Policy update

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Outlines Automated Notifications and Enforcement Actions for Delayed Salaries

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced that private-sector employers will receive automated notifications before administrative measures take effect under the Wage Protection System. Officials clarified that the decision introduces a gradual enforcement approach without imposing new substantive legal obligations. The standardized framework is designed to detect delayed wages early across more than 600,000 registered companies.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Capital Markets Authority Overhauls Regulatory Framework to Support Market Growth

The UAE's Capital Markets Authority has shifted its mandate from an enforcement watchdog to an economic enabler supporting market expansion. Following an 18-month reform period, the authority completely rewrote its statutory framework and harmonized rules with the Dubai Financial Services Authority and Abu Dhabi Global Market's Financial Services Regulatory Authority. The regulator expects the alignment to strengthen market stability and draw major international financial institutions.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Labour Regulations Clarify Unused Annual Leave Entitlements Upon Resignation

Private-sector employees in the UAE are entitled to cash compensation for accrued, untaken annual leave when resigning or leaving a job, according to UAE Labour Law guidance published by Gulf News. Payouts for unused leave in final settlements are calculated on the worker's basic salary rather than total compensation. Regulations also permit carrying forward up to half of an annual leave balance or receiving cash in lieu upon agreement with the employer.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Outlines 10-Year Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria for Exceptional Talent Categories

The UAE has released qualifying criteria for its 10-year Golden Visa covering creative, scientific, sports, and specialized professional fields. According to the Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Authority, the scheme grants renewable decade-long residency to eligible applicants and their families without a national sponsor. Specialized professionals must earn at least AED 30,000 monthly, hold a bachelor's degree, and carry comprehensive health insurance.