Policy Changes Adopted by UAE Cabinet

Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”) and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE Cabinet has adopted several sweeping reforms namely concerning foreign workers’ insurance in the private sector and visa facilitations.  
 
NEW INSURANCE SCHEME
The Cabinet introduced a new insurance scheme for foreign workers in the private sector. Previously, it was mandatorily for employers to deposit a guarantee requirement of AED 3,000/- per employee. The new reform introduces a new comprehensive worker insurance scheme of AED 60/- per worker only, granting an insurance coverage up to AED 20,000/- that would include work injuries, remuneration for extra hours, plane ticket, vacation allowance and end-of-service benefits.
 
VISA FACILITATION 
The Cabinet also introduced facilitation reforms for residents, visitors and/or people overstaying their visa in the UAE which includes - and is not limited to - a chance to voluntarily depart without a “No Entry” passport stamp.
Further, the Cabinet passed a decision allowing the adjustment of visa status(es) in the UAE without having to leave and re-enter the country and the possibility to stay in the country for up to six (6) consecutive months.
 
TRANSIT TOURISTS 
In addition to all above, the Cabinet has also approved a decision to exempt passengers in transit from all entry fee(s) for the first forty-eight (48) hours which can be extended up to ninety-six (96) hour(s) for a fee of AED 50/-. Further, the process of obtaining a transit visa is anticipated to be facilitated by the formation of express counter(s) across airports in the UAE.
Source: Dubai Media Office
 
STAY UPDATED
Should there be any further and/or additional developments, we shall write further. In the meantime, should you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Corporate & Commercial Team which would be pleased to cater to your queries and be of any service and/or support.
To receive key legal updates and ensure accurate implementation of the law, rules and regulations in UAE, subscribe to TLG’s legal updates and newsletter by visiting our website, www.tlg.ae.