UAE MOHRE Issues Labour Market Report and Employer Disciplinary Guidance

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has published its Labour Market Observatory Report alongside updated legal guidance on private-sector disciplinary procedures.

According to the report, the total UAE workforce grew by 12.4% in 2025 and recorded an additional 2.3% growth during the third quarter of 2026. Emirati women now represent 71.6% of all skilled UAE nationals employed within private firms, and 57% of UAE nationals working across digital economy and information technology roles.

Alongside the statistical release, MOHRE's Litigation and Grievances Section highlighted legal restrictions governing employer disciplinary authority under national labour laws. The authority stated that employers do not hold unchecked discretion when imposing disciplinary measures on staff.

MOHRE clarified that disciplinary penalties must strictly consider employee intent, the severity of the infraction, and the direct operational consequences on the business. Additionally, UAE labour regulations mandate that employers provide an experience certificate upon contract expiration or termination regardless of whether an employee was dismissed.