Why Arab governments are changing labour laws

Labour rules in the Middle East are undergoing major changes and improvements.



Labour regulations within the Middle East are increasing for both regional and international workers. Governments have recently begun setting standards for minimal wages, working hours and work-related security. The region is witnessing an optimistic change towards fair and accommodating working surroundings as would lawyers such as Salem Al Kait and Ammar Haykal in Ras Al Khaimah likely recommend. Workers are also becoming more conscious of their legal rights and increasingly demanding rights offered for them, there is a greater increased exposure of reasonable treatment, respect and support from employers.

GCC governments are taking significant strides to reform their labour market. The area heavily relies on international labour which has long affected the rate of joblessness among citizens. GCC countries' reliance on foreign labour has long posed difficulties for their economies and societies. Multinational corporations and also the non-public sector in general opt for foreign workers in a variety of sectors. To tackle this dilemma measures have already been implemented to mandate companies to employ a specific percentage of local citizens. These quotas are to make sure that job opportunities are given to the deserving citizens who have the mandatory skills and skills. On the other hand, GCC countries are reforming regulations related to working conditions and benefits for both national and foreign employees. Take for example, work-related safety, governments are enforcing strict regulation and guidelines in that respect. Employers are actually obliged to offer appropriate security equipment, conduct regular danger assessments and invest in training programmes for employees as would the lawyer Louise Flanagan in Ras Al Khaimah likely confirm.

The labour market in the Arabian Gulf has withstood major changes in recent years years. The diversification of their economies far from oil have necessitated these reforms. Some of these reforms are targeted at bringing in investments, international talent while some at increasing employment opportunities for their citizens and reducing reliance upon expatriate employees. Historically, the availability of high paying jobs within the public sector has frustrated citizens from pursuing technical and vocational training. As a result, it has an oversupply of university graduates and an undersupply of skilled workers in industries like engineering, healthcare, and information technology. Governments acknowledging this matter have focused on aligning the education system with the needs for the labour market by providing professional and technical training. Additionally, they have established organizations offering hands-on instruction that equips graduates with the abilities required in certain industries. Experts on GCC labour markets argue that spending on these organizations have actually increased citizen's employment because they are providing tailored training programmes that provide graduates a higher possibility of going into the job market with industry relevant skills. These reforms are made to keep a balance involving the requirements of companies, the hopes of residents and the requirements for sustainable growth .

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