Design Director Salary in Capital, Bahrain
In Manama, design leaders earn BHD15,000 annually. This median reflects demand from banks, hotels, and government agencies for brand experience and visual strategy.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
BHD9,000 to BHD12,000
Average (per year)
BHD10,500
Less experienced directors work for local agencies or smaller tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
BHD12,500 to BHD17,500
Average (per year)
BHD15,000
Oversee design projects, mentor junior designers, and align visual strategy with brand goals.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
BHD18,000 to BHD26,000
Average (per year)
BHD22,000
Senior directors secure roles in a range of projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
BHD27,000+
Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives brand innovation across the organization.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
BHD6 - BHD10
per hour
Mid-level
BHD11 - BHD18
per hour
Senior
BHD19 - BHD35
per hour
Compared with the national average of BHD12,000, Manama pays roughly 25% more.