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Comprehensive Healthcare System

Workers in the United Arab Emirates - whether employed in the private sector or as domestic workers - benefit from a comprehensive, high-quality healthcare system that provides them access to a range of medical services. Employers are required to purchase a health insurance policy for all their employees, as this policy is a mandatory requirement for issuing and renewing residency permits.

Unemployment Insurance Scheme

In 2022, the United Arab Emirates launched the Unemployment Insurance Scheme, aimed at providing a social protection safety net that ensures a dignified standard of living for Emirati and resident employees. The scheme offers temporary financial support to eligible individuals during periods of involuntary unemployment.

Heat Stress Prevention Policy

The United Arab Emirates implements an annual heat stress prevention policy as part of a comprehensive framework designed to provide a safe working environment in line with best practices and occupational health and safety standards. The policy helps safeguard workers from injuries and risks associated with working in high temperatures during the summer months.
Each year, approximately 99% of companies comply with this policy, which mandates a daily midday work break prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in outdoor areas from 15 June to 15 September every year.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

Saving Scheme

The Savings Scheme is one of the UAE’s unique initiatives, enabling the investment of funds allocated for end-of-service benefits for employees working in companies that choose to participate in the programme. Implemented through government-approved investment funds, the scheme aims to grow employees’ savings and deliver sustainable investment returns.


Workers Protection Programme

As part of the UAE’s efforts to strengthen the protection of workers’ rights, the Workers Protection Programme stands as one of the key initiatives supporting a safe and stable work environment. The programme aims to secure all financial entitlements for private-sector employees, including unpaid wages, and provides an effective safety net that covers around 99% of the workforce across various economic sectors.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

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Workers Protection Program

more than 32k

is the total Number of Workers that benefitted from the Worker Protection Program over the last 5 years, for claims related to unpaid wages, unpaid end of service, and other worker entitlements.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

an average of more than AED 9k

is paid to each worker, reaching up to AED 20k.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

more than AED 289 millions

is the total amount paid to workers against their claims over the last 5 years.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

88.38 %

The percentage of employees with unemployment insurance policies among the total targeted workforce in the private sector.
Approximately 17,758 workers have benefited by receiving support during their unemployment period since the unemployment insurance system became effective.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

Over 2500 Companies

Are registered in the Labour Accomodation System.
The Labour Accomodation System contributes towards raising awareness among companies about labour housing requirements and standards to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of workers.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

1.9 million Workers

Reside in labour accomodation facilities that meet highest standards of comfort, health, and safety.
Labour accomodation units are mandated to provide uninterrupted supply of sanitary and cold water.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

292 violations

Recorded in labour accomodation facilities.
Labour accomodation units are required to adhere to the standards of health, comfort, cleanliness, safety, ventilation, air conditioning, and sanitation services.

Review Date: November 13, 2025

Learn about the best practices in labor housing and the winners of the Emirates Award for Leadership in the Labor Market