In Bahrain, a mainland company is the one that’s registered and operates within Bahrain itself, not in free zones or special economic areas. These companies follow Bahraini government laws and rules and can do business both in Bahrain and internationally. They usually need different licenses and permits depending on what they do. Mainland companies do all sorts of things like production, offering services, trading, and more.
Who’s in Charge?
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism (MOICT) regulates these mainland companies.
Why Set Up a Company in Bahrain Mainland?
Here are some reasons:
- You can own your business 100% for most activities.
- You don’t need a lot of money to start.
- Bahrain is well connected to other places like Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
- You can benefit from Bahrain’s agreements on not taxing things twice.
- No taxes on personal income or company profits.
- You can grow your business and work in other Gulf countries.
- You can bring in equipment and materials without paying taxes.
- No limits on taking out your money or changing it to other currencies.
Different Kinds of Companies in Bahrain Mainland
Here are the most common types:
- Limited Liability Company (WLL).
- Public Bahrain Shareholding Company (B.S.C.).
- Closed Bahrain Shareholding Company (B.S.C.).
- Limited by Shares Company.
- Limited Partnership Company.
- Branch of a Foreign Company
What Licenses Are Needed to Operate in Bahrain Mainland?
Depends on what you do:
- Commercial License: For buying and selling stuff.
- Professional License: If you’re a professional like a doctor or lawyer.
- Industrial License: For making things.
- Tourism License: For tourism businesses like hotels or travel agencies.
- Health License: For healthcare businesses like clinics or pharmacies.
- Food License: For food places like restaurants or bakeries.
- Construction License: For building stuff.
- Financial Services License: For banks, insurance, or investments.
- Educational License: For schools or colleges.
- Media License: For media businesses like publishing or advertising.
What Papers Are Required to Set Up a Bahrain Mainland Company?
You’ll need to present such documents:
- Copies of IDs for shareholders, managers, and directors.
- A business plan.
- Papers about your company’s goals and rules.
- Proof of where your business will be.
- A paper saying the local sponsor is okay with you starting your business.
- A document that shows you’ve picked a name for your business.
- A copy of the local partner’s ID.
- PoA (if applicable).
How to Start a Mainland Company in Bahrain?
Here’s a general plan:
- Figure out what your business will do and make sure it’s okay by Bahrain’s rules.
- Decide how your company will be set up.
- Pick a name for your company and make sure it follows the government’s rules.
- Write down what your company will do and how it’ll work.
- Get the go-ahead and licenses you need from the government.
- Sign up for taxes and stuff with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR).
- Set up a bank account for your company so you can do business.
Consulting with the right government offices or a legal expert is crucial. They can help you figure out exactly what kind of license you need for your business and make sure you’re following all the local rules. So, do not hesitate to contact us!
