New Year's Day in Bahrain

Official holiday and paid leave

Bahrain’s Cabinet Decision No. 1 of 2013 lists the first day of the Gregorian year, 1 January, as an official holiday for private-sector workers, with full pay. The Labour Law also grants workers paid leave on official holidays designated by Cabinet decision. If work requirements mean an employee works on the holiday, the Labour Law provides for the day’s wage plus additional pay equal to 150% of that wage, or another day off, at the worker’s choice.[1][2]

The 2013 decision provides another day when a listed holiday falls on a Friday or another official holiday. Check an official announcement for the replacement date in a particular year.[1]

What the day marks

The Bahrain National Portal identifies New Year as 1 January in its official holidays list. The occasion marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year.[3]

Planning around the holiday

Shopping-centre hours vary, and most malls generally operate seven days a week. For offices, banks, shops and transport, check directly with the provider for holiday hours before travelling.[3]