This guide explains how to start a barber shop business in Bahrain, covering everything from licensing requirements to setup costs. It details the step-by-step process for obtaining a barber shop license, required documents, health and safety standards, and the benefits of entering this growing market. With Bahrain’s supportive business environment and steady demand for grooming services, the article highlights why it’s an ideal place for launching a successful barber shop.

What is a Barber Shop License in Bahrain?

A Barber Shop License in Bahrain is a legal permit that allows an individual or business to operate a barbering or men’s grooming service in the Kingdom. It is issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) after fulfilling all the legal, health, and safety requirements. This license falls under the category of personal grooming and care services, and it is mandatory for running any commercial barbershop.

The license ensures that the shop meets hygiene standards, employs certified professionals, and uses approved equipment and products. Without a valid barber shop license, operating such a business in Bahrain is illegal and can result in heavy fines or permanent closure.

Whether you are planning to open a small barbershop, a luxury men’s grooming lounge, or a franchise brand, securing the license is the first step.

Why Bahrain is the Right Place for Barber Shop

Bahrain is becoming one of the most attractive destinations for personal care businesses in the Gulf region. Here’s why starting a Barber Shop Business in Bahrain makes sense:

Growing Population and Urban Lifestyle

Bahrain’s young and style-conscious population drives demand for regular grooming services. With growing awareness about men’s personal care, barbershops see consistent footfall.

Business-Friendly Environment

Bahrain ranks high in ease of doing business. Company registration is simple, with low fees, fast approvals, and minimal restrictions on foreign ownership in many sectors.

High Demand for Grooming Services

Expatriates, professionals, and locals often prefer well-maintained, hygienic, and stylish barber shops. This creates a strong and loyal customer base.

Free Zone and Mainland Options

You can set up your barber shop in a mainland location or within a commercial zone. This offers flexibility in choosing a business model that suits your goals.

Tourism Boost

Tourism and hospitality growth lead to higher demand for grooming services near hotels, malls, and events, expanding business opportunities.

Step by Step Process to Obtain a Barber Shop License in Bahrain

Starting a barber shop in Bahrain is straightforward when you follow the correct legal steps. Below is the full step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare a Business Plan

Outline the services you plan to offer (e.g., haircuts, shaving, beard grooming), target market, location, investment budget, staffing needs, and equipment.

Step 2: Choose a Business Structure

Decide on the legal structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, or WLL (With Limited Liability). A WLL is recommended for better credibility and protection.

Step 3: Select a Trade Name

Pick a unique and relevant name for your barber shop. Submit the name for approval through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) portal.

Step 4: Apply for Commercial Registration (CR)

Submit an application for your Barber Shop Business Registration in Bahrain via the Sijilat system. You’ll need:

• Approved trade name
• Business activity (Barber/Personal Grooming)
• Valid ID/passport copies
• Lease agreement for premises
• Details of business partners, if any

Step 5: Get Municipality Approval

Apply to the local municipality to inspect your premises. They ensure your location complies with zoning and sanitation standards for grooming services.

Step 6: Obtain Health Clearance

As personal grooming involves hygiene-sensitive services, health clearance is mandatory. You must:

• Use approved barber chairs, sterilization tools, and disposable kits
• Install proper ventilation, drainage, and water supply
• Maintain waste disposal and sanitation systems

Step 7: Register for VAT (if applicable)

If your annual turnover exceeds the threshold, you must register for VAT with Bahrain’s National Bureau for Revenue (NBR).

Step 8: Hire Licensed Professionals

Staff should be trained and preferably licensed or certified in hair styling, beard grooming, and salon hygiene.

Step 9: Final License Approval

After document verification and inspection, MOIC will issue the license. You can now legally operate your barbershop.

Requirements for Obtaining a Barber Shop License in Bahrain

To run a compliant and successful barbershop in Bahrain, you must meet the following requirements:

Legal Documentation

• Commercial Registration (CR) from MOIC
• Municipality health and safety certificate
• Approved lease contract
• Partner or owner’s CPR or passport

Location Standards

• Must be located in a commercial area
• Separate area for haircuts, washing, and waiting
• Proper sanitation and sterilization zones

Health & Safety

• Use of disposable razors or sterilized tools
• Hair washing basin with clean water supply
• Fire extinguisher and emergency procedures
• Compliance with Ministry of Health regulations

Equipment

• Barber chairs, hair dryers, sterilizers
• Haircutting tools and shaving kits
• Towel warmers, cabinets, and mirrors

Staff

• Minimum one certified barber
• Clean dress code and grooming
• Personal hygiene training for all employees

Benefits of Starting a Barber Shop Business in Bahrain

The barbershop business is a stable and profitable sector in Bahrain. Here are its main advantages:

Consistent Demand

Haircuts and grooming are regular needs. Customers visit every 2-4 weeks, offering predictable cash flow.

Low Startup Costs

Initial setup is more affordable than many other industries. Equipment and interiors can be scaled as per budget.

High Customer Loyalty

A skilled and polite barber can turn first-time visitors into long-term clients who return monthly.

Multiple Revenue Streams

Besides basic haircuts, you can offer:

• Beard styling and trims
• Hair coloring
• Scalp massages and grooming products
• VIP grooming services or subscriptions

Location Flexibility

You can start in residential areas, malls, near business hubs, or tourist spots, depending on your target market.

Franchising Options

Once established, you can franchise your brand or expand to multiple locations.

Cost of Getting a Bahrain Barber Shop License

The total cost of setting up a barbershop in Bahrain depends on the size, services, and location. Here’s a breakdown:

Estimated Costs:

• Trade Name and CR Registration: BHD 400 – 600
• Municipality Approvals: BHD 300 – 500
• Health Clearance: BHD 200 – 400
• Salon Equipment: BHD 2,000 – 5,000
• Interior Design & Setup: BHD 2,500 – 6,000
• Marketing & Signboard: BHD 500 – 1,000
• Salaries (First 3 months): BHD 1,500 – 3,000

Total average cost: BHD 8,000 – BHD 12,000 depending on scale.

You may also need working capital for the first few months before generating steady revenue.

Conclusion

Getting a Barber Shop License in Bahrain is your first step to entering a stable and rewarding business industry. From regulatory approvals to health and safety, each step ensures your barbershop is ready to serve customers professionally and legally.

Bahrain’s growing urban population, investor-friendly policies, and strong grooming culture make it an ideal place to launch your grooming brand. Whether you’re a trained barber or an entrepreneur, this industry offers reliable income and brand potential.

To make the process smooth and avoid delays, it’s best to consult experts in Business Setup in Bahrain. Their support helps with paperwork, compliance, location selection, and registration.

FAQs

Can a foreigner open a barber shop in Bahrain?

Yes, foreigners can open a barbershop. They may need a local partner depending on the company structure.

Do I need a separate license for a men’s and women’s salon?

Yes, these are classified separately. You’ll need individual licenses if you plan to serve both.

How long does it take to get a barber shop license in Bahrain?

If all documents are correct, the process usually takes 3 to 6 weeks.

Can I offer product sales in my barbershop?

Yes, you can sell grooming products with the correct business activity added to your CR.

Do I need prior experience to open a barber shop?

Experience helps but is not mandatory. However, your staff must be skilled and qualified.

Can I run a home-based barbershop in Bahrain?

No, you must operate from a commercial space approved by the municipality.

What if I don’t renew my license on time?

Late renewal can lead to fines or suspension of business activity.

Do I need a business plan for license application?

Not required for submission, but highly recommended for internal planning and bank loans.