an Employment Lawyer in Bahrain for workplace legal issues.

Example:

A group of construction workers had not received overtime pay for three months. After repeated unanswered requests, they filed a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, providing copies of their contracts, work schedules, and unpaid wage slips. The Ministry intervened, and the employer was ordered to pay all outstanding wages plus a penalty.

Best Practices for Workers