Bahrain Moments, 19 February 2026: Bahrain’s Parliament has unanimously approved amendments extending mandatory social‑insurance coverage to freelancers and self‑employed workers.

The amendment updates Article 2 of Bahrain Decree-Law No. 24/1976 promulgating the Social Insurance Law, expanding compulsory coverage beyond traditional employment contracts to include self‑employed individuals and members of the liberal professions. The categories eligible for enrolment will be designated by ministerial decision and require approval from the Social Insurance Organisation’s board, ensuring a controlled regulatory rollout.

Lawmakers confirmed that penalties, funding mechanisms and implementation remain governed by existing statutory structures, noting the measure does not impose additional burdens on the state budget. The law takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.

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