Bahrain Achieves 99.98 Percent Compliance With Summer Midday Work Ban
Bahrain's Ministry of Labour has recorded a 99.98% compliance rate with the Midday Work Ban, which prohibited outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM between June 15 and August 31, 2026.
- 30,246 inspection visits were conducted throughout the enforcement period.
- Only six establishments were found violating the mandate involving 17 workers.
- Cases have been referred to the relevant judicial authorities for legal action.
Inspection Results and Regulations
According to the Ministry, inspection teams conducted 30,246 visits throughout the enforcement period, identifying only six establishments violating the mandate. These violations involved 17 workers, and the cases have been referred to the relevant judicial authorities for legal action. The initiative, implemented under Decision No. 5 of 2026, aimed to mitigate risks such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke during extreme summer temperatures. While the seasonal ban concluded on August 31, Labour Minister Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf confirmed on September 14 that the government remains committed to year-round occupational health and safety standards.
Impact on Expatriate Workforce
This regulation is significant for the Indian expatriate community, which numbers approximately 350,000 in Bahrain. According to the Embassy of India, over 65% of the Indian workforce in the country is employed in construction, contracting, and maintenance sectors, where workers are frequently exposed to high heat. With temperatures forecast to exceed 40°C in September, the Ministry emphasized that employers must continue to ensure hydration, shade, and safety protocols.
How to Report Violations
Workers in Bahrain may report labour violations through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority call centre at 17506055, the Expat Protection Centre 24x7 helpline at 995, or the Tawasul complaints system. Indian nationals requiring assistance can contact the Embassy of India’s Community Welfare and Labour section at +973 17180529 or the 24x7 emergency line at +973 39418071.