In its most recent meeting, the UAE Cabinet ratified several decisions, including a revamped structure for the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), mandatory health insurance for all private sector workers, and the implementation of the National Biofuels Policy.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, presided over the UAE Cabinet gathering at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, as reported by the state news agency WAM.
Sheikh Mohammed remarked, “I chaired the UAE Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. We reviewed the major advancements in the country’s labour market…Today, we approved a new structure for the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, including establishing a coordinating council for the labour market in the UAE, to maintain its stability and enhance its competitiveness.”
He added, “The workforce is the real engine of the economy, and monitoring their concerns and protecting their rights are essential elements for advancing our national economy.”
Labour Market Support:
The Cabinet received updates on MoHRE’s efforts, in collaboration with federal, local, and private entities, to bolster labour market stability and resolve disputes across the UAE. Initiatives implemented in 2023 led to a significant 75 percent reduction in labour disputes compared to 2022, with over 98 percent of disputes settled amicably by March 2024. The “Collective Labour Dispute Committee” resolved disputes totalling over Dhs300m.
Health Insurance System:
The Cabinet sanctioned the establishment of a health insurance system for registered private sector employees and domestic workers without existing coverage. Under the new system, private sector employers and domestic workers’ sponsors are mandated to cover health insurance costs for their registered workers upon residency permit issuance or renewal, effective from January 1, 2025. MoHRE will conduct awareness campaigns and programmes regarding this initiative.
Coordinating Council for Labour Market:
To further enhance the labour market, the Cabinet endorsed the establishment of the ‘Coordinating Council for Labour Market’ chaired by the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation. This council will review legislations, strategies, and initiatives concerning private sector companies and their workforce, ensuring alignment of federal and local regulations to foster nationwide coordination and integration.
UAE National Policy on Biofuels:
Additionally, the Cabinet approved a national policy on biofuels, encouraging the production and consumption of locally produced biofuels. This policy aims to regulate biofuel distribution, establish production and utilization standards, implement criteria and mandates for biofuel production domestically, and organize biofuel trading activities to contribute to environmental protection, public health, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation.
