Abu Dhabi Introduces New Remote Working Regulations Starting April 1

Er Mukesh Singh

ADGM Introduces New Flexible Remote Hiring Rules for Firms

ADGM Announces New Employment Regulations for Remote Working and Flexible Arrangements

Abu Dhabi’s International Financial Centre, the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), has introduced new regulations aimed at giving employers more flexibility in hiring remote workers. These changes, effective from April 1, 2024, are designed to reflect global shifts in workplace practices and enhance clarity for both employers and employees.

The ADGM Registration Authority (RA) has revised its 2019 employment laws, with key updates included in the newly published Employment Regulations 2024. The primary aim is to address emerging trends in the modern workforce, providing employers with the ability to hire remote employees while supporting more flexible working arrangements.

Key Changes in the Employment Regulations:

  1. Definition of ‘Employee’ Expanded: The new regulations now include provisions for remote employees, making it easier for employers to hire individuals from different locations, both within the UAE and internationally.
  2. Flexibility in Working Arrangements: Employers are now allowed to adopt more flexible work models, which can include part-time, remote, or hybrid work options, reflecting a growing trend towards non-traditional work setups.
  3. Employee Entitlements Clarified: The regulations clarify rights and entitlements for part-time and remote workers, ensuring that such employees receive the same protections as their full-time counterparts in the workplace.
  4. Improved Employer and Employee Clarity: The regulations are designed to provide clearer guidelines on both employers’ and employees’ rights and obligations, creating a more structured and transparent work environment.

These revisions align with global workplace trends and aim to help companies in ADGM adapt to the evolving work environment. With more businesses shifting to remote work and hybrid models, these updates will offer employers greater flexibility in hiring practices while maintaining clarity on employee rights and responsibilities.

The new regulations are expected to benefit both employers and employees by fostering a more inclusive, adaptable, and efficient workforce in ADGM’s business ecosystem.

ADGM Announces Key Updates in Employment Regulations for 2024

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has introduced important revisions to its Employment Regulations, set to take effect on April 1, 2024. These updates are aimed at aligning the regulatory framework with global workplace practices while ensuring more flexibility for employers and better clarity for employees.

Key Changes in the Employment Regulations:

  1. Clarification on Employee Entitlements:
    The new regulations provide clearer guidance on employee entitlements, especially for part-time employees. This revision ensures that part-time workers are treated fairly and that their rights are clearly defined within the regulatory framework.
  2. Work Permit and Visa Requirements:
    There are now clarified requirements concerning the process of obtaining and canceling an employee’s work permit and visa. These changes streamline the procedure for both employers and employees, ensuring smoother transitions in hiring and employment terminations.
  3. Expanded Workplace Responsibilities on Discrimination:
    The regulations now place greater emphasis on preventing discrimination and victimization in the workplace. Employers are now required to uphold more stringent responsibilities to create a safe and inclusive environment for all employees, with specific actions to address and prevent any form of workplace discrimination or harassment.

These revisions are a response to evolving global employment practices and reflect ADGM’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, transparent, and adaptable workforce. The updated regulations ensure that employers are equipped with the flexibility to manage a diverse range of working arrangements, while employees’ rights are better safeguarded, making the ADGM a more attractive destination for business and talent.

ADGM Announces New Employment Regulations Effective April 1, 2025

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has confirmed that the New Employment Regulations will replace the existing Employment Regulations 2019, with the new rules set to become effective on April 1, 2025. This extended timeline gives employers ample time to adjust their internal policies, employment contracts, and other employment-related matters to meet the new requirements.

In a statement, ADGM emphasized that the revised regulations reflect the financial centre’s ongoing commitment to developing an environment that fosters innovation and ensures the best conditions for both businesses and employees.

CEO’s Comments on the New Regulations:

Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM Registration Authority, commented on the release of the new regulations, stating:
“We are pleased to announce the publication of the New Employment Regulations, which reflect our strong commitment to enhancing our ecosystem and ensuring the best regulatory frameworks and favourable conditions for both companies and employees alike.”

Al Mazrouei further highlighted that the regulations aim to provide necessary guidance for the business community while ensuring employee protection and stability in the workplace. He emphasized that the new regulations align with ADGM’s efforts to expand, grow, and promote innovative work systems, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and thriving business environment.

As part of the regulatory update, companies will need to adapt their policies to accommodate changes, including provisions on flexible work arrangements, remote hiring, part-time employee entitlements, and enhanced responsibilities related to workplace discrimination. With these measures, ADGM seeks to establish a more inclusive and modern framework that supports business growth and provides clearer rights and protections for employees.

Courtesy: Gulf News

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