Kingdom of Bahrain is working to diversify its economy and attract more foreign investment. To support this goal, there have been significant updates to the Commercial Companies Law (CCL). A key change is that foreign ownership is now permitted up to 100% in certain sectors. This opens up better opportunities for foreign investors. They can now own and run their businesses completely. This makes the market more appealing and competitive. As a result, many industries are experiencing a boost in foreign investment.
Kingdom of Bahrain has simple economic rules. These rules bring in investors and business people from around the globe. The country allows 100% foreign ownership in several business activities read more allows 49% foreign ownership. This opens up several opportunities for companies to expand and succeed worldwide.
This openness involves several areas. These areas are trading, manufacturing, services, real estate, and technology. The Bahrain government checks and updates its rules on foreign ownership often. This practice helps them keep up with market trends. It also attracts various kinds of investments.
The trading market in the Bahrain has a lot of chances for foreign investors. The Bahrain government has made it easier to start a business with the help of Professional Bodies like Key Link Corp . This helps foreigners set up trading companies quickly and easily.
The Bahrain is in a great spot between the East and West. It is a center for trade and offers easy access to many markets. Foreign investors can take advantage of the country’s strong logistics, top-notch infrastructure, and a helpful setting for growing businesses and new ideas.
The Bahrain has a real estate market that is growing. It offers good investment opportunities for people from other countries. A strong economy supports this growth. Rental returns are high. There is also a good chance for property values to increase. All these factors make the Bahrain a great choice for real estate investments.
Foreigners can buy apartment in special places called freehold areas . Here, they have full ownership rights. These areas usually have beautiful Building and wonderful views. They provide a great lifestyle and good chances to make money.
The Bahrain government is always introducing new rules and programs. These changes are meant to help foreigners invest in real estate with less hassle. They also create a clear and safe space for investing.
The Bahrain Cabinet Resolution No. 16 of 2020 is known as the “Positive List.” This list shows the kinds of economic sectors and activities where foreign investors can fully own their businesses, with 100% ownership. It covers many different sectors. This development makes the Bahrain a more attractive place for global investment.
Here are some sectors and small areas where full foreign ownership is allowed:
| Sector | Sub-Sector Examples |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Crop production and plant propagation, Animal production (production of eggs), Aquaculture |
| Energy | Extraction of crude petroleum and natural gas, Technical services for petroleum and natural gas |
| Mining and Quarrying | Support activities for other mining and quarrying, Quarrying of stone, sand, and clay |
| Food Processing | Processing and preserving meat (Workshop, Factory), Fish, crustaceans, and molluscs (Workshop, Factory) |
| Fruit and Vegetable Products | Processing and preserving of fruit and vegetables (Workshop, Factory) |
| Oil and Fat Manufacturing | Manufacture of vegetable, animal, and fish oils and fats (Workshop, Factory) |
| Dairy Products | Manufacture of dairy products (Workshop, Factory) |
| Grain Products | Manufacture of grain mill products, starches, and starch products (Workshop, Factory) |
| Other Food Products | Manufacture of bakery products, Cocoa, chocolate, sugar confectionery, Prepared animal feeds (Workshop, Factory) |
| Beverage Manufacturing | Manufacture of soft drinks, Production of mineral waters and bottled waters (Workshop, Factory) |
| Textiles | Manufacture of textiles (Workshop, Factory), Man-made fibers |
| Apparel | Manufacture of wearing apparel (Workshop, Factory) |
| Leather Products | Manufacture of leather and related products (Workshop, Factory) |
| Wood Products | Manufacture of wood, cork, and articles of straw (excluding furniture) |
| Paper Products | Manufacture of paper and paper products (Workshop, Factory) |
| Printing and Engraving | Other printing and engraving services |
| Petroleum Products | Manufacture of coke oven products, Refined petroleum products |
| Chemical Products | Manufacture of basic chemicals, Fertilizers, Pesticides, Paints, Varnishes, Detergents (Workshop, Factory) |
| Pharmaceuticals | Manufacture of pharmaceutical products (Workshop, Factory) |
| Rubber and Plastics | Manufacture of rubber products, Plastics products, Synthetic rubber (Workshop, Factory) |
| Glass and Fiberglass | Manufacture of glass, fiberglass, and non-metallic mineral products (Workshop, Factory) |
| Metals | Basic iron and steel, Precious and non-ferrous metals (Workshop, Factory), Casting and structural metal products |
| Machinery and Equipment | Manufacture of machinery, Tanks, reservoirs, Containers of metal, Domestic appliances, Electric motors |
| Transport Equipment | Manufacture of motor vehicles, Aircraft, Railway locomotives, Bicycles, Motorcycles, Other transport equipment |
| Furniture | Manufacture of furniture (Workshop, Factory) |
| Jewelry and Crafts | Manufacture of jewelry, bijouterie, Musical instruments, Games and toys (Workshop, Factory) |
| Medical Supplies | Manufacture of medical and dental instruments, Stationery, Handcraft tools (Workshop, Factory) |
| Recycling and Recovery | Materials recovery (Workshop, Factory), Refrigerant reclamation, Oil waste treatment |
| Logistics and Transport | Cargo handling, Warehousing (Food, Pharma, Medical devices), Passenger air and sea transport, Ports and logistics |
| Accommodation | Hotels, Floating tourist hotels, Tourist restaurants, Aircraft and ship catering |
| Creative Industries | Fashion design, Graphic design, Interior decoration, Marketing, Specialized design activities |
| Education | Pre-primary, Vocational training, Higher education, Civil aviation training |
| Consultancy | Engineering consultancy, Renewable energy consultancy, Family counseling, Tourism consultancy |
| Healthcare | Hospitals, Specialized clinics, Dental practice, Radiology centers, Physiotherapy centers, Alternative medicine |
| Arts and Entertainment | Theatrical presentations, Concert halls, Amusement parks, Theme parks, Recreational water transportation facilities |
| Waste Management | Recycling, Oil waste treatment, Materials recovery |
| Telecommunications | Internet exchange, Mobile telecommunications, Fixed telecommunications, VSAT licensing |
| Software and IT Services | Software publishing, Data processing, Hosting, Computer programming |
| Banking and Finance | Retail and wholesale banks, Microfinance, Insurance, Investment funds, Money exchange companies |
| Real Estate | Property management, Leasing, Real estate consultancy |
| Marine Services | Shipbuilding, Boat and yacht parks, Pilotage, Towage, Marine logistics |
| Retail and Trade | In-flight sales, E-commerce, Pharmaceutical trade (importing and non-importing pharmacies) |
| Maintenance and Repair | Fabricated metal products, Machinery, Aircraft engines (line and heavy maintenance), Ships, Electrical equipment |
| Personal Care Services | Hairdressing and other beauty treatment – Men |
The Bahrain Cabinet has made it easier for foreigners. Now, they can learn about and take part in different economic activities in the country. A new “Positive List” is available. This list shows the specific business activities where full foreign ownership is permitted.
This list covers several areas. It encourages foreign investors to use their skills to support the Bahrain’s economy. The “Positive List” provides clear information. This helps foreign investors understand more, make good decisions, and feel sure about doing business in the Bahrain.
The list is checked and updated frequently to match the Bahrain’s changing economic goals. This practice helps bring in investments in important growth areas. It also keeps the country competitive in global business trends.
If you are a foreigner wanting to do things in Bahrain, there are many opportunities for you. You can start a business in trading or look into investing in real estate. Bahrain has several activities that foreigners can get involved in. Knowing the rules and requirements will help you take full advantage of these opportunities. If you have questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us. We are here to help you enjoy your time in Bahrain.
Yes, new federal law changes allow foreigners to fully own commercial companies in some sectors. They do not need a Bahrain national sponsor anymore.
Foreigners need to follow the rules to open a business in the Bahrain. First, they must contact with us so we can have a virtual meeting and provide a free consultation.
Foreigners can join in many popular activities. Some of these activities are in industries. They can work in cold storage and trade special goods like pharmaceutical products. E-commerce and different service businesses are also part of this.
Respecting local customs is very important. In the Bahrain, people are generally open-minded. However, it is a good idea to dress modestly. Paying attention to Islamic traditions is also key. You can enjoy great hospitality, but remember to practice discretion.
Official government websites for each country often have the latest information on what foreigners can do. You can also get helpful details from international business consultancies and legal firms that deal with foreign investment.
