Expert Legal Solutions for Labor Law and Worker Rights in High-Risk Sectors
At Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants, we understand the complex and sensitive nature of labor relations in Bahrain—especially in high-risk sectors such as construction, oil and gas, marine and fishing, electrical work, industrial zones, transportation and logistics, and maintenance in high-rise buildings.
These sectors form the backbone of Bahrain’s economic development but also involve some of the most hazardous working conditions, particularly for migrant laborers. From workplace injuries and wage disputes to wrongful terminations and labor contract violations, we provide comprehensive legal services that safeguard the rights of both employers and employees.
Whether you are a company seeking full compliance with Bahrain’s Labor Law or a worker facing unlawful treatment, our legal team offers strategic counsel, litigation support, and preventative solutions to resolve labor issues with precision, professionalism, and fairness.
Our services include:
• Drafting and reviewing labor contracts tailored to high-risk sectors
• Advising employers on legal hiring practices, worker classifications, and sponsorship laws
• Representing workers in cases of unfair dismissal, unpaid wages, or workplace injuries
• Navigating labor investigations, inspections, and Ministry of Labour disputes
• Managing issues related to occupational safety, work permits, and visa regulations
• Mediation and legal representation in labor courts and settlements
With Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants, you gain a legal partner with deep understanding of both labor rights and employer responsibilities in Bahrain. We work tirelessly to reduce risks, ensure lawful employment practices, and promote safe, fair, and dignified working conditions across the Kingdom.
Navigating Bahrain’s Labor Law in High-Risk Industries
The Kingdom of Bahrain has long been a regional hub for large-scale infrastructure, industrial development, and international investment. This progress depends heavily on a labor force that is predominantly foreign, often working in high-risk sectors such as construction, oil and gas, marine operations, factories, logistics, and building maintenance.
However, with progress comes a growing need for strict legal oversight and enforcement of labor rights. Despite Bahrain’s robust legal framework—anchored in Labour Law No. 36 of 2012 and various ministerial resolutions—numerous challenges persist in the field:
• Frequent workplace injuries in construction and electrical sectors, often due to lack of proper training or safety equipment.
• Unlawful terminations and contract breaches, particularly affecting migrant workers with limited legal awareness.
• Delayed or unpaid wages, especially for subcontracted laborers in logistics, marine, and factory work.
• Visa and residency issues, including sponsorship violations and denial of mobility rights.
• Lack of insurance coverage, occupational safety breaches, and non-compliance with the Labour Law’s protective provisions.
These violations are not only unethical but also expose employers to litigation, fines, and business disruption.
At Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants, we bring a dual focus: protecting workers’ dignity and rights, while helping employers remain compliant with evolving labor legislation. We have deep expertise in resolving labour disputes, drafting and structuring contracts that mitigate legal exposure, and advocating before the Ministry of Labour, Labor Courts, and relevant regulatory bodies.
We believe that lawful employment is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s the foundation of business sustainability, social stability, and human dignity.
Whether you operate in construction, marine transport, or industrial services—or are a worker seeking protection—our team offers reliable, confidential, and professional legal support for every stage of the labor relationship.
Our Values and Principles in Labor Law Representation
At Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants, our work in labor law is rooted in a profound respect for justice, fairness, and human dignity. We believe that labor relations—whether between employer and employee, or between government and private entities—must be built on a foundation of clarity, equity, and mutual accountability.
We are committed to the following core values:
• Integrity and Transparency
We uphold complete honesty in every consultation and case we handle, whether advocating for workers’ rights or advising employers. Our clients receive truthful legal opinions and clear explanations of risks and obligations—without ambiguity.
• Justice and Equality
We believe every worker has the right to fair treatment, regardless of nationality, sector, or job role. We actively support efforts to eliminate exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and unfair dismissal—especially in high-risk industries.
• Client-Centered Advocacy
Whether we are representing a business navigating labor compliance or an individual seeking redress for mistreatment, our approach is always personalized, practical, and deeply focused on results. We do not apply generic solutions—we tailor our strategy to the client’s specific context.
• Legal Precision and Timeliness
In labor disputes, time is critical. We work swiftly to prevent delays in compensation, avoid regulatory penalties, and restore working relationships where possible. We meet every deadline and prepare every document with meticulous care.
• Confidentiality and Protection
Many labor law cases involve sensitive issues—wrongful termination, harassment, visa problems, or illegal deductions. We guarantee confidentiality and discretion at every step, offering our clients a safe legal space to seek help.
Our mission in labor law goes beyond legal documentation—we work to build ethical workplaces, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure that the businesses driving Bahrain’s economy remain compliant, resilient, and reputable in the eyes of the law.
Oil and Gas Industry
Bahrain’s oil and gas sector poses unique risks: fire hazards, gas exposure, and remote-site accidents. Our legal support includes:
- Advising on shift schedules, high-risk duty allocations, and hazardous allowance structures.
- Drafting safety-compliant employment contracts for offshore, refinery, or high-pressure environments.
- Representing companies or workers in injury disputes, gas explosion cases, or wrongful death claims.
- Ensuring employer compliance with HSE standards, confined space regulations, and refinery work permits.
Construction and Contracting
The construction sector in Bahrain is the most hazardous and labor-intensive. Migrant workers, long project timelines, and subcontractor chains create a high-risk legal environment. We assist in:
- Drafting and reviewing employment contracts and subcontractor labor arrangements.
- Ensuring compliance with OSH (Occupational Safety and Health) regulations, especially regarding scaffolding, electrical works, and fall protection.
- Handling compensation claims for injuries, fatalities, and unsafe working conditions.
- Managing investigations and defense strategies for Ministry of Labour or court complaints.
- Resolving disputes involving unpaid wages, forced overtime, or contract termination in line with Bahrain’s Labor Law.
Marine Work and Fishing
Workers in ports, boats, and marine construction face dangers during storms, isolation, and equipment failure. We offer:
- Legal representation in drowning, boat malfunction, or vessel accident cases.
- Drafting employment contracts for seasonal workers, divers, and port laborers.
- Handling insurance claims and compensation disputes for offshore maritime labor.
- Advising on international maritime labor conventions and their application in Bahrain.
Electrical Work
Electrocution and safety violations are major concerns, especially in older buildings and utility poles. Our legal team supports:
- Drafting clear risk disclosure and hazard acknowledgment clauses in employment contracts.
- Legal defense for electricity-related workplace accidents or regulatory violations.
- Assisting injured workers in filing compensation claims or seeking insurance settlements.
- Counseling employers on gear and insulation compliance standards under Bahrain’s labor law.
Transportation and Logistics
Truck drivers, warehouse staff, and port handlers face long hours, fatigue, and road risks. Our legal services include:
- Legal advisory on fatigue management, overtime compensation, and accident liability.
- Resolving disputes involving road accidents during duty hours, missed insurance payments, or unauthorized terminations.
- Ensuring employers meet their obligations regarding break hours, route safety, and vehicle condition.
Factories and Industrial Zones
With Bahrain’s industrial hubs like Sitra, Hidd, and Salman Industrial City, the legal landscape is shaped by machinery accidents, chemical exposure, and fire risks. We offer:
- Compliance checks for worker training, machine maintenance, and fire safety policies.
- Representation in cases involving chemical burns, equipment failures, or hazardous material exposure.
- Ensuring fair dispute resolution in cases of wrongful dismissal, mass layoffs, or illegal deductions.
Migrant Labor and Visa Issues
With Bahrain’s reliance on foreign labor, we frequently assist clients with:
- Resolving sponsorship disputes, visa delays, or residency-related employment issues.
- Handling cases of passport retention, forced labor, or illegal deductions.
- Advising companies on proper sponsorship transfer procedures and termination notices.
- Supporting migrant workers in navigating Ministry of Labour complaints or court proceedings.
Whether you're an employer navigating complex labor regulations or a worker facing unfair treatment, Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants brings the legal precision, strategic counsel, and compassion required to protect your rights, ensure full compliance, and build ethical labor relationships in Bahrain.
Cleaning and High-Rise Maintenance
Workers engaged in window cleaning and rooftop maintenance are often exposed to life-threatening risks without adequate protection. We provide:
- Legal action in cases of injury or fatal fall due to absence of harnesses or safety training.
- Drafting service-level agreements that clearly define safety obligations between subcontractors and building owners.
- Supporting workers in compensation claims and employers in accident investigation procedures.
Our Labor Law Achievements
At Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants, we have built a distinguished track record of resolving complex labor law challenges with precision, integrity, and impact. Our firm has successfully represented both employers and employees in high-stakes disputes, compliance investigations, and contractual conflicts across a wide range of workplace environments.
Over the years, we have:
• Recovered outstanding wages and benefits for hundreds of workers, including overtime, leave entitlements, and end-of-service compensation.
• Resolved legal disputes involving wrongful termination, workplace injuries, and harassment, securing fair outcomes while upholding dignity and justice.
• Advised employers on lawful restructuring and downsizing, ensuring alignment with Bahrain's Labour Law and avoiding litigation risks.
• Protected employers during Ministry of Labour audits and inspections, reducing exposure to penalties and safeguarding business continuity.
• Drafted and negotiated compliant employment contracts, internal policies, and disciplinary frameworks, tailored to the client's operational needs.
• Led dispute resolution efforts through mediation, arbitration, and labor courts, achieving cost-effective settlements and favorable rulings.
• Provided strategic guidance in sponsorship, visa, and residency challenges, especially for companies employing foreign workers.
• Delivered legal training for HR and compliance teams, empowering employers to handle grievances, investigations, and documentation with legal accuracy.
• Handled mass claims involving multiple workers, maintaining balance between legal compliance, operational needs, and reputational protection.
• Represented clients in employment-related insurance disputes, ensuring proper coverage and compensation in cases of injury, illness, or loss of life.
Our success in labor law stems from our deep understanding of legal obligations, our respect for human rights, and our commitment to delivering effective, ethical, and enforceable legal solutions. Whether you are facing internal labor issues, preparing for regulatory audits, or seeking to build a legally sound workplace, our team stands ready to support you with expert legal care.
Pro Bono Commitment
At Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants, we believe that access to justice is a fundamental right, not a privilege. As part of our commitment to social responsibility and legal empowerment, our firm proudly offers pro bono legal representation for 12 labor cases per year. These services are dedicated to supporting vulnerable workers in Bahrain—particularly those facing unjust treatment, unpaid wages, or unsafe working conditions—who cannot afford legal assistance. Through our pro bono initiative, we aim to uphold dignity, fairness, and human rights in the workplace.
We provide legal services across all areas of employment law, including employment contracts, workplace safety, termination and resignation, compensation disputes, visa and sponsorship matters, harassment claims, discrimination, labor investigations, and regulatory compliance under Bahraini labor legislation.
Absolutely. We draft and review employment contracts for both employers and employees, ensuring full legal compliance with Bahrain’s Labor Law, including probation clauses, job descriptions, salary terms, working hours, leave entitlements, and termination rights.
We offer representation before Bahrain’s Labor Court, Mediation & Conciliation Committees, and relevant government entities. We assist with defending or pursuing claims related to unlawful termination, unpaid wages, overtime, workplace injuries, and disciplinary measures.
Yes. We advise both employers and injured employees on occupational accident cases, compensation rights, liability assessments, and insurance procedures, particularly in high-risk sectors like construction, oil & gas, marine, and logistics.
Yes. We conduct labor law audits to assess company compliance with legal obligations related to employment practices, safety standards, wage regulations, and contract enforcement. We also assist with internal investigations involving misconduct or labor violations.
We help employers design disciplinary procedures and implement lawful actions aligned with Bahraini labor regulations. We also draft warning letters, internal memos, and termination notices to avoid legal exposure.
Yes. Foreign workers have full rights under Bahrain’s Labor Law. We represent expatriates in matters involving unpaid wages, illegal termination, passport withholding, sponsorship disputes, and abuse of labor rights.
We provide strategic legal guidance for mass terminations, restructuring, and redundancy plans. This includes risk mitigation, regulatory notifications, severance calculations, and post-termination compliance with GOSI and LMRA.
We help clients follow correct legal procedures including valid grounds for dismissal, notice periods, documentation of cause, severance payments, and official clearance to avoid wrongful termination claims.
Some of the most common violations include unpaid wages, overtime abuse, unsafe work environments, lack of contracts, arbitrary termination, visa fraud, and non-compliance with minimum wage and leave entitlements.
Yes. We offer tailored legal packages for small and medium businesses, including contract templates, employment policy handbooks, onboarding documentation, and regulatory registration to help them operate legally from day one.
We utilize mediation and negotiation to reach amicable settlements between parties, helping avoid costly and lengthy court proceedings. Our focus is always on protecting our clients’ rights while ensuring compliance with labor law.
Yes. Employers are legally required to ensure a safe work environment. We advise on occupational safety obligations, accident prevention protocols, and employer liability for injuries resulting from negligence.
We have extensive experience in labor disputes across high-risk sectors including construction, oil and gas, marine, manufacturing, and logistics. Our understanding of both legal and operational challenges allows us to deliver practical and effective legal solutions.
Yes. We maintain ethical boundaries while providing strong representation and strategic guidance for either party—whether employer or employee—ensuring fair and lawful resolutions.
We guide clients through the process of filing official complaints, gathering evidence, and pursuing claims before relevant legal and regulatory bodies. We are committed to protecting dignity, equality, and lawful treatment in the workplace.
Yes. We represent businesses and individuals during labor inspections, regulatory investigations, and hearings related to alleged non-compliance, violations, or licensing breaches.
Employees in Bahrain are entitled to annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, emergency leave, and official public holidays. We help clients understand entitlements and resolve disputes regarding leave denials or abuse.
Retention is a small percentage held back from each payment to ensure the contractor completes the work properly. This withheld amount is usually released once all defects are fixed after the Defects Liability Period.
Our firm combines deep legal expertise with a practical understanding of Bahrain’s labor environment. We provide clear, responsive, and effective legal solutions that prioritize our clients’ protection, whether in court or in preventive consultation.
Contact Us
Ready to protect your workplace and workforce with expert labor law support?
Whether you're an employer seeking compliance and risk management or an employee looking to defend your rights, Manal Dhahi Legal Consultants is here to guide you.
Our experienced legal team offers strategic advice, strong representation, and proactive solutions for all labor-related matters across Bahrain's most demanding sectors.