Why register a company in Bahrain
- Business-friendly policies — high rankings on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business index.
- Tax advantages — no income or corporate tax; Tamkeen subsidizes salaries and funds branding, marketing and accounting for startups.
- Access to regional & global markets — close to Saudi Arabia, the UAE and MENA, with the Bahrain–US Free Trade Agreement.
- Stable political & economic environment — a diversified, non-oil-reliant economy.
Main company structures
| Entity | Ownership | Capital | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| WLL (LLC) | 2–50 shareholders, 100% foreign allowed | Flexible | SMEs, trading, consultancy |
| BSC (Public/Closed) | Public or private shareholders | Higher capital | Large firms, IPOs |
| Branch | 100% foreign-owned | No capital | Multinational expansions |
Registration steps
- Prepare documents (IDs, trade name, capital, POA).
- Apply for the initial CR (security clearance + draft CR).
- Secure an office lease and obtain municipal approval.
- Draft & notarize the MOA.
- Deposit capital in a bank and obtain a deposit certificate.
- Receive the ACTIVE CR from MOIC.
- Register with the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (mandatory by law).
- Apply for investor/employee visas via LMRA.
The LevantBMS advantage
23+ years of legal and corporate experience. Our Managing Director brings 35+ years of experience across KSA, the UK and Bahrain, is a British citizen, and is a graduate of three UK universities.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners own 100%?
Yes, for most sectors.
How long does CR approval take?
2–4 weeks for a WLL; longer for regulated businesses.
What are the government fees?
Approximately BD 196.
Do I need a local sponsor?
No — unlike some GCC countries.
What is the VAT threshold?
10% VAT, mandatory above BD 37,500 annually.