The Legal Process to Claim Overtime Pay in Bahrain

In Bahrain’s construction, contracting, oil & gas, maritime, and other high-risk industries, long working hours are common.

However, Bahraini labour law protects workers’ right to fair overtime pay, ensuring that any work beyond normal hours is compensated at a legally mandated higher rate.

This blog explains when overtime pay is due, how it is calculated, and the legal process for claiming it if your employer fails to pay.

Learn about your rights under Bahrain Labour Law.

When Overtime Pay is Required

Under Bahraini labour law:

Standard working hours: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week.
Overtime: Any hours beyond the standard must be compensated.
Rate: Overtime pay is calculated at a higher rate (usually 125% for normal overtime, 150% or more for weekends/public holidays depending on regulations).
Special rules apply to high-risk jobs, including work during restricted summer hours.

Employer’s Legal Obligations

Employers must:

Record workers’ daily working hours accurately.
Pay overtime rates as per the contract and law.
Provide payslips showing basic pay, overtime pay, and deductions.

Failure to comply can result in legal penalties and back payment orders.

Steps to Claim Overtime Pay in Bahrain

1. Review Your Contract

Check the overtime terms stated in your employment contract.
Compare them to the actual hours you have worked.

2. Keep Records

Maintain a personal log of working hours.
Keep copies of rosters, duty schedules, and attendance sheets.

3. Raise the Issue Internally

Submit a written request to your employer or HR department for the unpaid overtime.
Keep a copy of your request for your records.

4. File a Complaint with the Ministry of Labour

If the employer fails to respond, lodge a formal complaint with the Ministry.
Provide evidence such as payslips, work schedules, and witness statements.

5. Follow the Legal Process

The Ministry will review your case and attempt settlement.
If unresolved, the matter can proceed to the Labour Court for a binding decision.

Legal Protections for Workers

Employers cannot retaliate against workers for making a legitimate overtime claim.
Workers are entitled to back pay for overtime going back within the legal claim period.
If the employer is found guilty of deliberate withholding, fines and penalties may be imposed.

Get advice from the Best Lawyer in Bahrain for labour law cases.

Example:

A group of steelworkers in Bahrain regularly worked 10-hour shifts but were only paid for 8 hours. They kept personal timesheets and collected copies of site rosters. After filing a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, the employer was ordered to pay all outstanding overtime plus a penalty for non-compliance.

Best Practices for Workers