UAE: 1,000% increase in number of private firms complying with labour accommodation rules

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has unveiled the latest iteration of the Labour Accommodation System, marking the inception of the nation’s premier platform for registering workers’ accommodation facilities. The platform serves as a comprehensive resource for companies nationwide, showcasing compliant accommodation units that adhere to the established standards and regulations of the Ministry and its governmental collaborators.

This groundbreaking initiative is geared towards elevating the quality of life and well-being of workers in the UAE. The overarching goal is to reinforce the country’s standing as a leading global destination for residence, work, and investment.

MoHRE has explicitly called upon companies with 50 or more employees to provide accommodation for their workforce through approved systems. The required data for registration can be submitted on the Ministry’s website (www.mohre.gov.ae) by accessing the Labour Accommodation System under the ‘Services’ icon. This directive aligns with Ministerial Resolution No. 44 of 2022, focusing on Occupational Health and Safety and Labour Accommodation.

A surge in compliance among companies with labour accommodation standards and conditions has been observed, attributed to the online Labour Accommodation System, periodic inspection campaigns, and continuous efforts to ensure companies meet their obligations. Legal actions are taken against non-compliant companies, subjecting them to closer scrutiny until corrective measures are implemented, according to MoHRE.

The Ministry emphasized the success of its partnership with the private sector and awareness campaigns targeting business owners. This collaborative approach has led to a notable improvement in compliance levels.

By the close of 2023, the Ministry reported a remarkable 1000% increase in the number of private sector companies adhering to labour accommodation standards and being registered in the Labour Accommodation System, compared to February 2022 when Ministerial Decision No. 44 of 2022 became effective.

MoHRE underlined the significance of companies’ commitment to labour accommodation standards, citing it as indicative of growing employer awareness regarding the importance of compliance with legislation that safeguards workers’ well-being, thereby enhancing overall productivity.

Collaborative efforts among government entities have played a pivotal role in fostering compliance. In 2023 alone, a total of 103 inspection campaigns were conducted in collaboration with four federal and local government entities. These campaigns aimed to ensure that companies and owners of labour accommodation facilities adhere to the standards set by the Ministry, guaranteeing health, safety, and suitable living conditions for workers, ultimately contributing to an enhanced quality of life and well-being.

To streamline monitoring efforts, MoHRE has established national databases for labour accommodations in collaboration with relevant federal and local government entities. This cooperative approach seeks to optimize efforts in overseeing the working environment and living standards for workers.

MoHRE’s approach involves a comprehensive system for labour accommodation standards, contributing to the competitiveness and attractiveness of the UAE’s labour market. The focus is on promoting workers’ well-being, implementing health and safety conditions, ensuring comfort, and solidifying the country’s global leadership in these areas.

Legislation concerning labour accommodation standards encompasses a holistic set of criteria, encompassing health, comfort, and safety standards. This includes ensuring that accommodation buildings and locations are suitable for living, displaying company names in both Arabic and English, providing essential amenities, and adhering to various requirements for ventilation, sanitation, and hygiene, thus ensuring a conducive and safe living environment for workers.