Bahrain

WORK CULTURE IN BAHRAIN WORKING HOURS • Sunday–Thursday (Government) • Monday–Friday (International companies; Bahrain follows both patterns) • 48 hours/week maximum (private sector) • Some companies follow a 5-day 40-hour week LIBERAL ATMOSPHERE Bahrain is notably more socially liberal than other GCC states: • Alcohol is legal and available at licensed hotels and restaurants • Cinemas, concerts, entertainment venues • Mixed-gender environments more common • Women in senior positions is common • Foreign workers feel more comfortable socially RAMADAN • Working hours reduced • Respectful behavior expected in public during fasting hours • Iftar is a social event — you'll likely be invited by Bahraini colleagues BUSINESS CULTURE • Relationships matter, but business can move faster than in other Gulf states • English is widely used in business • International companies operate very similarly to their home countries • Many Western-trained Bahrainis in management • Punctuality is respected DRESS CODE • Office: Smart casual to formal • Public: Moderate; more relaxed than Saudi or Kuwait • Bahrain Fort, souks: Conservative dress appreciated but not mandatory MULTICULTURAL OFFICES Many of Bahrain's financial institutions (banks, insurance) have staff from Europe, USA, Asia, and Arab countries. A truly international work environment.