Shelf companies, also known as ready-made companies, are legal entities that were already registered and have stayed inactive. You can rely on our local specialists if you want to buy a shelf company in Bahrain.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Legal entities available for shelf company | – limited liability company, – shareholding company |
Time required for purchasing the company | A few days |
Types of features it includes (corporate bank account, VAT number, etc) | – trading name, – registered address, – director, – company bank account, – tax number |
| The advantages of a shelf company | – simple acquisition, – possibility to use it for various activities, – full foreign ownership
|
| Appointing new directors | Yes |
| Capital increase allowed | Yes |
| Certificate of no commercial activities | Yes |
| Modify the objects of activity | Yes |
| Participants in the purchase procedure | Buyer or representative and seller |
| The cost of buying a shelf company | The cost depends on the type of company purchased and its age. |
Table of Contents
Can I buy a shelf company in Bahrain if I am a foreigner?
Yes, such companies are available for sale for both local and foreign investors.
What is the procedure for buying a Bahraini ready-made company?
There are a few simple steps you can follow:
- research several service providers: we recommend addressing those in the city you are interested in launching your operations; either way, you will find plenty of trustworthy providers across the country;
- ask for offers and conditions;
- get the documents ready: from your side, the ID or passport copy will suffice, while the seller will draft the sale contract.
What are the legal forms of shelf companies in Bahrain?
The most common types of legal entities in Bahrain are the closed joint stock company and the limited liability company.
What are the documents required to buy a shelf company in Bahrain?
When purchasing an aged company, the buyer must prepare identification papers such as a passport or identity card, or a certificate of registration if the company wants to purchase a ready-made entity.
All the legal paperwork must be signed at a notary’s office by the buyer and seller for the transaction to be completed.
Can this purchase procedure be completed while I am outside Bahrain?
Yes, remote shelf company acquisition is available in Bahrain. Once you settle on all the details with the seller, you can rely on our local specialists to complete the deal. In this case, bear in mind that alongside your passport copy, we will also need a power of attorney for representation.
What will I get after buying a Bahraini shelf company?
Shelf companies are handed over with:
- a registered commercial name;
- the Memorandum and Articles of Association;
- the registered address;
- the tax registration number.
Are aged shelf companies available for sale in Bahrain?
Yes, aged companies are registered and kept dormant for several years, so you can acquire one.
Do I need to make any changes to a shelf company in Bahrain?
Yes, you need to make several amendments, as follows:
- the Memorandum and Articles of Association must be amended with your name as a shareholder;
- you can also change the name of the company to a more suitable one that represents the services or products of your business;
- the registered address can also be altered, if you want.
IMPORTANT – Any change must be recorded with the Trade Register.
Is it possible to buy a ready-made company with a VAT number?
Yes, such companies are also available for sale, but most of them do not have VAT numbers, as this is not a mandatory initial registration requirement.
You can also watch our video below:
How can I use a shelf company after the purchase?
A ready-made business in Bahrain can be used for the following things:
- as a vehicle for obtaining loans from Bahraini banks (some banks require an established reputation and history),
- for private-public partnerships with the local authorities for joint projects,
- for joint venture agreements with other private businesses in Bahrain,
- for relocation by incorporating the history of an existing business into the shelf company bought to operate in Bahrain.
How long does it take to buy a shelf company in Bahrain in 2026?
A few days, depending on how soon the documents are prepared.
How much does a Bahraini ready-made company cost in 2026?
You will find Bahraini companies at various prices. The cost is influenced by the age of the entity (aged ones are the most expensive), as well as by the features (a company with a VAT code and bank account is more expensive than a basic one).
If you want to set up a shelf company in Bahrain, or if you need any company registration advice, please feel free to contact our friendly staff. We are also at your service should you want to register a new company in Bahrain.