Where foreigners can buy
Bahrain operates a designated freehold model. Non-GCC nationals can own 100% freehold property only inside government-approved zones. The main freehold areas are:
- Amwaj Islands
- Reef Island
- Bahrain Bay
- Seef District
- Juffair
- Durrat Al Bahrain
- Diyar Al Muharraq (selected plots)
GCC nationals can buy in most areas of Bahrain without restriction.
Costs to budget
Beyond the purchase price, expect:
- Survey & Land Registration fee: 1.7% of value (reduced to 1.5% if paid within 60 days of contract)
- Legal/notary fees: ~1% of value
- Mortgage registration (if financed): 0.5% of loan
- Real-estate brokerage: typically 2% (negotiable, paid by buyer or seller depending on contract)
Step-by-step purchase process
- Reserve the unit and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Pay 10% deposit into escrow
- Conduct due diligence — title search at the Survey & Land Registration Bureau (SLRB)
- Sign the Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- Pay the balance and registration fees
- Title is transferred at SLRB; you receive a new title deed in your name
The full process typically completes in 4–8 weeks.
Financing as a foreigner
Most Bahraini banks (Ahli United, BBK, NBB) lend to expat residents with a stable income. Typical terms:
- Loan-to-value: 60–75%
- Tenor: up to 25 years (must end before age 65–70)
- Interest rates: from 4.5% (variable) for premium clients
Non-resident foreigners face stricter LTV (often 50%) and higher rates.