Exactly why Arab governments are reforming labour laws

Exactly why Arab governments are reforming labour laws

Blog Article

As governments into the Arabian Gulf diversify their economies far from oil, labour market laws and regulations are changing.

Labour rules in the Middle East are increasing for both regional and foreign employees. Governments have recently started setting criteria for minimum wages, working hours and occupational safety. The region is experiencing a positive change towards fair and accommodating working environments as would solicitors such as Salem Al Kait and Ammar Haykal in Ras Al Khaimah likely recommend. Workers are also becoming more conscious of their rights and increasingly demanding rights afforded for them, there is a greater increased exposure of reasonable treatment, respect and support from employers.

GCC governments are making significant steps to reform their labour market. The area heavily depends on foreign labour which has long affected the rate of joblessness among citizens. GCC countries' reliance on international labour has long posed difficulties for their economies and societies. Multinational corporations as well as the private sector in general opt for foreign employees in a variety of sectors. To address this issue measures have been implemented to require companies to hire a certain percentage of national citizens. These quotas are to make sure that job opportunities are given to the deserving residents who have the required skills and skills. Having said that, GCC countries may also be reforming laws regarding working conditions and benefits for both local and international workers. Take for instance, occupational safety, governments are enforcing strict legislation and recommendations in that respect. Employers are actually obliged to give suitable safety gear, conduct regular risk assessments and spend money on 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 alterations in recent years. The diversification of these economies away from oil have required these reforms. Some of these reforms are targeted at bringing in investments, foreign skill while others at increasing job opportunities for their residents and reducing dependence on expatriate workers. Historically, the option of high paying jobs within the public sector has discouraged residents from pursuing technical and vocational training. Because of this, there is an oversupply of university graduates and an undersupply of skilled employees in industries like engineering, healthcare, and information technology. Governments recognising this dilemma have focused on aligning the education system with the demands for the labour market by advancing vocational and technical training. Moreover, they will have founded organizations that provide hands-on training that equips graduates with all the abilities required in specific industries. Specialists on GCC labour markets argue that spending on these organizations have actually increased citizen's employment because they are providing customised training courses giving graduates a higher likelihood of entering the job market with industry relevant abilities. These reforms are created to keep a balance involving the requirements of companies, the hopes of residents plus the demands for sustainable development .