Bahrain – Complementary and Alternative Medicine

What types of complementary and alternative medicine are available in Bahrain?

Bahrain provides access to a remarkably diverse range of CAM therapies, a reflection of both its culturally mixed expatriate community and the country’s geographic and historical connections to traditional healing practices across Asia and the broader Middle East. The NHRA has formally recognised acupuncture, Ayurveda, massage therapy, chiropractic, herbal therapy, homeopathy, naturopathy, osteopathy, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), biodynamic craniosacral therapy, cupping therapy, reflexology, and Unani medicine as legitimate healthcare disciplines.

Additional specialties have also received approval on the basis of World Health Organisation guidelines affirming their beneficial effects. These include aromatherapy, Bach flower remedies, colon therapy, chelation therapy, craniosacral therapy, colon hydrotherapy, and hydrotherapy. The breadth of Bahrain’s formally sanctioned CAM disciplines exceeds what is typically regulated in most other nations.

Musculoskeletal therapies occupy a particularly prominent position in Bahrain’s CAM landscape. Since 2013, the country’s first NHRA-licensed alternative medicine centre has been in operation, founded with the goal of expanding healthcare options beyond conventional hospitals and clinics. Its services include osteopathy, physiotherapy, craniosacral therapy, chiropractic, and therapeutic massage. Chiropractic and osteopathy, in particular, are more readily accessible in Bahrain than in several neighbouring Gulf states.

Mind-body disciplines such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness are also woven into Bahrain’s wellness offering, primarily through private studios and dedicated wellness centres. While not all of these practices fall within the scope of NHRA clinical licensing, they contribute to a growing holistic health sector available to residents. Reiki, biofeedback, and hypnotherapy are less prominently advertised but do have practitioners, especially within Manama.

The broader global shift towards CAM is increasingly apparent in Bahrain. As lifestyle-related conditions including diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease become more widespread, growing numbers of residents are turning to alternative therapies to complement their conventional medical care. Integrative clinics serving this demand have steadily multiplied across the capital.

Is complementary and alternative medicine regulated in Bahrain?

Bahrain has developed one of the more comprehensive CAM regulatory frameworks found anywhere in the Gulf. In 2016, the government laid down a legal foundation for overseeing complementary and alternative medicine, making a deliberate policy decision to bring the sector out of informal practice and into a properly supervised healthcare environment. This is enshrined in Ministerial Resolution No. 33 of 2016, which governs the practice of alternative and complementary medicine disciplines.

The NHRA has been the driving force behind implementing this framework. Through rigorous licensing requirements, verification of professional qualifications, and scheduled facility inspections, the authority holds CAM providers to the same safety and quality benchmarks applied across the wider healthcare sector. In this sense, Bahrain’s approach bears closer resemblance to the statutory regulation seen in countries such as the UK — where bodies including the General Chiropractic Council and General Osteopathic Council carry legal authority — than to the voluntary self-regulatory models prevalent in many other jurisdictions.

Therapies such as hijama, acupuncture, Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic, homeopathy, and therapeutic massage are now subject to the same regulatory discipline as other health services under NHRA supervision. This means practitioners must be formally licensed and their premises must be inspected and approved before services can be offered.

All professionals are required to submit a complete licence application before being permitted to sit the licensure examination. Non-Bahraini CAM practitioners must have accumulated at least two years of experience following their academic qualification. The licensing process requires candidates to pass a Prometric examination; these examinations are conducted online and all associated fees must be paid directly to the Prometric Company. Once a candidate has successfully passed, the outcome is forwarded to the NHRA for the licensing process to be finalised.

All CAM professionals applying for a licence must hold academic qualifications certified by the relevant official authorities, documentation of practical training completed after graduation, a valid first aid certificate, and a medical fitness certificate issued by the appropriate medical committee.

Not every wellness service falls under the same level of regulatory scrutiny, however. Practices such as yoga instruction, general meditation classes, and certain energy-based therapies may be delivered in non-clinical settings such as gyms or spas without the same requirements that apply to clinical CAM practitioners. Challenges persist in tackling misinformation and deterring unlicensed practice. Expats are strongly advised to confirm that any CAM practitioner holds a valid NHRA licence before commencing any course of treatment.

For current licensing requirements and to verify the registration of practitioners, visit the NHRA official website. Regulatory requirements are subject to change, so always consult the NHRA directly for the most current information.

Is CAM covered by health insurance or the public healthcare system in Bahrain?

Bahrain has maintained a universal healthcare system since 1960. Government-provided medical care is free of charge to Bahraini nationals and available at subsidised rates to non-Bahrainis at public facilities. However, this public system is centred on conventional medicine, and CAM therapies are not routinely offered through government hospitals or health centres.

Health Insurance Law No. 23 of 2018, which came into effect on 1 December 2018, established the NHRA as the supervisory body for a dedicated health insurance fund operating in coordination with the Supreme Council of Health. This national insurance framework does not, as a general rule, extend to CAM treatments as a standard benefit.

Coverage for CAM under private health insurance in Bahrain differs considerably between insurers and plan tiers. Certain premium international health insurance policies — widely favoured by expatriates — may provide limited coverage for therapies such as chiropractic, osteopathy, physiotherapy, or acupuncture, typically subject to conditions such as a specialist referral, an annual benefit cap, or a stipulation that the treating provider holds an NHRA licence. Basic employer-sponsored plans ordinarily do not include CAM coverage. As of 2025, there is no universal requirement compelling private insurers to cover CAM therapies.

If access to CAM coverage is a priority for you, examine your policy documents carefully before making a commitment, and ask your insurer directly which therapies are included, whether referrals are a prerequisite, and what annual limits apply. Monitor the NHRA website and the Ministry of Health for updates to the national health insurance benefit package, as this framework continues to evolve.

How much does complementary and alternative medicine cost in Bahrain?

The cost of CAM consultations and treatments in Bahrain fluctuates considerably depending on the therapy in question, the practitioner’s level of qualification, the clinic’s location, and whether the appointment is an initial assessment or a follow-up visit. As is typical throughout the Gulf region, private healthcare — CAM included — tends to carry a higher price tag than government-subsidised services.

As a general indication (as of 2024–2025, drawing on clinic information available in Bahrain), an initial chiropractic or osteopathy consultation typically falls in the range of BHD 20 to BHD 40 (approximately USD 53–106), with follow-up appointments priced somewhat lower. Acupuncture sessions generally cost in a comparable bracket of BHD 15–35 per visit. Therapeutic massage, depending on the duration and technique involved, is commonly priced between BHD 15 and BHD 30. Ayurveda consultations and treatment programmes can vary more substantially and are sometimes offered as package arrangements rather than priced per individual session. These figures are provided as a guide only — always confirm current pricing directly with the clinic or practitioner before booking.

Hijama (cupping therapy), as a well-established and widely practised tradition in Bahrain, tends to be one of the more affordable CAM options, with some clinics offering sessions at approximately BHD 10–20. Naturopathy and homeopathy initial consultations may be more time-intensive and can therefore carry higher fees. Always clarify pricing, any available package structures, and additional costs such as herbal remedies or supplements before proceeding.

For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, contact practitioners or clinics directly, or reach out to the NHRA for a list of licensed providers.

How do I find a qualified CAM practitioner in Bahrain?

The most dependable starting point is the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA), which retains oversight of all licensed CAM practitioners and facilities throughout Bahrain. Members of the public can access the Adweya system, and the NHRA reviews applications to confirm compliance with all relevant health, safety, and regulatory standards. Directly contacting the NHRA to verify a practitioner’s licence status is strongly encouraged.

When evaluating potential practitioners, prioritise those who clearly display their NHRA licence number and whose qualifications can be independently verified. NHRA-licensed practitioners — such as biodynamic craniosacral therapists — will generally identify themselves as such, and reputable clinics will feature their practitioners’ credentials prominently. Established alternative medicine centres in Bahrain that are proud of their regulatory standing will be transparent about their NHRA-licensed status.

Your GP or conventional doctor is another worthwhile resource. Bahrain’s policy framework actively encourages coordination between patients, conventional physicians, and licensed alternative practitioners, which means many mainstream clinics are familiar with reputable local CAM providers and may be in a position to suggest a referral or recommendation.

Expat community networks and forums focused on Bahrain — including those accessible through Internations or local Facebook groups — can also yield peer recommendations, though these should always be cross-referenced against NHRA licensing records.

Red flags to watch for:

• Practitioners who are unable to supply an NHRA licence number or decline to present their credentials
• Clinics offering therapies not included on Bahrain’s approved list, or making curative claims regarding serious medical conditions
• Unsolicited offers or heavily discounted package deals with no transparent refund policy
• Herbal or supplement products sold without appropriate labelling or regulatory approval from the NHRA Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Products Regulation section
• Any practitioner who actively discourages you from seeking conventional medical advice

Challenges continue in Bahrain around tackling misinformation and curbing unlicensed practice; however, the regulatory framework offers a solid foundation for addressing these ongoing concerns.

Are there traditional or indigenous medicine systems practised in Bahrain?

Alternative healthcare is far from a new concept in Bahraini society. Traditional practices such as hijama (cupping) and the use of herbal remedies have long formed part of community health culture. These are not borrowed Western therapies but deeply rooted indigenous practices drawing from Islamic medicine and the pre-modern healing traditions of the Gulf.

Hijama — encompassing both wet and dry cupping — carries particular cultural and religious weight in Bahrain and throughout the wider Muslim world. It is widely practised, broadly accepted, and — unlike in many Western countries where it occupies a marginal place in mainstream health culture — is regarded as an integral part of the healthcare landscape. The NHRA has issued clear guidelines governing the sale, provision, and promotion of alternative medicine services and practices, including cupping (hijama). Offering hijama commercially without an NHRA licence is prohibited.

Herbal medicine, incorporating locally and regionally sourced plants and remedies, is also common practice. However, the sale and prescribing of herbal products is subject to regulation. The NHRA board issued four directives to govern the sale and prescription of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (TCAM) products, including herbal preparations, in response to concerns over the quality and credibility of certain operators in the market.

Unani medicine — the Greco-Arabic medical system that spread through Persia and into South Asia — appears on the NHRA’s approved therapy list, reflecting Bahrain’s longstanding demographic and historical ties with the South Asian subcontinent. Ayurveda similarly benefits from the large South Asian expatriate community and has a visible practitioner presence across the country.

What has shifted considerably in recent years is the manner in which these practices are governed and professionalised. Traditional healers who previously operated informally are now obliged to satisfy the same licensing and qualification standards as other CAM providers, introducing a meaningful layer of consumer protection to therapies that had previously operated without oversight.

What should expats know about using CAM alongside conventional medicine in Bahrain?

Official government policy frames alternative healthcare as a complement to modern medicine rather than an alternative to it. Conventional medical treatment remains the cornerstone of Bahrain’s healthcare system, with alternative therapies encouraged as supportive options where clinically appropriate. This stance shapes how both CAM practitioners and conventional doctors approach the subject.

Many conventional physicians in Bahrain — particularly those working in private hospitals and multi-specialty clinics — have a working familiarity with CAM and can engage with patients on its potential benefits and risks in the context of their broader care. The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) Bahrain has made moves towards incorporating CAM awareness into its medical education curriculum, signalling that complementary therapies are being acknowledged within formal medical training in the country. Integrative health facilities — combining physiotherapy, chiropractic, and rehabilitation services under a single roof — also provide environments in which conventional and complementary approaches can be actively coordinated.

Among the most critical safety considerations when combining CAM with conventional medicine is the risk of herb-drug interactions. Bahraini medical discussions have underscored the considerable danger posed by patients self-medicating with herbal products while simultaneously taking prescribed medications. If you are on any prescribed treatment, disclose all supplements, herbal preparations, and alternative therapies to both your treating doctor and your CAM practitioner, enabling both parties to identify potential interactions.

When purchasing herbal or natural health products in Bahrain, ensure they carry proper labelling and have been approved through the NHRA’s Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Products Regulation section. The NHRA works to ensure, in line with current medical and scientific knowledge, the quality, safety, and efficacy of pharmaceutical and health products, including medicines. Products sold outside licensed pharmacies or lacking appropriate labelling should be approached with considerable caution.

The guiding principles of Bahrain’s healthcare policy — evidence-based practice, transparency, and informed patient choice — are designed to safeguard patients while honouring both cultural traditions and personal preferences. Expats are encouraged to view CAM as one element within a broader healthcare strategy, to keep their primary care physician informed of any complementary treatments they are pursuing, and to consult the Ministry of Health or NHRA for guidance on specific therapies or products.

Bahrain has also invested in capacity-building and international collaboration, engaging with countries that have well-established traditional medicine systems — particularly India and China — to draw on best practices in training, certification, and clinical governance. As a result, the standard of licensed CAM practitioners in Bahrain is increasingly measured against international benchmarks.

Frequently asked questions

Can I find CAM practitioners in Bahrain who speak languages other than Arabic?

Yes. Given Bahrain’s large and ethnically diverse expatriate population, many CAM practitioners — especially those based in private clinics and integrated health centres in Manama and Seef — are fluent in English, and some also speak languages such as Urdu, Hindi, or Tagalog. When scheduling an appointment, confirm in advance which language the consultation will be conducted in, particularly for therapies that involve a comprehensive intake assessment, such as Ayurveda or homeopathy, where clear communication is essential.

How can I check whether a CAM practitioner in Bahrain is properly licensed?

The National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) is the body responsible for licensing CAM practitioners and facilities in Bahrain. You can contact the NHRA directly through their official website at nhra.bh to confirm a practitioner’s licensing status. Any legitimate practitioner should be able to furnish their NHRA licence number upon request. Do not proceed with treatment if a practitioner is unwilling or unable to confirm their licensed status.

Is hijama (cupping therapy) legal and regulated in Bahrain?

Yes, hijama is both legal and formally regulated in Bahrain. It is among the therapies officially recognised and supervised by the NHRA. Practitioners must hold a valid NHRA licence to offer cupping commercially. Hijama has deep cultural and religious roots in Bahrain and throughout the wider Gulf region, meaning licensed practitioners are relatively straightforward to locate. Always confirm NHRA licensure before making a booking, as unlicensed operators continue to exist.

Are there integrative clinics in Bahrain that combine CAM with conventional medicine?

Yes. A number of clinics in Bahrain — particularly within the greater Manama area — operate on an integrative model, providing services such as chiropractic, osteopathy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and therapeutic massage alongside or in coordination with conventional medical care. These facilities are generally NHRA-licensed and staffed by multi-disciplinary teams. If you are interested in complementary care, your GP or specialist may be able to provide a referral to a reputable integrative provider.

Will my health insurance cover CAM treatments in Bahrain?

Coverage is entirely dependent on the specifics of your policy. Standard public healthcare in Bahrain does not cover CAM for non-emergency purposes. Some premium private or international health insurance plans may extend coverage to selected therapies such as chiropractic, osteopathy, or acupuncture, often subject to conditions including a doctor’s referral, a cap on the number of sessions per year, or a requirement that the provider holds an NHRA licence. Always review your policy documents and speak directly with your insurer before commencing treatment. As of 2025, no mandatory requirement exists for insurers to cover CAM therapies.

Are herbal medicine products sold in Bahrain safe to use?

Herbal and natural health products available through licensed pharmacies in Bahrain are subject to oversight by the NHRA’s Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Products Regulation section. However, products sold outside regulated channels — at markets, online, or through unlicensed vendors — may not conform to required quality or safety standards. Always purchase herbal products from a licensed pharmacy, and make sure to inform both your doctor and your CAM practitioner of any supplements you are taking, particularly if you are on prescribed medication, as herb-drug interactions represent a genuine and serious safety concern.

Is naturopathy available in Bahrain and is it regulated?

Naturopathy appears on the NHRA’s list of approved and licensable CAM disciplines in Bahrain, meaning practitioners can be formally licensed. As with all CAM fields, however, the availability of suitably qualified practitioners varies. When looking for a naturopath, verify their NHRA licence and review their academic credentials. Licensing requirements specify that CAM practitioners must hold formally recognised qualifications and documented post-graduate experience. Visit nhra.bh for current registration requirements and information on approved practitioners.

How does the Bahraini approach to CAM compare with regulation elsewhere?

Bahrain’s regulatory approach is considerably more structured than that found in many regional counterparts. Rather than relying on a voluntary self-regulation model — in which professional associations set their own standards without legal enforcement — Bahrain’s NHRA-led system more closely mirrors statutory regulation, comparable in principle to the UK’s framework, where bodies such as the General Chiropractic Council and the General Osteopathic Council derive their authority from legislation. Practitioners must hold state-issued licences, facilities undergo inspections, and unlicensed practice is prohibited. This provides consumers with a meaningful degree of protection that may be entirely absent in jurisdictions where CAM remains largely ungoverned.