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1 day ago
The Labour Ministry has confirmed that its hiring system allows jobseekers to specify their sub-specialisations alongside their main qualifications, allowing employers to request both when posting vacancies. In a written response to Parliament, the ministry stated that most administrative roles are open to applicants from a range of academic backgrounds and that work history is also considered. The ministry explained that its online recruitment system enables employers to specify sub- specialisations, so jobseekers can apply accordingly. “Employers are not restricted from requesting specific sub-specialisations,” it said. “For many roles, particularly in administrative fields, candidates from various disciplines are eligible. However, regulated professions such as healthcare, law, engineering, and teaching must meet licensing requirements.” Work history While experience is not mandatory for most vacancies, the ministry noted that employers can review a candidate’s work history through Social Insurance Organisation records and uploaded CVs. It added that the system is regularly updated to include new degrees and specialisations, so employers can request them in job postings. The ministry outlined its efforts to train and prepare Bahrainis for job market demands. Skills and experience Several programmes, in partnership with Tamkeen, aim to equip jobseekers with practical skills and experience. A Bahrain Polytechnic retraining […]
1 day ago
A BD322 million building drive is set to bring 4,321 homes across Bahrain, with the largest project, a 1,269-unit expansion in Sitra, scheduled for completion in early 2028. Housing and Urban Planning Minister, Her Excellency Amna Al Rumaihi, provided an update on both finished and ongoing works, detailing projects in Madinat Salman, Hidd, and Khalifa City. Al Rumaihi confirmed that 303 houses and 1,362 flats have been handed over in Madinat Salman, alongside 1,077 units in Sitra. Also read: Higher Excise Taxes On Tobacco, Soft Drinks, And Energy Drinks In New Budget
1 day ago
Excise taxes on tobacco, soft drinks, and energy drinks will increase as part of efforts to promote public health and curb the consumption of harmful products, while mandatory health insurance for expatriates and visitors will be introduced. The 2025-2026 state budget also includes record spending on infrastructure and a plan to create 25,000 jobs for Bahrainis each year. At a joint meeting Sunday, ministers and lawmakers reviewed the budget, going over financial plans, proposed projects, and economic measures. The discussions, which involved both the Council of Representatives and the Shura Council, were led by Speaker Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, and Finance Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa. The government has set aside BHD 364 million for infrastructure projects, the largest allocation for public works in recent budget cycles, covering roads, utilities, and services. A sewerage fee will be introduced, though first-time homeowners will be exempt under existing laws. Healthcare will receive BHD 688 million, with the ‘Choose Your Doctor’ programme-already rolled out in 20 health centres, expanding to seven more. Employment plans focus on securing 25,000 jobs for Bahrainis each year, including 8,000 positions for recent graduates. The Labour Fund (Tamkeen) will […]
1 day ago
The Ministry of Tourism started penalizing 79 hospitality facilities in Makkah and Madinah for resuming operations without obtaining the necessary licenses following the issuance of closure orders. It has slapped total fines amounting to SR 500,000 on 58 hospitality facilities in Makkah and 21 in Madinah for the violations during the first two weeks of Ramadan. The ministry confirmed that it is continuing to implement statutory penalties against facilities violating the tourism law and regulations. These penalties can range from a fine of SR1 million, closure, or both, particularly in cases of unlicensed operation. The ministry explained that a comprehensive survey of all closed hospitality facilities has been conducted to ensure their compliance with the closure orders issued against them. It noted that the closure order is enforced immediately upon its issuance by the competent committee, in coordination with the regional emirates and security authorities, to ensure immediate evacuation and daily inspection of closed facilities. The ministry stressed the need for all tourist hospitality facilities to comply with the Tourism Law and its regulations and obtain the necessary licenses prior to operation. It emphasized that the regulations impose standards that ensure improved quality of services provided and enhance the safety […]
2 days ago
Jetour Bahrain announced the launch of its highly anticipated T1, the newest addition to its T-Series of adventure SUVs, at an event held at The Ritz-Carlton. The Jetour T1, engineered for both city driving and off-road adventures, offers a unique blend of power, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Powered by a 2.0TGDI engine delivering 187 kW and featuring seven driving modes, the T1 is built to handle diverse terrains. Its rugged design complements a spacious and modern interior, equipped with advanced connectivity features. “The T1’s launch marks a new era for adventure SUVs in Bahrain” said Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Michael Brightmore. “With its powerful performance and advanced features, the T1 is set to redefine the segment and meet the growing demand for versatile SUVs in the region.” The launch event also highlighted other 2025 Jetour models, including the Dashing, T2, and X90 Plus, along with a customized T2 by Kanoo Performance. Customers purchasing the Jetour T1 this Ramadan will gain an exceptional 10-year or 1 million kilometer manufacturer warranty. This exclusive offer ensures unparalleled peace of mind and showcases the unique value Jetour delivers. For more information, visit www.jetourbahrain.com or contact Jetour Bahrain at 17500900.
2 days ago
Saudi Arabia has allowed foreigners to temporarily own pharmacies, reversing an earlier stipulation limiting ownership to Saudi nationals, according to a local newspaper. Al Yaum reported that an official directive has been issued allowing non-Saudis to own pharmacies and herbal preparation centres until an integrated health system comes into effect. The move was taken in response to a request from the Ministry of Health, the report said. The decision stipulates that the activities listed in a related system issued in 1995 are permitted on a temporary basis without the owner being required to hold Saudi citizenship. Article 3 of that system originally stipulated that ownership of pharmacies, herbal preparation facilities, or pharmaceutical consultation centres are restricted to Saudis. Under the same system, the owner or one of the partners was also required to be a pharmacist licensed to practise the profession. The minister of health was authorized to exempt the nationality requirement if there are not enough Saudi pharmacists, provided that the pharmacy, or the facility in the field meets the conditions specified in the relevant regulations. There was no immediate comment from health authorities on the report.
3 days ago
The General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged the public to exercise caution, remain in safe areas, and avoid valleys and flood-prone locations as heavy thunderstorms continue to affect most regions of Saudi Arabia until next Monday. The directorate also emphasized the importance of adhering to official safety instructions issued through various media and social platforms. According to forecasts, the Makkah region will experience moderate to heavy rainfall, leading to flash floods, hailstorms, and strong downdrafts causing dust and sandstorms. The affected areas include Ranyah, Turubah, Al-Muwayh, and Al-Khurmah, while Taif, Maysan, Adham, and Al-Ardiyat will see light to moderate rain. Light showers are expected in Makkah, Al-Jumum, and Al-Kamil. The Riyadh region is also set to face moderate to heavy rainfall, potentially causing flash floods, hail, and strong winds. The most affected areas include Afif, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Quwaiyah, Al-Rayn, Shaqra, Al-Ghat, Marat, Al-Zulfi, Al-Majma’ah, Thadiq, and Huraymila. Moderate rainfall is expected in Riyadh city, Diriyah, Durma, Al-Muzahimiyah, Rumah, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Hariq, and Hotat Bani Tamim, while Wadi Al-Dawasir, Al-Sulayyil, and Al-Aflaj will experience light to moderate showers. The Civil Defense added that Madinah, Asir, Hail, and Qassim will see moderate to heavy rain, while the Eastern Province will experience moderate […]
3 days ago
The Ministry of Interior conducted inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia between March 6 and March 12 to ensure compliance with residency, labour, and border security laws. A total of 23,865 violations were recorded, including 16,644 related to residency, 3,896 to border security, and 3,325 to labour laws. Authorities intercepted 1,432 individuals attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally, of whom 29% were Yemenis, 67% Ethiopians, and 4% from other nationalities. Additionally, 97 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally. Thirteen individuals involved in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators were also arrested. Currently, 39,976 expatriates (36,307 men and 3,669 women) are undergoing procedures for enforcement of regulations. Of these, 32,825 have been detained and instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documentation, 2,311 have been directed to arrange their departures, and 10,331 have been repatriated. The Ministry of Interior warned that facilitating illegal entry, transporting, sheltering, or providing assistance to violators could result in penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to SAR 1 million. Vehicles used for transport and properties used for shelter may also be confiscated. The ministry emphasized that such acts are considered major crimes […]
3 days ago
A Kuwaiti teacher has been sentenced to seven years in prison after the Court of Cassation upheld a conviction for forging medical leave documents over an eight-year period and unlawfully collecting tens of thousands of dinars in salaries. In addition to the prison term, the court ordered the teacher to pay a fine of 100,000 Kuwaiti dinars (approximately $325,000) and to repay double the amount she had unlawfully received. According to case records, the teacher, employed by the Ministry of Education from February 27, 2017, to May 5, 2022, submitted 17 falsified medical recommendations falsely attributed to the General Medical Council at the Ministry of Health. These documents granted her exceptional leave, enabling her to continue drawing a salary despite being absent from work. Authorities said the scheme allowed the teacher to illegally obtain 68,000 dinars in salary payments, which she used for personal gain. Investigators found that she colluded with an unidentified accomplice, and that the scheme was carried out with the alleged assistance of public employees within her employing agency. The court convicted her of forgery of official documents and fraudulent acquisition of government funds.
3 days ago
Demand is surging in Saudi Arabia for plastic and paper items associated with food gatherings in Saudi Arabia during the current Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan, which began this year on March 1, is noted for family gatherings and indulgent meals after a day-long fast. Sales of items such as cups, plates and spoons have seen an increase in the run-up and during the Ramadan season from restaurants and families, who use them extensively during the holy month. The upsurge has prompted some shop owners to take advantage and hike up prices. Since the last week of Shaaban, the lunar Islamic month preceding Ramadan, prices have gone up by SR4 for paper cups. Prices of plastic utensils, mainly plates, vary according to size, but generally they have doubled to reach SR10 apiece for large plates, the Saudi newspaper Al Watan reported. Mohammed Al Harabi, a vendor of paper products, said that since the first day of Ramadan, the demand for his items has increased. These items are so widely used at family gatherings during Ramadan that their prices have gone up. “They are the preferred choice for women in Ramadan,” Al Harbi said. He also cited a rise in […]
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