Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial center in Abu Dhabi, has announced new updates to its employment rules. These changes aim to improve workplace rights and make working arrangements more flexible. The revised rules, called the Employment Regulations 2024, will come into effect on April 1, 2025, giving businesses enough time to adjust their policies.
The ADGM Registration Authority (RA), which manages and oversees the financial center, has introduced these updates to reflect modern workplace trends and provide clearer guidelines for both employers and employees. The changes are designed to create a better working environment, attract a wider talent pool, and address common workplace issues.
Here are the key updates to the Employment Regulations:
- Flexible Hiring and Working Arrangements:
Employers now have the option to hire remote workers and offer more flexible working conditions. This change is expected to help companies attract talent from different regions and provide employees with better remote work opportunities. - Clear Employee Rights:
The new regulations clarify the rights of employees, including those working part-time. This ensures fair treatment and guarantees clear entitlements for all workers. - Simplified Work Permit and Visa Processes:
Businesses will now have clearer guidance on how to obtain and cancel work permits and visas. This will make it easier for companies to manage administrative requirements. - Stronger Anti-Discrimination Measures:
Employers will face stricter obligations to prevent discrimination and victimization in the workplace. This is aimed at fostering a more inclusive and fair working environment for all.
These updates replace the Employment Regulations 2019 and provide a more straightforward framework for employers to follow. Businesses operating within ADGM are encouraged to start revising their internal policies, employment contracts, and workplace procedures to meet the new requirements.
Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of the ADGM Registration Authority, highlighted the importance of these changes. He stated, “The Employment Regulations 2024 represent our commitment to improving the ecosystem at ADGM. They provide a modern regulatory framework that benefits both businesses and employees. These updates reflect ADGM’s vision of fostering growth, innovation, and inclusivity in workplace systems.”
Al Mazrouei also emphasized that the new regulations are designed to ensure stability and fairness for all stakeholders. By addressing key workplace issues, ADGM aims to create an environment that supports innovation and growth while prioritizing employee welfare.
The introduction of these regulations demonstrates ADGM’s dedication to building a forward-thinking business environment in Abu Dhabi. Companies are advised to start aligning their policies with the new rules to ensure full compliance by the April 2025 deadline. This proactive approach will not only help businesses adapt to the changes but also contribute to a stronger and more inclusive workforce within ADGM.
