Navigating VAT in Bahrain

This guide provides an overview of VAT in Bahrain, including applicable rates, registration requirements, compliance obligations, and filing deadlines. It is designed for businesses engaging in transactions within Bahrain.

Last Updated: November 2025

5%

When Bahrain introduced VAT in 2019, it started at 5%, one of the lowest rates globally.

Bahrain at a glance.

Standard rate

10% VAT

Digital services VAT

Yes, at 10%

Mandate e-invoicing

Voluntary

Currency

Bahraini Dinar (BHD)

Zero-rated items

Selected goods, essential items, health-related supplies, transport services, and education-related activities receive preferential VAT treatment.

VAT format

15 numberic digits

Fiscal representation

No, it is optional.

Reclaiming VAT in Bahrain.

Foreign businesses incurring expenses in Bahrain? You might be eligible for a VAT refund.

Who can reclaim?
Claimable expenses:
Entertainment
10%
Accommodation
10%
Food, drink & restaurant services
10%
Hiring means of transport
10%
Fuel
0%
Public Transport
0%
Taxis
0%
Admission to fairs & exhibitions
10%
Training courses & seminars
10%
Goods
10%
Inter-company charges
10%
Office expenses
10%
Marketing costs
10%
Professional fees & AP invoices
10%
e-invoicing in Bahrain.
Summary of the mandate in this country

B2G mandate in place

No

B2B mandate in place

No

B2C mandate in place

No

Obligation status: B2B e-Invoicing

To be announced

B2B e-Invoicing model

N/A

Name of exchange infrastructure

TBA (system under development)

Format(s) used

Likely XML-based format (to align with VAT reporting)

FAQs

No. Like most of the GCC countries, there is only one Bahrain VAT rate.

Bahrain VAT refund claims must exceed BHD 200 for them to be processed.

In addition to the invoices for which a VAT refund in Bahrain is being requested, the following documents would need to be submitted: bank account details, a valid tax certificate, certificate of incorporation of the claimant, completed claim form and documents relating to the entity's appointed agent (if applicable - for example if the business appointed VAT IT to submit the VAT refund application on its behalf).

Nearby countries.

Explore indirect tax information in these countries:

Saudi Arabia
UAE
Oman

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