More than 137,000 citizens are currently benefiting from Bahrain’s social support programmes, it has been revealed.
Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi yesterday defended the ministry’s performance and confirmed that the long-awaited Comprehensive Centre for the Rehabilitation of People with Disabilities in A’ali would begin phased operations this year.
Responding to questions from Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman MP Ahmed Al Salloom, public utilities and environment affairs committee vice-chairman MP Mohammed Janahi and MP Dr Muneer Suroor, the minister said 137,000 beneficiaries receive government support, including 17,740 under the social welfare scheme and 15,440 people with disabilities.
“These figures reflect the scale and seriousness of the government’s commitment to social protection,” Mr Al Alawi said, stressing that claims circulating outside Parliament were ‘inaccurate and taken out of context’.
He added that the ministry’s communication channels remain fully open, with requests received daily via WhatsApp, the electronic portal, social centres and the virtual service centre.
Mr Al Alawi rejected claims that the A’ali disability complex has been delayed, asserting that maintenance works were nearing completion, and 2025 was dedicated entirely to this process.
He described the centre as one of Bahrain’s largest service projects, explaining that it required extensive refurbishment after being used as a Covid-19 quarantine facility.
Located on more than 29,000 square metres, the complex consists of 10 specialised buildings and will operate under a new model based on partnerships with government bodies, civil society and the private sector.
It will provide integrated rehabilitation services, including diagnosis and assessment for 1,300 people annually, residential care for severe intellectual disabilities, autism and cerebral palsy centres, vocational aftercare, and day and sports clubs.
Mr Al Alawi also outlined eligibility criteria for assistive devices, stating that beneficiaries must be Bahraini citizens, reside in Bahrain, be registered within approved beneficiary lists, under the age of 60, and earn no more than BD1,500 per month.
He said the ministry continues to review applications to ensure support reaches those who genuinely qualify for it.
The parliamentary session also unanimously approved Decree-Law (34) of 2025, which introduces a sweeping overhaul of Bahrain’s legal framework governing disability care, rehabilitation and employment.
The decree-law has now been referred to the Shura Council for review.
Issued by His Majesty King Hamad following Cabinet approval, the amendments restructure oversight by establishing a Committee for the Care of Persons with Disabilities under the Social Development Ministry.
Mr Al Alawi said the ministry is moving towards a more transparent, responsive and digitally enabled social protection system.
“This transformation is not only about technology. It is about building a modern system that puts citizens first, strengthens social stability and ensures sustainable support for those who need it most,” he added.
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