All news: United Arab Emirates
Voices and insights on social protection and migration in the South Asia–Gulf corridor
Ageing migrant populations require new approaches to social protection
The first paper in the ILO STREAM Programme's Voices and Insights series examines how ageing among long-term migrant workers is exposing gaps in social protection across the migration corridor linking South Asia and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)...
Sri Lanka moves to shield migrant workers from crises through enhanced social protection
National consultation calls for stronger, better-coordinated social protection systems in countries of origin and destination to protect migrant workers and their families before, during and after crises.
BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting (LEMM), 15-16 July 2026
ILO welcomes BRICS focus on social protection, women’s labour force participation, formalization and future-ready labour markets
India's leadership in advancing labour and employment priorities during its BRICS Presidency is praised as ILO pledges continued support for BRICS cooperation on decent work.
Cross-regional dialogue platform launched on social protection for migrant workers along the Asia–Gulf corridor
The launch of the platform, co-chaired by the Philippines and the GCC Executive Bureau, sends a powerful message: effective social protection for migrant workers can only be achieved through dialogue and partnership between countries of origin and...
New report
AI-driven transformation puts jobs, inequality and skills at a crossroads in the Arab region
A new report outlines diverging AI futures for jobs, growth and inequality in the Arab region. Proactive and inclusive policy measures are needed today, ILO Regional Director Ruba Jaradat says during an Arab Forum for Sustainable Development special...
IMRF stakeholders strengthen commitments to wage and social protection for migrant workers
A high-level dialogue at the International Migration Review Forum 2026 explored practical ways to include migrant workers in wage and social protection systems across the migration corridor between Africa, Asia and the Gulf, with the support of the...
Rethinking social protection across borders for migrant domestic workers
A research event organized by the ILO STREAM Programme presented new research and practical solutions to ensure that those who provide care across the South Asia–GCC corridor are themselves protected and cared for.
ILO Director-General urges governments to turn economic transformation into decent work
At the World Government Summit in Dubai, Gilbert F. Houngbo highlighted the central role of labour-market governance, skills and social justice in shaping inclusive growth in the digital and green transitions.
The United Arab Emirates ratifies the Protocol to Convention No. 29, reaffirming its commitment to fight against forced labour
The United Arab Emirates becomes the sixty third country worldwide and the second among members of the Gulf Cooperation Council to ratify this instrument.
Employers and Business Membership Organization - capacity building
ILO Bureau for Employers’ Activities concludes two online validation workshops on strengthening labour functions in employers’...
Strengthening labour functions in employers’ and business membership organizations in the Arab States
New ILO-GCC joint report
Report reviews the wage protection system in Gulf Cooperation Council countries
Joint ILO-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) analysis highlights the extent of progress made in ensuring timely wage payments.
New ILO programme set to advance social protection for migrant workers across the South Asia–Gulf corridor
The official launch of the STREAM Programme at the Second World Summit for Social Development marks a new stage in strengthening social protection for migrant workers and their families across the South Asia–Gulf corridor.
Second World Summit for Social Development
World leaders renew commitments to social protection for migrant workers across the Gulf, South Asia and Africa
A landmark gathering at the Second World Summit for Social Development united policymakers and social partners from the three regions to advance joint action on extending social protection to millions of migrant workers.
New ILO factsheets reveal linkages between climate challenges and green job opportunities in the Arab States region
New ILO country factsheets present a concise overview on key employment, environment, and climate data for the Arab States region.
ILO report
Digitalization and artificial intelligence promise to boost jobs in the Arab States – but they must be managed inclusively
Report highlights need for policies that are inclusive for women, youth and vulnerable groups and ensure a just digital transition.
ILO discusses maternity benefits and implications for labour markets in the Arab Gulf countries
Oman hosts workshop to review maternity protection policies and explore improvement opportunities in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Partnership
ILO and GCC join forces to advance decent work and sustainable development in the Gulf States
The ILO and Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) launched a 2025-2029 plan to tackle labour challenges in the Gulf, focusing on fair wages, gender equality, green jobs, and protections, supporting sustainable development and...
The UAE introduces voluntary pensions to replace end-of-service indemnities, joining an increasing trend of reforms across the GCC countries
The new scheme has been announced with the intention to increase attractiveness and flexibility of labour markets while consolidating the protection and wellbeing of workers.
ILO Launches Flagship Study on Extending Social Protection to Migrant Workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries
COP28: Focus on labour migration and climate change