Ministry welcome for new permit rule

Clear signatures will be required next year during the contract and work permit renewal process, and the Ministry of Labour expects it to improve relationships between employees and their employers.

New Ministry of Labour rules are expected to improve relationships between employers and employees.

From the beginning of next year, new decrees will require the “clear signature” of an employee for the renewal of his or her contract and the issuing of new work permits, said Humaid bin Deemas Al Suwaidi, assistant under-secretary for labour affairs, according to the state news agency, Wam.

This is hoped to put an end to current work permit renewal procedures that simply follow notification from employers. Workers will have better options to accept the renewal of their contracts according to privileges and stipulated requirements, or to amend the conditions and privileges upon agreement by both parties.

This “actively contributes to promoting a strong working relationship”, and enables employees to leave their positions, search for alternatives or return home, Mr Al Suwaidi said.