Everything we know about the new Dubai work law

The government human resources law will have widespread benefits for employees

Over half of those surveyed said that “higher salaries and improved perks and benefits” would boost their motivation at work. Paulo Vecina / The National

The Dubai government has rolled out a new human resources law - and there is a raft of benefits for workers in the city.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, approved the revamped legislation on Sunday.

Here is everything we know about the new law, and how it will impact those in government roles.

More days off: The revised law increases the amount of annual leave for grade 8 employees from 22 days to 25, with grade 7 workers getting a  rise in leave to 18 days from the previous 15 days.

Out of office: The law has introduced a new "working from afar" option, which will allow employees to work remotely without necessarily being present in the office. This will boost many people, such as parents of young children and those facing long commutes.

Just the ticket: Workers can now receive ticket allowances on flights for children aged up to 21. Previously, the threshold was for children aged up to 18.  Ticket allowance for Emirati employees was limited to three children, but now it will be open to include all children.

Work your way up: The new legislation also gives employees the chance to receive promotions based on their assessment results, as opposed to the previous procedure that required a number of experience certificates to facilitate appraisals.

Inside track: Employees can now apply for any internal vacancy within their organisation, and they can be assigned to the new post even if it were at a higher level without having to meet promotion criteria.

Extra hours: Workers will now be eligible to receive overtime compensation simply by getting the approval of their line manager.

Lessen the load: Employees with special needs can get a reduced working hours contract, as long as they receive the required approval from Dubai's medical committee.

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Read more:
New Dubai workplace law provides more annual leave and promotion opportunities

New UAE labour insurance policy protects expat workers from job loss

UAE in push to tackle exploitation in recruitment, at home and abroad

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