Hiring A Driver In Bahrain: A Guide

Hiring a driver in Bahrain can be a straightforward process, but there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, it's important to determine the type of driver you need, such as a light driver, heavy driver, or delivery driver. Additionally, most jobs require a valid driver's license and some experience. Salary expectations vary depending on the role, with drivers in Bahrain typically earning around 850 BHD per month. When hiring a driver, you may also need to sponsor their work visa and justify why a Bahraini driver could not fulfil the role.

Average salary expectations for drivers in Bahrain

When hiring a driver in Bahrain, it is important to consider the salary expectations of drivers. The salary offered needs to be competitive to attract the right talent and should take into account factors such as experience, skills, and gender.

On average, drivers in Bahrain can expect to earn around 450 BHD per month. However, salaries can range from as low as 240 BHD to as high as 690 BHD or even 1,290 BHD per month. The variation in salaries is largely dependent on experience. Drivers with less than two years of experience can expect to earn around 280 BHD per month, while those with over twenty years of experience can earn up to 650 BHD per month. Additionally, drivers with a bachelor's degree can expect to earn higher salaries, with an average of 670 BHD per month.

The type of driving job also impacts the salary. For example, delivery drivers typically start with a salary of around 470 BHD per month. Heavy drivers, crane operators, or forklift operators can expect a salary range of 140-150 BHD per month. Local delivery drivers can earn up to 300 BHD per month, while bus drivers can expect a salary of 220 BHD plus accommodation and transportation benefits.

It is worth noting that salaries in Bahrain are typically higher than in other countries, and the country does not impose a personal income tax, making it an attractive destination for expatriates. When determining salary expectations, it is essential to consider the cost of living in Bahrain, as well as the specific requirements and responsibilities of the driving role.

How to obtain a work visa for your driver

To obtain a work visa for your driver in Bahrain, you will need to follow these steps:

Firstly, as an employer, you must sponsor your employee and apply for their work visa. The number of visas your company can sponsor depends on the physical size of your office and the international quotas set by national regulations.

You will then need to gather the necessary documents for the application. These include:

• A completed visa application form.
• The employee's passport, which must be valid for at least six months but ideally two years, and include specific details such as the employee's first name and father or family name.
• An employment contract in Arabic or bilingual, including the company's name and commercial registration number, contract duration, employee's name, birth date, and nationality, occupation, salary, and notice periods.
• A health record from an authorized clinic.
• Academic or professional qualifications for the position.

Once you have gathered the required documents, you can submit the application to the Bahrain Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). The application process typically takes around five business days but can sometimes take up to two weeks.

After receiving approval for the new work permit, you will need to pay the fees via the Expat Management System (EMS) or at one of the accredited banks. Finally, print the work permit from the EMS system.

If your driver is already in Bahrain, you will need to print the Residence Permit through the Kingdom of Bahrain's National Portal. If they are outside of Bahrain, you will need to wait for them to arrive before printing the Residence Permit.

Requirements for a valid driver's license in Bahrain

To hire a driver in Bahrain, you must ensure that the applicant meets the requirements for a valid driver's license. Here are the key requirements and steps to obtain a driver's license in Bahrain:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to be eligible for a driver's license in Bahrain.
• Medical and Eye Examination: Candidates are required to undergo a medical test and an eye exam to ensure they are physically fit to drive.
• Instructional Classes: After passing the medical and eye examinations, applicants need to attend instructional classes to learn about driving rules and regulations.
• Practical Driving Test: The final step is to pass a practical driving test to demonstrate their driving skills and knowledge of road rules.
• Application Form and Documents: Applicants need to fill out an application form, available at the Traffic Directorate. They must also provide copies of their passports (for expatriates), CPR (Bahraini identity document), and their national driver's license.
• Fees: Obtaining a driver's license in Bahrain incurs fees ranging from 35BD to 40BD (Bahraini Dinar).

Additional Requirements for Foreign Visitors:

Foreign visitors who wish to drive in Bahrain need to have a valid driver's license from their country of residence, as well as an International Driving License. They are permitted to drive with the International Driving License for up to three months.

Important Driving Reminders in Bahrain:

• All vehicles must be legally registered and insured.
• Drivers must carry their driver's licenses at all times when driving.
• Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory for both the driver and front-seat passengers.
• The permitted blood alcohol level for driving is 0.0%.
• Using cell phones while driving is prohibited, except for hands-free systems.
• Eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed while driving.
• The speed limit in towns is 60 km/h (37 mph), 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph) on open roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways.
• Turning right at a red traffic light is not permitted.

How to find a driver with specific experience

How to hire a driver with specific experience in Bahrain

When looking to hire a driver with specific experience in Bahrain, there are several factors to consider and steps to follow to ensure you find the right candidate. Here is a guide to help you through the process:

• Determine your requirements: Start by outlining the specific skills, qualifications, and experience you require for the role. For instance, do you need a driver with experience in a particular industry, such as hospitality or construction? Do they need to have a valid Bahraini driving license or knowledge of local routes? Being clear about your requirements will help you attract candidates with the right skill set.
• Create a job description: Once you have defined your requirements, create a detailed job description outlining the role's responsibilities, working hours, salary, and any benefits you are offering. Be sure to mention any specific experience or qualifications that are essential for the role, such as a minimum number of years of driving experience or a valid heavy driver's license.
• Advertise the role: There are several platforms you can use to advertise driver jobs in Bahrain, including online job boards and recruitment agencies. Popular websites for job postings in Bahrain include Tanqeeb, Jooble, and Quora. Make sure your job title is clear and includes the term "driver" to make it easy for candidates with relevant experience to find your listing.
• Review applications: As you receive applications, carefully review each candidate's resume and cover letter to assess their skills, experience, and qualifications. Look for applicants who meet your essential criteria and demonstrate relevant experience. If you are seeking a driver for a specific industry, such as hospitality, prioritize candidates with experience in that field.
• Interview shortlisted candidates: Create a list of interview questions that will help you further assess the candidates' skills, experience, and suitability for the role. Ask about their previous work experience, including the types of vehicles they have driven and the duties they performed. If relevant to the role, inquire about their customer service skills, safety record, and knowledge of local areas.
• Check references: Before making your final decision, be sure to contact the references provided by your preferred candidate. Speaking with their previous employers or colleagues will help you verify their work experience, skills, and reliability.
• Make your offer: Once you have found the right candidate, extend a formal job offer. In Bahrain, drivers typically earn between 450 BHD and 1,290 BHD per month, depending on their experience and the specific role. Be prepared to negotiate the terms of employment, including salary and benefits, to secure your preferred candidate.
• Visa and work permit: Don't forget that to work as a driver in Bahrain, the candidate will need a sponsoring employer who will apply for a work visa on their behalf. As an employer, you will also need to justify why you were unable to source the required skills from the existing Bahraini workforce.

By following these steps and clearly outlining your requirements, you can effectively find and hire a driver with specific experience in Bahrain.

The benefits of hiring an expat driver in Bahrain

Hiring an expat driver in Bahrain comes with several advantages, from accessing a wider talent pool to benefiting from their specialised skills and global perspective. Here are some key benefits of hiring an expat driver:

Diverse Talent Pool

By hiring expatriates, employers tap into a diverse talent pool, gaining access to skilled professionals from various parts of the world. This diversity brings a range of experiences and perspectives that can enrich the overall talent within Bahrain's job market. Expatriates often possess specialised skills and expertise that may be scarce or in high demand within the country.

Specialised Skills and Expertise

Expatriate drivers in Bahrain may have specialised skills and expertise in areas such as defensive driving, route planning, vehicle maintenance, and customer service. They can fill skill gaps and boost sectors that require specific technical knowledge, such as logistics, tourism, or executive transportation.

Global Perspective and Innovation

The presence of expatriate drivers infuses a global perspective into the local job market. Their diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences spark innovation and creativity, leading to the adoption of best practices from around the world. Expatriates are known for their flexibility and adaptability, making them valuable assets in a dynamic and evolving job market.

Social and Cultural Exchange

Hiring expat drivers facilitates a social and cultural exchange, fostering diversity and enriching Bahraini society with various traditions, cuisines, and perspectives. This exchange of ideas and approaches to work enhances innovation and creativity within the transportation industry and beyond.

Workforce Diversity and Problem-Solving

Workforce diversity, brought about by hiring expat drivers, fosters a more inclusive and dynamic work environment, promoting tolerance and understanding among employees. Diverse teams approach problem-solving from different angles, resulting in comprehensive and effective solutions. The collaboration between locals and expatriates with unique backgrounds and skill sets enhances decision-making and organisational performance.

Mentorship and Local Talent Support

Expatriate drivers can contribute to the development of local talent through mentorship and training programs. They can guide and nurture aspiring Bahraini drivers, accelerating the development of necessary skills and boosting their confidence. By sharing their advanced skills and expertise, expatriates can uplift local talent, making them more competitive in the job market.

Frequently asked questions