June 2025
Starting June 2025, every business in Bahrain must offer at least one way for customers to pay electronically. Cash-only is no longer enough. This means you need to accept cards, phone payments, or any other e-payment method.
There's another important rule: you must use a business bank account for all your business payments. Personal accounts are not allowed anymore. You also need to register your business account on the Sijilat system. If you don't, you won't be able to renew your commercial registration (CR).
The government says these changes will make payments safer, help prevent fraud, and make it easier for business owners to keep track of their money. It also helps with things like VAT and other taxes.
If you don't follow the new rules, you could face fines or even have your business license frozen. So, make sure your business is set up for e-payments and your bank account is registered on Sijilat.
Sources: LocalBH, News of Bahrain