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Bahrain – Property Building and Renovation

Planning Permission in Bahrain

In Bahrain, it is necessary to apply for planning permission to build or renovate a property. The procedure is as follows:

  • Obtain a project from an architect or engineer
  • Submit the project to the Survey and Land Registration Bureau for approval
  • Once approved, obtain a building permit from the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning

Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, and Preservation Orders

If your property is listed or located within a conservation area or preservation order, there are additional rules and regulations to follow.

  • Listed buildings require approval from the Ministry of Culture for any alterations or renovations
  • Conservation areas and preservation orders may have restrictions on the type of changes that can be made to the property’s exterior

Finding Reliable Builders in Bahrain

When looking for a builder in Bahrain, it’s important to find someone reliable and trustworthy. One way to do this is to look for builders who belong to a professional organization.

  • The Bahrain Society of Engineers is a professional organization that represents builders and contractors in Bahrain. They can be contacted at bse@bse.org.bh or +973 1772 7227.

Permits and Licences

When building or renovating a property in Bahrain, there are several permits and licenses you may need to obtain.

  • Building permit: Required for any new construction or major renovation
  • Electrical permit: Required for any electrical work
  • Plumbing permit: Required for any plumbing work

Finding a Local Architect in Bahrain

If you need an architect to design your project, you can find one through the Bahrain Society of Engineers.

Buying Land in Bahrain

If you’re buying land in Bahrain, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of.


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  • Make sure you have planning permission before purchasing land
  • Check the boundaries of the land to ensure they match the land registry
  • Be aware of any environmental or conservation restrictions that may affect the land
  • Check for any outstanding taxes or debts on the land