Ministry reminds companies of decree on free housing for low-paid workers

Companies hiring more than 50 workers earning less than Dh2,000 a month must provide free accommodations for them.

ABU DHABI // Companies have been reminded of their responsibility to house low-paid workers for free.

Establishments hiring more than 50 workers earning less than Dh2,000 a month must provide free accommodation for them, according to a Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation decree that comes into force from December.

Saqr Ghobash, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, said the decree came following recent studies related to the labour market.

“Experts spent several months studying the living conditions of those workers, who have been listed in the ministry’s classifications system as low-skill labourers,” Mr Ghobash said.

The ministry will also inspect facilities to ensure that housing standards for workers are met, and take action against violators.