Bahrain’s Government Boosts Employment and Wages Amid Economic Initiatives

MANAMA, Bahrain — In a significant economic move, the Bahraini government announced on April 4, 2025, that approximately 13,570 citizens received pay rises averaging BD80 ($212) last year through a government-supported employment scheme. Additionally, 15,580 individuals found new jobs facilitated by national employment programs, as reported to Parliament.

The initiatives were coordinated through the Labour Fund, known as Tamkeen, which aims to encourage private companies to increase wages and provide adequate training for employees. The government noted that the wage top-up program directly contributed to salary enhancements over the past year.

Moreover, the revised National Employment Programme increased the average starting salary for new hires by BD60 ($159). New employment opportunities were organized through five main tracks: the employment program itself, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, private job centers, and continued support for job seekers.

Statistics from the government reveal that private sector salaries in Bahrain have steadily increased, with the average wage climbing from BD757 ($2,021) in 2021 to BD853 ($2,270) in 2024, marking a 12.7% increase over four years. Furthermore, around 25,840 private sector workers received assistance to advance their careers through various support schemes.

These schemes include leadership placement, funding for professional certifications, in-house training support, specialized skills programs, and opportunities for overseas experience. In a strategic move, the government aims to assist 50,000 Bahrainis annually in 2025 and 2026, either through job placements or by helping current employees progress within their companies.

The plan includes goals of employing 13,000 new individuals in 2025 and improving job prospects for 37,000 others through pay increases, skill development, or certification programs. Projected support this year could extend to around 9,000 private businesses, aiming to promote growth through funding, assistance for start-ups, and tailored development tools for smaller enterprises.

The government’s focus in the forthcoming budget remains on strengthening the role of Bahraini citizens in the private sector, integrating graduates into the job market, ensuring workplace stability, and expanding access to skilled trades. It also committed to ongoing support for hiring Bahraini women and individuals with disabilities, while continuing incentives for companies that employ local talent.