The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has posted significant progress in safeguarding workers' financial rights and wellbeing during the first half of 2026, according to figures released by the Ministry's Social Protection System.
Dalal Alshehhi, Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, said the results reflect the Ministry's ongoing commitment to building a safe and sustainable labour market that balances the interests of workers and employers. She linked the achievements to the Ministry's broader strategy of forging partnerships across federal, local and private sector entities to strengthen compliance and support the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.
Among the key figures, around 800,000 workers took part in national celebrations held across more than 60 locations nationwide, organised in partnership with government and private sector bodies to promote social inclusion.
The Workers Protection Programme supported over 44,000 workers with an average payout of AED7,000 each, disbursing a total of more than AED320 million by mid-2026. Separately, the Unemployment Insurance Scheme has paid out over AED512 million in compensation to workers who lost their jobs since its 2024 launch.
On awareness efforts, delivered in 17 languages, all targeted workers completed mandatory guidance courses, while more than 1.3 million benefited from specialised programmes.
The Ministry also highlighted the success of its Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, running from 15th June to 15th September, supported by more than 12,000 rest stations for delivery riders.
On accommodation standards, more than 2,800 facilities are now registered under the Labour Accommodation System, serving around 2 million workers with improved health, safety and comfort standards.
The figures underscore the UAE's continued push to position itself as a global leader in labour rights protection.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
