The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) has emphasized the importance of registering with the authority to secure insurance benefits guaranteed by law.
In addition to pension entitlements, Emiratis who register can access other government support initiatives, including the NAFIS programme.
To streamline the process, Emirati employees are required to register on the Ma’ashi digital platform, which enables access to essential services via the UAE Pass. This step is mandatory under the federal pension and social security law, ensuring that employees in federal, government, and private sectors, including those supported by NAFIS, receive accurate pension and insurance calculations.
Registration Guidelines and Employer Responsibilities
Federal Law No. 7 of 1999 and Federal Law No. 57 of 2023 mandate that employers must register Emirati employees with GPSSA within 30 days of their start date, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. This requirement is crucial for maintaining compliance and securing employee benefits.
To qualify for registration, employees must be at least 18 years old and not older than 60 at the time of recruitment. Additionally, they must submit a medical clearance certificate from a UAE-based government hospital, issued within the past six months, verifying their fitness for employment. These conditions also extend to individuals who acquire Emirati nationality at any point in their lives.
Pension Protection for GCC Nationals
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 18 of 2007, GCC citizens employed in the UAE must be registered with GPSSA to ensure their inclusion in the region-wide insurance protection system. GPSSA serves as the implementing body for this initiative, ensuring that Gulf nationals working outside their home countries receive appropriate coverage.
Compliance Across Sectors and Regions
Employers in both government and private sectors must adhere to GPSSA’s pension laws. However, exceptions exist for government and private sector employers in Abu Dhabi and government entities in Sharjah. Corporations headquartered in any emirate, including their nationwide branches, fall under federal pension regulations, while entities based in Abu Dhabi and their branches are governed by the Abu Dhabi Pension Fund.
Additionally, businesses operating in free zones, as well as tourism and hospitality sectors employing Emiratis or GCC nationals, must ensure compliance with registration requirements within the first month of employment.
Employee and Employer Accountability
GPSSA reiterated that while employers are responsible for registering employees and making timely contributions, employees should actively verify their registration status to secure their insurance rights. Employees who discover they are not registered should immediately contact GPSSA to safeguard their eligibility for government support.
For further details on registration, compliance, and the UAE’s pension system, employers, insured individuals, pensioners, and beneficiaries can visit the Ma’ashi digital platform.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
