Labour and Legal Affairs Minister, Yousif Khalaf has stated that the Kingdom’s job placement rate stands at 42%, placing it among the highest globally. The figure reflects outcomes achieved through the National Employment Platform.
- Placement Rate Outperforms GCC and Global Benchmarks
- Skills Gap and Employer Conditions Limit Hiring
- Government Pushes Targeted Training and Reskilling
- Bahrainisation Policy Tightens Workforce Localization
- Focus on Inclusion: Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities
- State-Linked Firms Step Up Hiring Efforts
- MPs Raise Concerns Over Job Quality and Governance
- Policy Reform Calls Grow as Labour Market Evolves
- Outlook: Balancing Quantity with Quality Employment
He shared these insights during a lengthy parliamentary debate, where lawmakers questioned employment trends and hiring practices.
Placement Rate Outperforms GCC and Global Benchmarks
Khalaf highlighted that Bahrain’s 42% placement rate sits comfortably within the top global range. International averages typically fall between 35% and 50%. Meanwhile, GCC countries average between 35% and 45%.
Therefore, Bahrain’s performance positions it firmly in the upper tier of employment systems worldwide.
Skills Gap and Employer Conditions Limit Hiring
Despite strong placement figures, structural challenges persist. The minister revealed that around 33,000 vacancies emerge each year. However, only about 14,000 roles get filled.
He attributed this gap mainly to employer expectations. Many companies demand advanced certifications or strong English proficiency. As a result, several jobseekers fail to qualify.
In some cases, roles receive no applications at all. This often happens when job conditions or nature of work discourage candidates.
Government Pushes Targeted Training and Reskilling
To address these mismatches, the ministry has strengthened its training efforts. It works closely with Bahrain Polytechnic and Tamkeen to deliver targeted programmes.
These initiatives focus on English language and technical skills. Importantly, training becomes mandatory when jobseekers lack key competencies.
The government expects up to 3,000 individuals to benefit from structured programmes. These typically run between six and 12 months.
Bahrainisation Policy Tightens Workforce Localization
Khalaf also underscored stricter enforcement of Bahrainisation policies. Some sectors now require up to 50% local workforce participation.
Moreover, companies face penalties of BD500 for each unfilled expatriate permit if they fail to meet targets. This approach aims to boost local hiring and reduce reliance on foreign labour.
Focus on Inclusion: Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities
The government has increased its focus on inclusive employment. In 2025, authorities allocated 1,785 job opportunities to persons with disabilities.
Currently, about 1,300 individuals from this group work in the private sector. Wage support under Tamkeen begins at 80% in the first year and gradually declines over three years.
State-Linked Firms Step Up Hiring Efforts
Government-owned and semi-government entities have also expanded hiring. Since October, these organisations have employed 566 Bahrainis.
This trend reflects stronger alignment between national employment goals and public-sector initiatives.
MPs Raise Concerns Over Job Quality and Governance
However, several lawmakers challenged the ministry’s performance. Abdulnabi Salman and Ali Al Nuaimi raised governance concerns and called for accountability.
Similarly, Abdulhakim Al Sheno stressed that citizens seek dignity through meaningful employment. He argued that jobs must align with qualifications.
Jalila Al Sayed claimed that some employers still prefer expatriates, even at higher costs. Meanwhile, Abdulla Al Romaihi highlighted mismatches between qualifications and job offers.
On the other hand, Ahmed Al Salloom defended the system. He noted that regional pressures slowed processes but expressed confidence in recovery.
Policy Reform Calls Grow as Labour Market Evolves
Khalid Bu Onk urged reforms to address the backlog of unemployed citizens. Lawmakers broadly agreed that structural improvements remain necessary.
In response, Khalaf emphasised long-term outcomes over short-term numbers. He argued that sustainable employment and skill readiness should define success.
Outlook: Balancing Quantity with Quality Employment
Bahrain’s labour market continues to evolve. While placement rates remain strong, challenges around skills, expectations, and job quality persist.
Going forward, the government aims to ensure that Bahrainis remain competitive, trained, and aligned with market needs. Ultimately, the focus will shift from filling vacancies to building long-term careers.
