Bahrain Public Shareholding Company (B.S.C.)
A corporate structure designed for large-scale operations and public investment in Bahrain, offering limited liability and the ability to raise funds by offering shares to the public.
Limited Liability
Shareholders' liability is strictly limited to their share capital, protecting personal assets from business risks.
Foreign Direct Investment
Foreign investment is permitted, but specific MOIC and CBB (Central Bank of Bahrain) approvals may be required for public offerings.
Funding & Growth
Preferred for large projects, financial institutions, and companies looking to list on the Bahrain Bourse.
Structure Overview
The Public Shareholding Company (B.S.C.) is a separate legal entity registered with the MOIC and regulated by the CBB. It is highly credible and suitable for both small and large operations.
Ideal For:
- Large Manufacturing Projects
- Financial & Insurance Institutions
- Infrastructure & Energy
- Publicly Traded Entities
Key Features:
- Directors: Minimum 5 members on the Board of Directors
- Shareholders: Minimum 2 (No maximum limit)
- Capital: Minimum issued share capital of BHD 1,000,000
Setup Requirements
- Shareholders & Directors: Individuals or corporate bodies. Board must consist of at least 5 directors.
- Documents: Passports, CPRs, and detailed feasibility studies.
- Name Approval: Unique name approval via the Sijilat portal.
- Registered Office: A physical address in Bahrain with NOC.
B.S.C. Incorporation Process
Typical timeline: 10 - 15 Days
PRO & GRO Services
Set up Advanced eKey for online MOIC portal access.
Name Approval
Reserve company name and obtain initial MOIC approval.
Drafting Documents
Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association, outlining public offering terms.
Incorporation Filing
File incorporation documents with MOIC and obtain CBB prospectus approval.
Certificate (COI)
Issuance of the Commercial Registration (CR) from MOIC.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account with an Bahraini bank.
Capital Infusion
Deposit share capital in a local bank and hold the constituent general assembly.
Post-Incorporation
Register for VAT, LMRA, and list on the Bahrain Bourse (if applicable).
B.S.C. (Public) vs. B.S.C. (Closed)
| Feature | Public Shareholding Company | Closed Shareholding Company (B.S.C. Closed) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Entity | Separate Legal Entity | Separate Legal Entity |
| Liability | Limited to Share Capital | Limited to Share Capital |
| Funding | Highest (Can issue shares to public) | Medium (Shares not offered to public) |
| Audit | Mandatory statutory audit | Mandatory statutory audit |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum capital required for a B.S.C.?
The standard minimum issued share capital for a Bahrain Public Shareholding Company is BHD 1,000,000. However, the Central Bank of Bahrain may require more depending on the financial activities.
Who regulates a Public Shareholding Company?
A B.S.C. is dual-regulated. It must be registered with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC), but any public offering or financial activity is strictly regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB).
Can foreign nationals serve on the Board?
Yes, foreign nationals can serve on the Board of Directors. However, specific corporate governance rules set by the CBB and MOIC dictate the composition of executive, non-executive, and independent directors.
Is a physical office required?
Absolutely. A Public Shareholding Company must maintain a registered commercial office space in Bahrain that is approved by the Municipality.