English translation published by the NBR in its bilingual Regulations file (marked unofficial). The Arabic text published in the Official Gazette remains the legal reference in the event of any discrepancy.
Exports outside the Implementing States and Supplies into or within a customs suspension regime are zero-rated only where Goods actually move within 90 days, are moved by or for Supplier or Customer, are not used, changed or supplied to a third party in Bahrain before movement except export preparation, and are supported by customs, commercial and transport evidence. Without proof, the NBR may refuse zero rating.
Exporters, manufacturers, traders, brokers and sales and logistics teams.
Export intention or a foreign Customer address is insufficient. Zero rating depends on timely actual movement and a matching evidence chain; otherwise Output VAT exposure remains with the Supplier.
Current text
Prove export before zero rating
- 1
Record Supply date and the 90-day endpoint.
- 2
Confirm actual export or customs suspension movement.
- 3
Identify who moved the Goods.
- 4
Confirm no local use, change or third-party Supply except export preparation.
- 5
Match customs documents to invoice, Customer and destination.
- 6
Retain bill of lading, airway bill and delivery evidence.
- 7
Correct treatment if export cannot be evidenced.
Connected provisions
Law — Article (53)
Zero-rated SuppliesThe Law creates export zero rating and this Article sets movement, time and evidence.
Open connected ArticleRegulations — Article (72)
Re-exportArticle 72 addresses temporarily imported Goods repaired or processed and re-exported.
Open connected ArticleOfficial guides and tools
Connected Madar tools
Goods left after day 90
A Supplier invoices exported Goods at zero rate, but they remain in its warehouse and leave on day 95. A foreign contract and later shipping document do not remove the 90-day condition; zero rating is at risk unless another legal basis applies.
Questions to help you apply it
- When were Supply and movement?
- Was movement within 90 days?
- Were Goods used or changed locally?
- Do customs, commercial and transport documents match?