Violation of Labour Law in Bahrain is a vital topic for workers and employers alike.
Bahrain’s labour law lays out clear rights and duties that shield workers from abuse of every kind, whether physical, verbal, or psychological. It exists to keep the workplace safe and fair.
This article covers the legal rules on Violation of Labour Law in Bahrain, the penalties that come with it, and what to do if it happens to you.
Have you faced abuse or assault at work, but hesitate to take legal action because you fear for your livelihood? A safe workplace is a right guaranteed by law, not a favor. Our team handles labour cases every day. We’re ready to represent you right away, prove the violations against you, and secure the fair compensation you deserve, with full confidentiality.
Table of Content
Provisions on Violation of Labour Law in Bahrain
Bahrain’s Labour Law No. (36) of 2012 requires employers to provide a workplace free from abuse in all its forms. The provisions include the following:
- Protecting workers from violations. The law makes employers responsible for keeping the workplace free of unlawful practices, including physical assault and harassment.
- Reporting violations. Workers must report any incident they face to the competent authorities or the labour administration.
- Penalties. The law punishes those involved in violations with a fine or imprisonment, depending on how serious the offense is. The goal is to deter breaches.
Types of Violations and Common Examples
Bahrain’s labour law deals with several types of violations, including:
- Physical violations: hitting a worker or using physical force against them.
- Verbal violations: insults or abusive language that hurt a worker’s dignity.
- Psychological violations: threats or pressure that cause a worker psychological harm.
- Discrimination and harassment: the law bans every form of discrimination or harassment in the workplace.
What to Do If You Face a Violation
When a worker faces a violation at work, taking the right steps protects their legal rights and helps solve the problem effectively. These steps include:
- Report the incident. The first step is to tell the labour administration or your direct supervisor what happened. If the supervisor is the one responsible, go to senior management or the HR department.
- Document everything. Record every detail of the incident, including:
- The date and time it happened.
- The names of any witnesses.
- The nature of the violation (physical, verbal, or psychological) and any evidence, such as messages or photos.
- File an internal complaint. If your employer has an internal complaints system, submit a formal complaint and ask for an investigation and for the person responsible to be punished.
- Go to the Ministry. If the internal complaint doesn’t lead to a satisfactory result, file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development. It will investigate and take the appropriate legal action.
- Hire a specialized lawyer. Getting legal advice from the best lawyer in Bahrain who specializes in labour law can be a necessary step to protect your rights. A lawyer offers full support, from preparing legal files and pleading before the courts to claiming compensation.
- Ask for legal protection in serious cases, such as physical assault or harassment.
The Lawyer’s Role and Why You Should Appoint One
Appointing a lawyer who specializes in labour law is a key step to protect a worker’s rights and get the right legal advice. A lawyer provides services such as:
- Drafting complaints and helping prepare them properly.
- Representing the worker legally before the courts and the competent authorities.
- Securing fair compensation once the violation is proven.
Having a lawyer on your side improves your chances of getting justice and receiving your full rights under the law.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for Violation of Labour Law in Bahrain against a worker?
It depends on the type and seriousness of the violation. Penalties range from a fine to imprisonment, according to the provisions of the labour law.
Can a worker file a case directly without informing the employer?
Yes. If the problem isn't handled internally, the worker can go straight to the competent authorities, such as the Ministry of Labour or the Public Prosecution, without telling the employer.
In short, Violation of Labour Law in Bahrain is a sensitive and important subject for protecting workers and keeping the workplace safe.
Understanding the rights and duties set out in the law helps cut down violations and ensures justice.
If you need legal advice, call us now by clicking the WhatsApp button at the bottom of the screen.
For more information, also read:
End of service benefits under Bahrain Labour Law.
Working hours under Bahrain Labour Law.
The ruling on arbitrary dismissal under Bahrain Labour Law.

A Bahraini lawyer and the founder of a legal consultancy firm established in February 2019. He holds a Higher Degree in Sharia and Law from Al-Azhar University. He has extensive experience in court representation and providing legal advice in criminal, personal status, civil, and commercial matters. He is known for delivering clear, practical, and effective legal advice aimed at protecting his clients’ rights and interests, and has achieved tangible results in notable cases, including commercial litigation and inheritance matters
