Bahrain declares public holiday on January 1, 2026

Manama: Bahrain has announced a public holiday on Thursday, January 1, 2026, for all government ministries, departments, and public institutions.

The announcement was made through an official circular issued by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain. The circular confirms that all government offices will be closed on the day in observance of the New Year holiday.

Essential services and entities that operate on a shift basis or provide critical public services will continue to function as per their approved schedules, in accordance with applicable regulations and operational requirements.

The declaration allows public sector employees to plan their schedules in advance and aligns with Bahrain’s annual calendar of official holidays. Further details regarding working arrangements for semi-government bodies or the private sector are expected to be announced separately, in line with existing labor laws and regulations.

Bahrain regularly observes public holidays to mark national, religious, and internationally recognized occasions, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to balancing work responsibilities with cultural and social observances.