Resolving Resignation Dispute in Bahrain: Understanding Contractual Obligations and Labor Laws

Dear Sir/Madam,

I joined a company in Bahrain on 13th September 2012 with a 2-year contract (22 months of service + 2 months of vacation). My 22-month service period is scheduled to end on 12th July 2014. Therefore, I submitted my resignation on 5th June 2014, with a 30-day notice period, stating that 12th July 2014 will be my last working day, and I do not wish to renew the contract.

However, my manager is now informing me that despite my 22-month service period, I am required to work until September 2014. I am confused as to why they are insisting on a 24-month working period when my contract only stipulated 22 months.

Please assist me in resolving this situation.

Thank you.

Hello,

Since you are working in Bahrain, the procedure for submitting a resignation may vary from one practice to another. However, I would like to gather the following details before providing my final advice:

1. What is the normal procedure for submitting a resignation in your current company?
2. Is there any article in your contract that could prevent you from submitting a resignation letter?
3. Is your boss requesting you not to resign, or is he forcing you to stay?
4. What is the nature of work and the exact location of your organization?

Please provide this information so that I can offer you the most relevant advice.

I think the best option now is to sit quietly, seem amiable to all, including seniors and the HR department, and somehow finish the end-of-contract date in September. Though they may not relieve you two months in advance, they will surely have to pay you for that period. Nothing can be done, my friend. I can understand your frustration, but the company is entitled under Bahrain laws. Taking back your resignation will not serve any purpose either, as they have discovered your intentions, which are not to continue.

Try sweet-talking the HR department to plead your case for the end-of-term gratuity, which is 15 days of basic pay for every completed year of service (if my memory serves me right).

All the best,
Robin Varghese
HR Consultant, New Delhi
+91-8800747161
robin_vargh@yahoo.com
Contact us for your HR needs - recruitment/payroll management/HRMS

You will receive gratuity as per the new law. Additionally, the company may choose not to renew your visa since you will be leaving in two months' time period.