Foreign nationals can own property in Bahrain on a freehold basis, but only in areas the government has designated for foreign ownership. This guide lists the main freehold areas, what property costs there according to official RERA data, and how the buying process works.
Can foreigners own property in Bahrain?
Yes. Since 2001, non-GCC nationals have been allowed to buy freehold apartments, villas and land in designated areas. Ownership is registered with the Survey and Land Registration Bureau (SLRB), and owners can sell, rent out or pass on their property.
Outside the designated areas, purchases by non-GCC nationals are generally not permitted. Citizens of GCC countries follow separate, wider rules, explained in our guide for GCC buyers.
Freehold areas for foreign buyers
| Area | Typical property | Average price per m² |
|---|---|---|
| Bahrain Bay | Waterfront towers | BD 1,052 |
| Juffair | Apartment towers popular with expatriate tenants | BD 787 |
| Hoora | Apartment buildings close to central Manama | BD 772 |
| Seef | Towers near malls and the business district | BD 715 |
| Diyar Al Muharraq | Family villas, townhouses and apartments | BD 607 |
| Amwaj Islands | Island villas and lagoon-view apartments | — |
| Reef Island | Island apartments and villas near Manama | — |
| Marsa Al Seef | New waterfront community | — |
| Durrat Al Bahrain | Resort villas on islands in the south | — |
| Riffa Views | Villas around a golf course | — |
| Bilaj Al Jazayer | Beachfront development in the south, added in 2025 | — |
Prices are RERA averages for all property types sold in each area in Q2 2026. Areas marked — had too few sales to publish a figure. See more data on our Bahrain property prices page.
The list of designated areas changes from time to time. Always confirm with the developer, agent or a Bahrain lawyer that a specific property can be sold to a foreign buyer.
What it costs to buy
- Registration fee: 2% of the property value, reduced to 1.7% if you apply to register within 60 days of notarising the sale contract.
- Agent commission and legal fees: agree these in writing before you sign.
- Service charges: common in towers and managed communities. Ask for the latest annual amount.
Mortgages for expatriates
Many banks in Bahrain offer mortgages to expatriate residents. They usually lend a lower share of the property value than for Bahraini citizens and set a minimum salary. Compare offers from several banks before you commit.
Residency through property
Owning property worth at least BHD 130,000 makes you eligible to apply for Bahrain’s 10-year Golden Residence, which includes the right to work and to sponsor family members. The threshold was lowered from BHD 200,000 in late 2025.
How to buy, step by step
- Choose a property in a freehold area that fits your budget and plans.
- Confirm the property can be sold to a foreign buyer.
- Agree the price and sign a reservation agreement, usually with a deposit.
- Complete legal checks, then sign and notarise the sale contract.
- Register the sale with the SLRB within 60 days to get the lower 1.7% fee.
- Receive your title deed and take handover.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy land in Bahrain?
Yes, but only within the designated freehold areas.
Can I buy property in Bahrain if I live abroad?
Yes. You do not need to live in Bahrain to own property in a freehold area.
Which area has the highest prices?
In Q2 2026, Bahrain Bay had the highest average price per square metre at BD 1,052, followed by Al Qudaybiyah and Juffair.
Find property in freehold areas
Browse properties for sale in Bahrain, or start with Amwaj Islands and Diyar Al Muharraq.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Ownership rules and fees can change, so confirm them with the SLRB or a Bahrain lawyer before you buy. Last updated October 2026.