Latest news with #UAEMinistryofHumanResourcesandEmiratisation
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
40 UAE domestic worker agencies busted for 140+ violations: Why using the wrong agency could cost you
Hiring from unlicensed agencies risks safety because workers may lack screening, medical checks, and legal contracts, exposing families to harm/ Representative Image The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has cracked down on 40 Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices found to have committed around 140 violations of the Labour Law and its Implementing Regulations within the first half of 2025. These violations prompted the ministry to impose strict administrative and financial penalties, reinforcing its commitment to uphold labour market standards and protect both employers and domestic workers. MoHRE emphasized that it will show no leniency towards recruitment offices proven guilty of legal or administrative violations. The ministry warned that repeat offenders risk facing even harsher penalties, including the cancellation of their licenses, signaling a zero-tolerance approach. In a press statement, MoHRE highlighted that it continuously monitors recruitment offices through a combination of field inspections and digital systems. This ongoing supervision is designed to sustain labour market regulations, boost the competitiveness and professionalism of recruitment offices, and swiftly address complaints from employers and families. Key Violations and Compliance Efforts Most of the violations recorded by MoHRE were related to the failure to refund recruitment fees, either in full or partially, within the legally mandated two-week period. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Elegant New Scooters For Seniors In 2024: The Prices May Surprise You Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Learn More Undo This refund is required when a domestic worker is returned to the agency or stops working for the employer. Additional infringements included failure to clearly display ministry-approved service package prices, a breach that affects transparency for clients. MoHRE underscored that its inspection system is fully equipped to handle violations seriously, with transparency and firmness. The ministry urged customers to report any negative experiences or malpractice by recruitment offices via dedicated digital channels or by calling the Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre at 80084. To protect themselves, the ministry encouraged the public to deal only with licensed recruitment offices, warning that unlicensed operators can lead to legal and financial risks. Despite the crackdown, MoHRE praised the majority of recruitment offices for maintaining high service standards. These offices provide diverse service packages at reasonable prices in full compliance with laws and regulations, contributing to the sector's growth and leadership in the UAE. The Importance of Licensed Agencies and Public Advisory MoHRE reiterated the crucial role licensed recruitment agencies play in the domestic worker sector. They ensure that employers have access to: Verified, trained, and qualified domestic workers Recruitment packages that fully comply with UAE laws and standards The ministry issued a public advisory urging Emirati and resident families to avoid unlicensed recruitment offices and social media platforms advertising domestic worker services. These unregulated sources pose significant legal, health, and safety risks. To facilitate safe recruitment, MoHRE released an updated list of licensed domestic worker recruitment centers, now totaling 128 across the UAE: 41 in Abu Dhabi 41 in Dubai 5 in Sharjah city 1 in Kalba 2 in Khorfakkan 19 in Ajman 13 in Ras Al Khaimah 4 in Fujairah city 1 in Dibba 1 in Masafi This extensive network ensures that residents have access to trustworthy, professional, and legally compliant services, strengthening accountability and standards within the domestic labor sector. Combating Illegal Recruitment on Social Media In a related enforcement action, earlier this week, the UAE authorities shut down 77 social media accounts promoting domestic worker recruitment without approval from MoHRE during the first half of 2025. The ministry warned that hiring domestic workers through unlicensed sources exposes families to multiple risks. Key reasons why illegal hiring is problematic include: Loss of legal protection: Without a formal contract, employers are vulnerable to theft, injury, or disputes without recourse. No worker screening: Unlicensed recruiters do not perform background checks or medical clearances, jeopardizing safety and compliance. Potential liability: Employers may be legally responsible if the worker causes harm or damage, and they could face legal action. Guidance for Employers on Safe Recruitment MoHRE advises employers to: Use only licensed agencies listed on the ministry's official website. Avoid hiring through social media platforms such as WhatsApp or Instagram unless credentials are verified. Report suspicious activities via the ministry's helpline at 600590000. Hiring outside the official channels can lead to serious issues such as theft, property damage, injury, and legal complications with insurance or compensation claims. The ministry's message is clear: safeguarding your family and legal rights depends on engaging with approved recruitment offices.
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE's upcoming fines and fees in 2025: Everything you need to know
From stricter Emiratisation penalties to new nutrition grading rules: wave of updated fines and regulations in 2025/Representative Image TL;DR: Stricter Emiratisation fines for private firms came into force in July 2025. New nutrition labelling rules on packaged food products. Salik (toll) system expansion in Dubai, with new gates operational since June 2025. Expected changes to parking fees and privacy regulations to be announced later in 2025. As UAE progresses with Vision 2030 initiatives, a series of new fines, fees, and regulatory changes are taking effect in 2025 directly impacting expats and businesses in the emirate. From enhanced Emiratisation penalties to updated food safety regulations, the UAE continues to recalibrate its legal landscape to align with social, economic, and sustainability goals. June to December 2025 is seeing multiple policy rollouts that residents and expats alike need to monitor closely, particularly with financial penalties for non-compliance now significantly higher than before. Higher Emiratisation Fines for Private Companies (July 2025) Effective July 2025, the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has increased fines for private sector firms that fail to meet Emiratisation targets. Companies with 50 or more employees must ensure that at least 4% of their workforce comprises UAE nationals by the end of 2025. Non-compliance fines: AED 96,000 per unfulfilled Emirati hire, up from AED 84,000 in 2024. MoHRE confirmed the new penalty structure in its June 2025 circular. The government continues to incentivise firms to comply through the Nafis programme, providing salary support and training for Emirati employees. Nutrition grading system From June 1, mandatory nutrition grades must be placed on food items as part of a new labelling system launched by quality control and health officials in Abu Dhabi. Products found on supermarket shelves without Nutri-Mark, which grades the nutritional content of a food item, will be withdrawn and concerned parties will be fined. This will also apply to items that are displaying a higher grading than they should. Nutri-Mark grades the nutritious value of a certain item from A to E, with A being the most healthy. The first phase of the new scheme applies to baked goods, oils, dairy, children's food and beverages. Salik Toll System Expansion : New Gates Operational Since June 2025 Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched two new Salik gates in June 2025 to manage traffic congestion: Business Bay Crossing Al Khail Road near Dubai Hills Each crossing deducts AED 4 per pass, similar to existing Salik gates. The RTA states that the expansion is designed to alleviate congestion on alternative routes and enhance traffic flow into the city's core commercial districts. Potential Parking Fee Reforms: Expected Q4 2025 Dubai's Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) is currently reviewing city-wide parking fee structures, with adjustments expected by the end of 2025. The changes may include: Dynamic pricing based on demand zones Extended paid parking hours in high-traffic areas Adjustments to seasonal parking permits UAE's Privacy Law Enhancements: Rollout by December 2025 The UAE's updated Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) is set for full implementation by December 2025, impacting how private companies collect, store, and use customer data. Key provisions include: Mandatory data protection officers for firms handling sensitive data Enhanced opt-out rights for users Strict breach reporting timelines (72 hours) Penalties for non-compliance can reach up to AED 1 million, as stipulated by the UAE Data Office in its May 2025 compliance guidelines. Verdict Dubai's evolving regulatory landscape in 2025 reflects its broader socio-economic strategies under Vision 2030. Expats and businesses alike must stay informed on these key changes: Higher Emiratisation fines already in place Nutrition grading system New Salik gates operational Upcoming parking reforms in Q4 Stricter data privacy enforcement by year-end By staying compliant, residents and companies can avoid steep penalties while contributing to UAE's vision of a more sustainable, health-conscious, and digitized society.
Al Etihad
03-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE to implement Midday Break from June 15 - September 15, marking its 21st year of implementation in 2025
3 June 2025 15:42 ABU DHABI (WAM)The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the implementation of the Midday Break, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm every day, from June 15 until September 15, in its 21st consecutive year, the Midday Break is rooted in a sustainability-centred approach that the UAE implements in line with its commitment to providing a safe working environment, as per international best practices, and occupational health and safety protects workers from injuries and illnesses caused by working in high temperatures during the summer Ali Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection & Compliance at MoHRE said, 'The Midday Break has achieved a record compliance rate of more than 99% for several years in a row, in a clear indication of the firmly entrenched social and humanitarian values among the business community and private sector companies in the UAE. "This also highlights the high level of awareness regarding the need to protect human capital - the most valuable resource in any company - reflecting the commendable and people-centred nature of labour regulations and practices embraced in the UAE, especially with regards to occupational health and safety.'Al Nassi highlighted the Ministry's commitment to raising awareness among establishments and their workers about the importance of adhering to the provisions of the Midday Break through field visits by inspectors to workplaces and labour accommodations. This contributes to enhancing awareness of occupational health and safety requirements and protecting workers from heat-related her part, Dalal Alshehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, said, 'The Midday Break has become a prime example of constructive partnerships between the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the private sector, and the wider community, with many partners developing their own initiatives to support workers while the Midday Break is in effect,' Alshehhi added.'This reinforces the principle of social responsibility and ensures the success of our awareness strategies, further embedding humanitarian values in the UAE's work environment, which welcomes more than 200 nationalities to live, work, and invest, in line with the objectives of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision," Al Shehhi commended private sector establishments taking the initiative over recent years to provide fully equipped rest areas designed to ensure workers' utmost comfort during the daily Midday Break, and thus demonstrating the establishments' strong commitment to ensuring workers' wellbeing before they resume their daily duties after the urged all private sector establishments to adopt similar initiatives, which have a positive impact on workers' health and contribute to enhanced productivity. Break Requirements Under the terms of the Midday Break, companies are required to provide necessary supplies and arrangements, including shaded areas to protect workers from the sun during the break or while performing permitted must also ensure appropriate cooling equipment is available, such as fans, adequate quantities of drinking water, and hydration supplements like electrolytes as approved for use by local authorities, along with other amenities and first-aid supplies at the worksite. Exemptions The Midday Break regulations take into account the need for continuity in certain types of work that serve public interests. Exemptions apply to tasks that must continue uninterrupted for technical reasons, such as laying asphalt or pouring concrete when it is unfeasible to complete these activities after the exclusions include work required to address hazards or repair issues that impact the community, such as disruptions to water or electricity supply, traffic congestion, and malfunctions in basic exemption also covers activities that require a permit from a competent government authority due to their impact on public life and works to assess the level of compliance with the Midday Break requirements among companies, using its monitoring system throughout the duration of the the Ministry welcomes reports of harmful practices or violations flagged by members of the community through its call centre at 600590000, website, or smart warned that violating companies will be fined Dh5,000 for every worker per breach, up to a maximum of Dh50,000 if several workers were found to be in violation. The Ministry will also escalate its awareness campaigns and field visits, in coordination with its public and private sector partners, to educate workers and employers about the provisions of the Midday Break and the necessity to comply with regulations in that regard.
Express Tribune
05-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Here's how foreign workers can apply for work permits in UAE
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) has issued a fresh reminder to employers across the country: companies must obtain the appropriate work permits before hiring foreign workers. The move is part of the government's broader effort to streamline recruitment while safeguarding the integrity of the UAE labour market. The work permit system is designed to facilitate the legal employment of overseas professionals and is essential for companies seeking to bring international talent into the private sector. The ministry has simplified the permit application process, allowing employers to apply electronically through the Mohre website using either login credentials or UAE Pass digital identity. Once the application is submitted, it undergoes compliance checks by Mohre. If approved, an entry permit is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), enabling the worker to enter the country. Upon arrival, the worker must complete medical tests, register for an Emirates ID, and proceed with the issuance of a formal employment contract through Mohre. Crucially, a signed job offer must accompany the initial application. The ministry reiterated that employing individuals on a visit visa is illegal and carries severe penalties ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million. Authorities stress that violators will face strict legal action. Mohre also reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing smart services, with the goal of making the UAE labour market more flexible and competitive. Currently, there are 13 types of work permits tailored for various private sector employment schemes. To ensure a smooth application process, employers must provide: A recent, colour photograph with white background A passport valid for at least six months A job offer signed by both parties Relevant academic certificates, based on the role's skill level A professional license for regulated professions (e.g., doctors, teachers) National ID copies for workers from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Iran Skill levels are classified from 1 to 9, with documentation requirements ranging from a Bachelor's degree to no formal education for lower levels. To be eligible for a work permit, companies must hold a valid electronic quota and an active trade licence free of violations. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, and the request must be submitted by an authorised company representative. Applicants must also not have any existing active work permit. Fee Structure The application fee is set at Dh50. The cost for a two-year work permit depends on the employment category: Category 1: Dh250 Category 2: Dh1,200 Category 3: Dh3,450 Additional charges may apply for service centres, capped at Dh72 per service. Tracking and Support Employers can track applications via the Mohre website, the Mohre Smart App, or by contacting the call centre at 600590000. A chatbot is also available for assistance. The initiative is part of the UAE's continued effort to modernise its labour regulations and attract skilled global talent in a transparent and lawful manner.
Filipino Times
28-04-2025
- Health
- Filipino Times
MOHRE: Employers must pay for treatment of work injuries, occupational diseases
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) reminded employers that they are responsible for paying for the treatment of their workers in case of work injuries or illnesses. MOHRE posted the reminder through its official Facebook page as part of its efforts to raise awareness among workers and companies. According to MOHRE, if a worker suffers from a work injury or an occupational disease, the employer must cover the full cost of treatment and compensate the worker accordingly. MOHRE's website defines occupational diseases as health problems caused by work conditions, meaning the illness 'must have developed due to exposures in the workplace.' Examples of these are lung issues from construction dust or hearing problems from loud factory machines. The compensation amount for the injured worker is based on their last basic salary. MOHRE clarified that workers should receive their compensation within 10 days after a medical report is issued stating the degree of their disability, if any. In case of an incident, the employer must notify the medical authorities, the local police station in their area, and the Ministry itself. The Ministry must be informed within 48 hours after the employer, or their legal representative, becomes aware of a suspected occupational disease or injury. Failure to report work-related injuries, deaths, or occupational diseases will result in a fine of AED 10,000 per case and the suspension of the facility's operations.
