Bahrain Healthcare Costs to Rise for Expats and Visitors
The Bahraini government has confirmed that healthcare services provided to all non-Bahraini residents and visitors will undergo a price revision. This change is set to take effect following the full implementation of the Sehati national social health insurance system.
New Pricing Structure Under Sehati
The updated pricing model for medical services will be determined by several key factors, including the actual cost of providing care, established quality standards, and the long-term sustainability of the national healthcare system. This initiative follows requests from members of parliament to ensure that public health fees for non-Bahrainis more accurately reflect the expenses currently being absorbed by the state.
Under the Sehati program, mandatory health insurance is already a requirement for expatriate workers, with contributions being funded by employers as part of the work permit process. These fees have already seen gradual increases, such as the 12-month health fee which rose to BHD 90 in 2026.
Mandatory Insurance for Visitors
The pricing adjustments will also impact visitors to the kingdom. The government has mandated a compulsory health insurance plan that is linked directly to the issuance or renewal of visas. This insurance is specifically designed to cover:
- Emergency medical treatments
- Accident-related injuries
While earlier proposals suggested a flat BHD 5 fee, authorities have instead opted to establish fees within a formal insurance framework. The Supreme Council of Health will be responsible for determining the specific insurance packages, coverage limits, and co-payments available to visitors.
Reducing Pressure on Public Facilities
A major objective of this pricing revision is to alleviate the significant pressure on public medical facilities, such as the Salmaniya Medical Complex. By restructuring these costs, the government aims to:
- Encourage the utilization of private healthcare services.
- Maintain the overall sustainability of the healthcare system.
- Ensure continued, reliable access to healthcare for Bahraini citizens.
Expatriates are advised to consult with their employers regarding their current Sehati contributions. Residents should also anticipate potential adjustments to insurance premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses as the deployment of the new system continues.