Bahrain Parliament Votes to Extend Social Insurance to Freelancers

In a landmark move, Bahrain’s Parliament has unanimously approved a proposal to bring freelancers and self-employed workers under the country’s mandatory social insurance system. The decision was passed on Tuesday, widening protections beyond traditional employment contracts.

What’s Changing

The amendment updates Article (2) of the Social Insurance Law, extending coverage to self-employed professionals and members of the liberal professions.

The new coverage will apply to groups designated by the competent minister and approved by the Social Insurance Organisation’s board. This ensures that only eligible categories join under a controlled rollout.

Who Benefits

Lawmakers highlighted small business owners, artisans, fishermen, and driving instructors as primary beneficiaries.
MP Maryam Al Sayegh, one of five parliamentarians behind the proposal, said the change aims to provide a “future protection umbrella” for workers who have long supported the economy but often lack retirement benefits.

She noted many freelancers face “psychological and financial pressure” when reaching retirement age without insurance or pension coverage.

Funding and Implementation

The law does not add any burden to the state budget. Instead, it uses existing surpluses from citizens’ contributions to fund the new coverage.

The measure consists of two articles: one updating Article (2) to include self-employed workers, and another assigning implementation to the Prime Minister and relevant ministers. The law takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.

Looking Ahead

Officials are also exploring a separate fund to support those over 60 who have no pension coverage, potentially redirecting unemployment insurance surpluses to help the most vulnerable self-employed groups.

Bahrain’s step signals growing recognition of freelancers and independent workers as an essential part of the economy, now protected under the social insurance system.