Latest news with #UAEMinistryofHumanResourcesandEmiratisation
Time of India
2 days ago
- 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Products found on supermarket shelves without Nutri-Mark, which grades the nutritional content of a food item, will be withdrawn and concerned parties will be fined.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.
Filipino Times
20-04-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Wages Protection System: Why it matters for OFWs and how it protects your salary
For many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE, payday isn't just about collecting a salary—it's about making sure families back home are provided for, bills are paid, and dreams for a better future are kept alive. That's why getting paid on time and in full matters so much. Good thing the UAE has the Wages Protection System (WPS)—a system designed to make sure workers, especially OFWs like you, are treated fairly when it comes to salary. What is the WPS? The WPS is an electronic salary transfer system launched by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), designed to ensure that workers receive their full wages on time. It ensures that private sector workers receive their full wages on time via banks, exchange offices, or other financial institutions authorized by the Central Bank of the UAE. No more waiting around for envelopes or unclear payments. With WPS, your salary goes straight into your bank account—safe, secure, and documented. And here's a big deal: 99% of workers in the UAE are already receiving their salaries through WPS, according to MoHRE. That's proof that the system works and is widely trusted. Who is required to use WPS? All companies registered with MoHRE are legally required to use the WPS to process their employees' salaries. Just recently, the ministry extended WPS coverage to include five domestic worker professions, particularly personal health care provider, personal trainer, private agriculture engineer, personal tutor, and personal public relations officer (PRO). When should salaries be paid? According to the law, your salary should be paid no later than 15 days after the due date stated in your contract. So, if you're supposed to be paid at the end of the month, your employer has until the 15th of the next month to transfer your wages. But if your contract says you should be paid earlier—or more frequently—then your employer has to follow that agreement. If there's no specific payday mentioned, employers must pay at least once a month. No skipping. No delays. What happens if employers don't pay on time? If an employer fails to pay wages by the due date, the system sends an electronic reminder on the 3rd and 10th day after the due date. If there's still no action by the 17th day, the company will be blocked from issuing new work permits and face salary-related restrictions until the delayed wages are paid. Why it's important for OFWs? For OFWs, the WPS brings something priceless: peace of mind. You know your salary will arrive on time. You get exactly what's agreed in your contract. And if something goes wrong, the system is on your side. But it's not just about protecting workers. The WPS also helps employers follow labor laws, makes the workplace clearer, and builds trust with employees, protecting both parties.
