Bereavement leave in Bahrain is a legally protected right that allows employees to take time off following the death of a relative without affecting their salary or job security.
The Bahraini Labour Law defines the leave duration, eligible family relations, and required documents—especially for Muslim women, who are granted extended leave after a husband’s death. To facilitate the process, many workplaces offer a structured request form.
This article explains everything you need to know about bereavement leave in Bahrain, including conditions, entitlements, and when to seek legal support.
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Bereavement Leave Under Bahraini Labour Law
According to Bahraini Labour Law, employees are entitled to three days of fully paid bereavement leave upon the death of a relative up to the fourth degree of kinship. This provision allows workers to manage mourning rituals and fulfill family duties.
Key Provisions:
Duration: Three full paid working days.
Eligible Relations: Up to the fourth degree of kinship.
Required Documents: Official death certificate and proof of kinship.
Notification: The employer must be formally informed in a timely manner.
Bereavement Leave Duration for Widows
In cases where a Muslim female Employee Rights Under Labour Law loses her husband, the law grants her a paid leave of one full month, covering the initial period of the legally mandated mourning (iddah). If needed, she may supplement the iddah period using her annual leave or unpaid leave, extending the mourning period to up to three months and ten days.
Breakdown:
One Month Paid Leave immediately following the husband’s death.
Extension Options: Annual leave or unpaid leave to complete the iddah period.
Condition: The leave is exclusive to Muslim female employees.
Eligibility Requirements for Bereavement Leave
Bereavement leave is granted only if the following conditions are met:
The deceased must be a relative within the fourth degree.
The employee must submit a valid death certificate.
Formal notice must be given to the employer.
Proof of kinship must be attached (e.g., ID card or family register).
Sample Bereavement Leave Request Form
To streamline approvals, employees are often required to submit a formal request. Below is a sample bereavement leave application:
Date: …/…/…
To: HR Manager
Subject: Bereavement Leave Request
Dear Sir/Madam,
I respectfully request bereavement leave in accordance with the Bahraini Labour Law due to the passing of [relationship + full name of deceased] on …/…/….
I kindly ask for the legally mandated leave:
– **Three paid working days** for the death of a relative up to the fourth degree.
– **One full month for Muslim female employees** in the case of a spouse’s death, with the option to extend using annual or unpaid leave.
Attachments:
1. Official death certificate
2. Proof of kinship
Sincerely,
Name: ……………
Job Title: ……………
Employee ID: ……………
Signature: ……………
[For HR Use Only]
Approval: ☐ Approved ☐ Not Approved
Authorized By: ……………
Signature: ……………
Date: …/…/…
Why You Should Hire a Labour Law Attorney
Engaging a lawyer in Bahraini labour law can significantly enhance your ability to secure your legal rights during difficult times. An attorney can:
Advise on your full entitlements under bereavement leave law.
Represent you in disputes with employers regarding leave.
Ensure your employer is fully compliant with applicable labour regulations.
With expert legal support, you can focus on healing while ensuring your legal protections remain intact.
FAQs on Bereavement Leave in Bahrain
Bereavement leave in Bahrain serves as a crucial legal safeguard, balancing the needs of grieving employees with workplace responsibilities. If you’re navigating a personal loss and need legal assistance, our team is ready to help.
Tap the WhatsApp button below to consult with a qualified Bahraini labour attorney.
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