16,800 GCC Nationals Registered in Pension Systems, Reports GCC Statistical Centre

The number of GCC nationals registered in the pension systems of other member states reached 16.8 thousand by the end of 2023, a substantial rise from 4.1 thousand in 2007, marking an increase of 311.4 percent, according to data from the GCC Statistical Centre.

Similarly, registrations in social insurance systems surged to 17.2 thousand in 2023 from 3.8 thousand in 2007, reflecting a 347.9 percent rise.

This growth highlights the progress in the integration of GCC economies, particularly in the area of social insurance and pension systems, aligning with the objectives of the GCC Common Market. The UAE experienced a notable rise, with 9.5 thousand other GCC nationals registered in its pension system by 2019, marking a 513.3 percent increase from 2007. Omanis were the largest group, making up 81.9 percent of these registrations.

In Bahrain, 422 GCC nationals were registered in the pension system in 2023, up 234.9 percent from 2007, with Saudis forming the majority. Saudi Arabia saw an 88.2 percent decrease in pension registrations, but a 540.6 percent increase in social insurance enrollments, with Bahrainis representing the majority.

Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait also recorded various increases and decreases in registrations, reflecting shifting migration trends across the region. The data suggests a growing mobility of GCC nationals within the region, encouraged by policies approved by the Supreme Council in 1999 to ensure social security for nationals working outside their home countries.

This trend underscores the evolving landscape of regional collaboration, with each GCC member state strengthening its social insurance and pension systems to support the workforce across borders.

News Source: Emirates News Agency