The UAE’s worker protection schemes paid more than Dh832 million in compensation and unemployment benefits in the first half of 2026. The payouts came as the government stepped up efforts to protect labour rights and strengthen workers’ financial security.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said more than 44,000 workers received over Dh320 million through the Workers Protection Programme by the end of June.
Meanwhile, the UAE Unemployment Insurance Scheme paid more than Dh512 million to workers who lost their jobs between the start of 2024 and the end of June 2026.
UAE worker protection programmes expand
MoHRE said the figures reflect its efforts to build a safe and stable labour market. The ministry is also working to protect workers’ financial rights and improve workplace wellbeing.
Dalal Alshehhi, Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, said the results highlight the UAE’s focus on worker protection.
“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,” Alshehhi said.
She added that MoHRE is working with federal and local government bodies, as well as private-sector employers, to improve compliance with labour laws.
More than 1.3 million workers receive awareness support
Alongside financial support, MoHRE has expanded programmes that help workers understand their rights and responsibilities.
More than 1.3 million workers took part in specialised awareness programmes during the first half of 2026. The programmes cover workplace regulations, worker rights and employee responsibilities.
The ministry delivers these programmes in 17 languages. In addition, all targeted workers completed mandatory guidance courses.
The UAE also held social and community activities for workers. Around 800,000 workers took part in events at more than 60 locations across the country.
MoHRE organised these activities with government bodies and private-sector partners. The programmes aim to support worker wellbeing and social inclusion.
UAE expands heat-stress protection for workers
Worker safety remains another focus during the summer months.
MoHRE’s Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy runs from June 15 to September 15. The policy uses digital systems and field inspections to support compliance.
As part of the measures, more than 12,000 rest stations are planned for delivery riders during the summer period.
These stations give riders designated spaces to rest and recover from high temperatures.
Labour accommodation covers around 2 million workers
The UAE is also strengthening standards for worker accommodation.
By the end of June, more than 2,800 accommodation facilities had registered with MoHRE’s Labour Accommodation System. Together, these facilities provide housing for around two million workers.
The facilities must meet requirements covering health, safety and living conditions.
MoHRE said these measures form part of the UAE’s wider labour protection framework. The ministry also linked the initiatives to the country’s We the UAE 2031 vision.
What the UAE worker protection figures mean
The first-half figures point to a broader focus on financial and workplace security for workers.
The Dh320 million paid through the Workers Protection Programme provides compensation to eligible workers. The Dh512 million paid through unemployment insurance offers temporary financial support after job losses.
At the same time, awareness programmes, heat-stress measures and accommodation standards address other parts of the employee experience.
Together, these initiatives show how the UAE is combining financial protection with workplace safety and labour-law compliance.
