UAE worker protection schemes pay out more than Dh832 million in H1 2026

The UAE’s worker protection programmes paid out more than Dh832 million in compensation and unemployment benefits during the first half of 2026, as the government strengthened measures aimed at protecting labour rights and supporting workers’ financial security.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said more than 44,000 workers benefited from the Workers Protection Programme, receiving over Dh320 million in compensation by the end of June.

Separately, the Unemployment Insurance Scheme paid more than Dh512 million to workers who lost their jobs between the beginning of 2024 and the end of the first half of 2026.

MoHRE said the figures reflect its efforts to build a safe, stable and sustainable labour market while protecting workers’ financial entitlements and improving workplace wellbeing.

Dalal Alshehhi, Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, said the results demonstrate the ministry’s focus on creating a working environment that protects workers while maintaining a balance with employers’ rights.

“The positive results recorded in the first half of 2026 reflect our commitment at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to fostering a safe, stable, and sustainable work environment,” she said.

She added that the ministry is working with federal and local government entities as well as private-sector employers to strengthen compliance with labour legislation and improve worker protection.

MoHRE said around 800,000 workers participated in celebrations and social activities held at more than 60 locations across the UAE during the first half of the year. The initiatives were organised with government and private-sector partners to support worker wellbeing and social inclusion.

The ministry also reported progress in its worker awareness programmes, which are delivered in 17 languages.

More than 1.3 million workers benefited from specialised awareness programmes covering their rights, responsibilities and workplace regulations, while all targeted workers completed mandatory guidance courses.

MoHRE said cooperation with private-sector establishments remains important in promoting social responsibility and compliance with worker protection standards.

The ministry’s digital and field inspection systems have also supported implementation of the Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, which runs from June 15 to September 15.

More than 12,000 rest stations are planned for delivery riders during the period, providing designated spaces for workers to rest and recover from high temperatures.

Worker welfare measures have also extended to labour accommodation. More than 2,800 accommodation facilities were registered in MoHRE’s Labour Accommodation System by the end of June, providing housing for around two million workers.

The facilities are required to meet standards covering health, safety and living conditions.

MoHRE said the first-half results demonstrate the effectiveness of the UAE’s broader labour protection framework and support the country’s objectives under the We the UAE 2031 vision.