Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced that its Employee Workplace Savings (DEWS) scheme has surpassed USD 1 billion in assets under administration, marking a major milestone in the region’s efforts to modernise employee benefits and financial security systems.
Launched in February 2020, DEWS replaced the UAE’s traditional gratuity system with a fully funded and professionally managed savings plan. The scheme aims to enhance transparency, sustainability, and long-term employee welfare while helping employers align with global best practices.
Since its inception, DEWS has enrolled 2,726 employers and 74,323 employees, extending its reach beyond DIFC to expatriates in 61 Dubai Government entities. In addition to the USD 1 billion held within the scheme, payouts exceeding USD 340 million have already been made to participants.
His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the success of DEWS reflects Dubai’s vision of placing people at the centre of its sustainable growth and supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). He noted that such initiatives strengthen public-private collaboration and provide long-term financial security for employees.
His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, described the achievement as a testament to Dubai’s growing ability to attract and retain global talent. He highlighted DEWS as a key part of DIFC’s ambition to rank among the world’s top four financial centres.
The scheme is managed by Equiom as trustee, Zurich Workplace Solutions as administrator, and Mercer as investment advisor, ensuring robust governance and professional fund management. DEWS continues to set a regional benchmark for employee savings, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a progressive global financial hub.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
