Deadline to register in UAE’s Unemployment Insurance Program

On 30 June 2023, the grace period for registration in the program (which offers employees a three-month compensation for unemployment period) expires. Both UAE nationals and residents working in free zones and onshore must subscribe to the program themselves while employers are not engaged in the process.

For those, who commence working after 28 February 2023, the registration period differs since they are entitled to subscribe within four months of the start date of employment. Failure by an employee to register by the applicable deadline will lead to a fine of AED 400 being imposed. Please note that investors, business owners, domestic workers, temporary employees, and some other specifically listed categories are exempt from the program.