This year, the UAE has introduced several new rules impacting residents and businesses. Here’s an overview:
Notice period rules
The UAE has revised its rules on notice periods and contract termination. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), both employers and employees can terminate a contract if they adhere to its terms and conditions. Notice periods must range from 30 to 90 days, during which employees are required to continue performing their duties. Notice period allowances are based on the employee’s most recent wage.
Article 44 of the UAE Labour Law allows for immediate termination without notice under specific conditions, such as:
– Submitting false documents
– Causing significant material loss to the employer
– Violating safety instructions
– Failing to perform basic duties
– Divulging company secrets
– Being intoxicated at work
– Assaulting colleagues
– Unauthorised absenteeism
– Misusing position for personal gain
– Joining another establishment without following procedures
Golden visa requirements
Dubai has updated its Golden Visa requirements to boost the real estate market. Property investors now qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa by owning property worth AED 2 million ($545,000) or more, regardless of the down payment amount or the property’s status.
E-Scooter ban on public transport
Starting March 1, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) banned e-scooters on the Dubai Metro and Tram trains to ensure public safety. Bicycles must comply with luggage size regulations and be stored in designated areas.
Ban on single-use plastic bags
From June 1, Dubai banned single-use plastic bags, except for packaging meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, grains, bread, and garbage bags. This initiative aims to phase out single-use products.
Paid parking at Dubai Mall
Parking at Dubai Mall will become a paid service with an automated, barrier-free system using vehicle plate recognition. The payment will be deducted from the customer’s Salik user account and is expected to roll out in the third quarter of 2024.
New telemarketing rules
The UAE has introduced new regulations for telemarketing calls, effective mid-August 2024. Companies face fines up to Dh150,000 for violations. Telemarketers must contact customers only between 9 AM and 6 PM, cannot call again if the offer is refused, and can only call once a day or twice a week if there’s no answer. Calls must use local numbers registered under the company license.
Emiratisation
From the beginning of 2024, companies with 20 to 49 employees in 14 key economic activities must meet new Emiratisation targets. This involves hiring at least one Emirati in 2024 and another in 2025. Over 12,000 companies are required to comply with this decision.
Labour regulation amendments
Amendments to Federal Law No. 20 of 2023, effective from January 2024, aim to enhance the UAE’s labour market competitiveness. The MOHRE now resolves disputes involving amounts of AED 50,000 ($13,600) or less in private sector establishments, expediting the process for claimants to collect their entitlements.
Heavy vehicle regulations
The UAE will ban heavy vehicles exceeding a total weight of 65 tons from using its roads to preserve infrastructure and improve road safety. However, the implementation of this regulation has been postponed.
These new rules reflect the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance regulatory frameworks, support economic growth, and ensure safety and fairness in various sectors.
You can check out the original article on Arabian Business here.
