The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has introduced updated labour accommodation standards for employers with 50 or more eligible low wage workers in UAE. The new requirements came into effect under Ministerial Resolution No. 122 of 2026 and set higher standards for housing, health, safety, welfare and digital access.
The ministry issued the Resolution to consolidate existing accommodation rules while replacing accommodation related provisions under Ministerial Resolution No. 44 of 2022, as amended, and Ministerial Resolution No. 516 of 2024.
New labour accommodation standards in the UAE
The updated rules apply to employers with 50 or more workers whose monthly wages do not exceed AED 1,500. The ministry said commission based employees in occupational level 5 or above do not fall within the wage threshold.
Employers that meet the criteria must provide accommodation in MoHRE approved and registered labour housing. Employers must also keep accommodation records and worker information accurate and updated within the ministry’s systems.
The Resolution also allows local authorities to widen the scope. Authorities may lower the workforce threshold or increase the wage cap within their respective Emirates.
Worker welfare and accommodation requirements
The Resolution introduces new minimum standards that focus on worker wellbeing and living conditions.
Employers must provide dedicated facilities for People of Determination and for workers who are injured or unwell. Employers must also display multilingual information on workers’ rights, responsibilities and health and safety practices.
In addition, employers must hold regular awareness sessions. The ministry also expects employers to encourage workers to take part in official and recreational activities.
The updated standards require better living facilities. Employers must provide adequate ventilation and air filtration systems and maintain accommodation through specialised contractors.
The Resolution also requires employers to supply cold drinking water. Accommodation must provide at least one water cooler for every 30 workers. Employers must also ensure access to food supplies or prepared meals where nearby retail outlets are unavailable.
Digital access and accommodation infrastructure
The updated rules introduce new infrastructure requirements across labour accommodation facilities.
Accommodation providers must install enough lifts to meet workers’ needs. Providers must also supply secure personal lockers and offer free internet access throughout accommodation sites.
The Resolution also requires electronic information screens in common areas. These screens will help employers communicate important updates to residents.
Health, safety and worker communication
The ministry has expanded health and safety requirements under the new Resolution.
Employers must display complaint channels and the contact details of relevant authorities in visible locations. Employers must also provide workers with an electronic access point to the Labour Consultations and Claims Centre.
The Resolution requires accommodation providers to arrange 24 hour security through licensed companies. Providers must also install CCTV systems that cover entrances and common areas.
In addition, employers must appoint at least one accommodation supervisor for every 200 workers. Specialised contractors must carry out regular cleaning across accommodation facilities.
Compliance and employer responsibilities
Accommodation owners must register accommodation details and resident worker information with MoHRE. Owners must also keep those records up to date.
The ministry may suspend accommodation files if employers submit inaccurate information or fail to meet regulatory requirements. According to the Resolution, repeated breaches or incidents that lead to labour stoppages may also result in administrative action.
Impact on labour intensive sectors
The updated requirements are expected to affect employers in construction, manufacturing, industrial services and facilities management. These sectors employ large numbers of eligible low wage workers.
Employers in these industries may need to review accommodation arrangements, health and safety measures, worker communication processes and compliance records. The updated standards aim to improve worker welfare while strengthening accommodation compliance across labour intensive workplaces.
