Bahrain Business License: Requirements and Application Process

Dt Consultancy
Jul 10
2 min read

Updated: Aug 25

Getting your business licensed in Bahrain is a manageable process—let's break it down simply:

Starting or operating a business in Bahrain requires obtaining the correct licenses and approvals from relevant authorities. Through the Sijilat portal, businesses can apply for and manage these licenses digitally, ensuring compliance with sector-specific regulations. Below are the main types of licenses and their requirements.

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1. Commercial License

Issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) for general trading, consultancy, contracting, and service activities. Applicants must have a valid Commercial Registration (CR), business address, and any sector-specific approvals.

2. Industrial License

Required for manufacturing, processing, or industrial production. Applicants must meet factory setup standards, environmental regulations, and safety requirements, with inspections often carried out by MOIC and relevant agencies.

3. Tourism License

Issued by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) for hospitality, travel agencies, event management, and tourism-related services. Approval depends on meeting tourism facility standards and service guidelines.

4. NHRA License

The National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) issues licenses for healthcare facilities, pharmacies, clinics, laboratories, and medical professionals. Compliance with medical standards, staffing qualifications, and equipment requirements is mandatory.

5. Ministry of Health Approvals

Certain food, wellness, and public health-related businesses—such as restaurants, catering, gyms, and spas—require Ministry of Health clearance to ensure hygiene and public health safety.

6. Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) License

Required for financial institutions such as banks, insurance companies, investment firms, and fintech operators. Approval involves rigorous checks on capital adequacy, governance, and operational readiness.

7. Ministry of Education License

Needed for schools, training institutes, nurseries, and educational consultancies. Applicants must meet curriculum, facility, and staffing standards as per MOE regulations.

8. Civil Defence License

Mandatory for most commercial and industrial premises to ensure fire safety compliance. This includes building inspections, fire alarm and suppression systems, and emergency evacuation planning.

9. Ministry of Environment License

Required for businesses whose operations impact the environment, such as manufacturing, waste management, chemical trading, and large construction projects. Approvals focus on environmental protection, waste disposal, emissions control, and compliance with sustainability standards.