According to Trowers & Hamlins, non-GCC buyers can own freehold only in designated zones, and the Golden Residence property threshold was cut to BHD 130,000.
According to the law firm Trowers & Hamlins, non-GCC nationals can own property in Bahrain only in designated areas: Marsa Al Seef, Amwaj Islands, Riffa Views, Durrat Al Bahrain and Diyar Al Muharraq, with Bilaj Al Jazayer added in April 2025. Outside these zones foreign ownership is generally prohibited, although long-term leasehold and usufruct rights may offer an alternative structure.
The firm also notes that the minimum real estate investment for the Golden Residence Visa was reduced from BHD 200,000 to BHD 130,000 in late 2025. The visa offers a renewable ten-year residence permit with full work rights and family sponsorship.
All property transactions must be registered with the Survey and Land Registration Bureau to be legally recognised. The firm adds that Decision No. 71 of 2025 now permits 100% foreign ownership in real estate brokerage services.
This is a legal summary, not advice for a specific purchase. Zones, thresholds and conditions can change, so confirm the current rules with a Bahraini lawyer before you buy.