Starting a gaming center in Bahrain is a profitable opportunity as the country’s youth population and gaming community continue to grow. Whether you plan to open a video gaming center, an eSports arena, or a VR gaming lounge, obtaining the right gaming center license in Bahrain is essential.

In this detailed guide, learn everything you need to know about getting your gaming business license in Bahrain, including documentation, setup process, legal regulations, and business opportunities.

Why Start a Gaming Center in Bahrain?

The demand for gaming centers is increasing rapidly across Bahrain. With more people seeking entertainment through video games, VR technology, and competitive eSports, opening a gaming hub can be a lucrative business.

Benefits of Opening a Gaming Center in Bahrain:

• Growing youth and gamer population
  
• High demand for competitive eSports platforms
  
• Profitable business with limited staff requirements
  
• Scope for adding retail and café services
  
• Opportunity to host tournaments and gaming events
  

What is a Gaming Center License in Bahrain?

A gaming center license in Bahrain is a mandatory permit issued by Bahraini authorities that allows individuals or companies to legally operate a public gaming facility offering video games, consoles, PC gaming, VR stations, and eSports setups.

Without this official license, operating a gaming center is not allowed.

Types of Gaming Center Licenses in Bahrain

Depending on your business model, you can apply for specific license categories:

Video Gaming Center License

Covers businesses providing:

• PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo stations
  
• PC gaming setups
  
• Multiplayer gaming services
  

eSports Arena License

Required for facilities offering:

• Competitive eSports tournaments
  
• Team training rooms
  
• Live-streaming areas
  

VR Gaming Center License

For businesses offering:

• Virtual Reality gaming experiences
  
• Augmented Reality setups
  
• VR rental stations
  

Family Entertainment Center License

If your gaming center combines arcade games, simulators, and family-friendly zones, apply for a Family Entertainment Center (FEC) license.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Gaming Center License in Bahrain

Starting your gaming center in Bahrain involves multiple approvals and a structured application process.

Step 1: Select Your Business Activity Code

Choose the appropriate commercial activity code, such as:

• Electronic Gaming Activities
  
• eSports Facility Operations
  
• Virtual Reality Gaming Center
  

Your business activity code defines your permitted services.

Step 2: Reserve Your Business Name

Reserve a unique trade name through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Your gaming center’s name must not conflict with existing brands.

Step 3: Obtain Commercial Registration (CR)

Apply for your Commercial Registration (CR) via Bahrain’s Sijilat portal. This document serves as your business’s official registration.

Step 4: Secure Municipality Premises Approval

Your gaming facility must comply with safety and structural regulations:

• Layout approval of your gaming space
  
• Fire safety measures and emergency exits
  
• Accessible entrances and exits
  
• Restrooms and waiting areas
  

Once approved, you’ll receive your municipality clearance.

Step 5: Ensure Health and Safety Compliance

Gaming centers must meet health and safety regulations:

• Safe electrical wiring for consoles and PCs
  
• Proper ventilation and air conditioning
  
• Fire extinguishers and first-aid kits on site
  
• Hygiene standards for shared equipment

Step 6: Submit Gaming Center License Application

With documents ready, submit your application to Bahraini authorities, including:

• CR certificate
  
• Municipality approval
  
• Premises design plans
  
• Safety clearance certificates
  
• Licensing fees payment proof
  

Step 7: Pay Gaming Center License Fees

Pay fees covering:

• License issuance
  
• Health and safety inspections
  
• Municipality approvals
  

Step 8: Receive Your Gaming Center License

Once approved, you’ll receive your official gaming center license, allowing you to legally operate your business.

Documents Required for Gaming Center License in Bahrain

• Passport and CPR copy of business owner
  
• Commercial Registration (CR) certificate
  
• Municipality premises approval certificate
  
• Premises layout and safety plan
  
• Fire and health clearance certificates
  
• Payment receipts for license fees
  

Cost of Opening a Gaming Center in Bahrain

Setup costs depend on your gaming center’s size and services:

• CR registration: BHD 50 – BHD 100
  
• Gaming center license issuance: BHD 700 – BHD 1,500
  
• Municipality approval fees: BHD 200 – BHD 500
  
• Fire and health inspections: BHD 200 – BHD 500
  
• Gaming equipment (consoles, PCs, VR gear)
  
• Rent and interior fit-out costs
  

Total investment estimate: BHD 40,000 to BHD 120,000.

Renewal of Gaming Center License

Your gaming center license in Bahrain must be renewed annually:

• Submit updated documentation
  
• Pay renewal fees
  
• Pass municipal inspections (if required)
  
• Clear outstanding fines or violations
  

Regulations for Gaming Centers in Bahrain

To maintain your license, you must comply with regulations:

• No adult or violent content for underage gamers
  
• Licensed games only
  
• Age restriction policies enforced
  
• Time management for gaming sessions
  
• Cleanliness and hygiene standards
  
• Display valid business license publicly
  

Hiring Staff for Gaming Centers

• Employ trained staff with gaming product knowledge
  
• Provide safety and hygiene training
  
• Ensure staff have valid work visas
  
• Maintain staff records for inspection
  

Facility Design and Layout Guidelines

• Safe placement of gaming stations
  
• Proper power supply management
  
• Waiting zones and comfortable seating
  
• Adequate lighting and temperature control
  
• Café or snack area (optional)
  

Growth and Expansion Opportunities

Expand your gaming business by:

• Launching eSports tournaments and leagues
  
• Offering game rental services
  
• Adding VR escape rooms or simulators
  
• Launching an online gaming merchandise store
  
• Opening branches in malls or commercial centers
  

Benefits of Opening a Gaming Center in Bahrain

• Growing gaming and eSports community
  
• High demand for VR and AR experiences
  
• Youth-focused entertainment market
  
• Potential for hosting large-scale events
  
• Lucrative partnerships with brands and sponsors
  

Conclusion

Securing your gaming center license in Bahrain is the first step toward building a profitable business in the entertainment sector. By following the correct procedures and complying with safety and operational regulations, you’ll create a legal and successful gaming hub.

To simplify the process, consider working with professionals offering business setup services in Bahrain, ensuring a hassle-free license approval and fast-track setup.

FAQs

Is a license mandatory to open a gaming center in Bahrain?

Yes. A valid gaming center license is required to legally operate video gaming facilities.

How much does it cost to get a gaming center license in Bahrain?

License fees typically range from BHD 700 to BHD 1,500, excluding setup and equipment costs.

Can foreigners open a gaming center in Bahrain?

Yes. Foreign investors can open gaming businesses, subject to commercial laws and ownership regulations.

How long does it take to get the license?

On average, 3 to 5 weeks, depending on document readiness and inspections.

What games can be offered in a licensed gaming center?

Only officially licensed games approved under Bahraini regulations can be offered, with strict age restrictions in place.

Do gaming centers need municipality approval?

Yes. Premises layout, safety, and structural compliance must be approved by local municipal authorities.

Are health and safety clearances necessary?

Yes. Fire safety, electrical safety, and hygiene compliance are mandatory for gaming centers.

Is the license renewable?

Yes. The gaming center license must be renewed annually to continue operations legally.