Business Setup In Bahrain

Freezone Law: Bahrain International Airport

1. What law established this free zone?

   Bahrain International Airport is not actually a Free Zone, although it is sometimes mistakenly referred to as one. The Airport Zone is governed by the Sovereign wealth fund of the nation, Mumtalakat.

2. What are the main internal regulations governing this free zone?

   As the BIA is not a Free Zone, the regulations governing it are the same as any ordinary area of the nation. There are no specific internal regulations governing companies formed in it.

3. Does this free zone has reciprocal arrangements with other Free Zones?

   No, there are no reciprocal agreements with other free zones.

4. What key areas of local legislation must a business operating in this free zone still comply with? What are the most important examples of how this affects operations?

   Considering the nature of this area and the fact it is not a true free zone, the external regulations of the country are the primary regulations which must be abided by in the BIA. Some of the key laws are:

   The Commercial Companies Law, Bahrain Decree-Law No. 21/2001. The Labour Law issued in Bahrain Legislative Decree No. 36/2012. The GCC Common Customs Law of 2001. 5. What key agencies do businesses operating in this free zone need to register with or be aware of?

   The crucial agencies to register with and obtain approval from depend on the businesses activities. Some of the key agencies are:

   Foreign Affairs Ministry; Industry, Commerce and Tourism Ministry. However this list is not exhaustive.

6. How does a company set up in this Free Zone?

   A commercial company is set up by:

   Completing an electronic application and submitting it to the relevant authorities in the MOICT to obtain approvals; Paying any municipal fees; Obtaining any external approvals; Documenting the Articles of Incorporation and Association; Publishing in the Official Gazette. 7. What features go companies set up in this Free Zone have?

   As this is not a free zone company, there are no specific special features.

8. What can companies set up in this Free Zone do?

   The key economic areas companies can have as their business activities are:

   Retail; Cargo Facilities; Advertising. 9. What can companies set up in this Free Zone not do?

   Anything not related to the activities mentioned cannot be done in this airport zone. However, offices for companies as well as warehouses can be obtained for numerous purposes.

10. What types of business are allowed to operate...