Bahrainisation: Cabinet to introduce optional system

Manama : Based on a recommendation by the Executive Committee, chaired by Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa the Cabinet yesterday agreed to introduce an optional system that is parallel to the existing Bahrainisation drive. Under the scheme, employers wishing to increase the number of expatriate workers will pay extra fees, according to specific regulations.

The system stipulates that Bahrainisation is an essential requirement to keep and renew work permits
for expatriates. Institutions and facilities should also confirm the number of Bahraini employees at the beginning of the implementation of the new scheme, which will apply to the overall renewal process a year after its first application.

The Cabinet session, chaired by Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, also requested the relevant sides to take necessary legal procedures to implement the scheme. The Cabinet also reiterated its keenness to enhance the preferentiality of Bahrainis while maintaining flexibility to ensure the growth of the private sector.

Visits to villages and cities

Prince Khalifa directed to intensify field visits to cities and villages to get first-hand information about the need for services. The Premier gave instructions to follow up the needs of Buri and Abu Baham villages, including the opening of new exits to Buri, completion of sewage network and the roads services in Buri, as well as housing services in the two villages.

HRH Premier was also informed about the needs of Qalali village regarding youth and sport facilities. 

“Those needs were highlighted in the report presented by the Youth and Sport Affairs Minister on the visit he had made to the village following the Prime Minister’s directives,” Secretary General of Cabinet Dr. Yasser bin Essa Al Naser said in a statement following the session.