The kingdom of Bahrain has implemented a wide-scale work from home policy for government employees due to the increasing regional tension between Iran and Israel. The decision comes amid fears of potential Iranian retaliation against the US Base in the region, which hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet.
As of 22 June 2025, Bahraini authorities ordered approximately 70 percent of government employees to work remotely. In addition, this move is to limit the physical presence to only the needed staff.
It is a part of a broader national safety strategy that reflects its proactive approach to ensure the continuity of the government operation and decrease the potential risks. In this post, we will give you in-depth information regarding the Bahrain work from home policy.
Why Bahrain Implemented Work from Home Measures
As we told you before, the Bahrain Work From Home policy came out of the security concern over potential Iranian retaliation against the US military bases in the region, including those situated in Bahrain.
President Donald Trump already confirmed the US strikes that targeted Iran’s nuclear capabilities, which intensify the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Therefore, the proximity of Bahrain to Iran has raised serious fears of direct or indirect consequences, like a missile attack or regional instability.
Bahrain Work from Home Policy: A Response to Regional Instability
On Saturday, Bahrain announced that 70 percent of government workers will work remotely until further notice because the kingdom is moving to decrease risks amid rapidly growing tension after the US attack on the Iranian nuclear facilities.
The Civil Service Bureau said that the order applies to all ministries and government bodies. However, sectors that need on-site presence or operate under emergency protocols are exempted from the Bahrain work from home policy. This approach ensures essential operations continue while focusing on the safety of employees.
This decision is said to be taken “in light of regional circumstances and in the interest of public safety”. Moreover, it follows the declaration of Iran that all US interests in the region are now potential targets.
Online Education Complements Bahrain’s Work from Home Strategy
Besides Bahrain’s work from home policy, the Ministry of Education in Bahrain has also issued instructions to all public and private educational institutes, like schools, universities, and Kindergartens, to activate their online learning platforms.
As per the ministry, this move is said to be a precautionary step and is a part of an approved contingency plan to ensure the continuity of learning. Moreover, the schools or universities that need technical guidance or operational assistance are advised to connect with the Higher Education Council via the established communication channel.
The move to online education is particularly significant due to Bahrain’s role as a regional hub that hosts US military personnel. This combined approach of Bahrain’s remote work and online education showcases a nationwide strategy to maintain operational stability during a time of uncertainty. In addition, it underscores Bahrain’s digital preparedness in seamlessly converting public services online.
No Road Move in Bahrain
Besides remote work and online classes, the Bahrain government has also restricted people from moving on the main roads. The Ministry of Interior has urged the public to limit non-essential movement. Furthermore, it has also restricted people from using the main roads only when needed to allow emergency services and key personnel unhindered access.
Looking Ahead
The duration of the Bahrain Work from home policy has not been revealed yet by the officials. However, it is expected that the ongoing assessment is going to determine its extension or easing. In addition, the security agencies might also monitor the development between Iran and Israel. Furthermore, this decision highlights the government’s focus on proactive governance and digital resilience during the geopolitical tension.
