Working remotely and getting a promotion have also become simpler under the new HR law…

A new HR law is going to come into place next year for employees of the Dubai Government which will increase their annual leave. The law, approved by HH Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai this week, is being put in place to improve overall performance, and encourage creativity and innovation among staff.

Employees of grade 8 to 11 will get 25 days holiday, increased from 22, while employees of grade 7 and less will get 18 days holiday, up from 15. Employees can also take five days instead of three days for mourning leave upon the death of a relative of the second degree.

The new law will also see ‘remote working’ introduced, where employees won’t necessarily need to work from the office. Some employees will also be eligible for overtime payment, subject to the written approval of their line manager.

Getting a promotion under the new law will also be getting easier. Employees will be able to apply for internal positions, and those with a “satisfactory annual review” will be eligible for promotion, according to a government statement. Under the new law, a new performance management system will be introduced to monitor and permit internal promotions.

Special privileges will also be given to people with determination, who can work shorter working hours if needed (subject to medical approval).

And for those working on ‘research, projects and graduation thesis’, will be able to take a five-day fully paid leave to prepare.

“We are committed to providing a supportive environment for all employees of the Government of Dubai, as the performance of the government sector is key to our development journey. Our objective is to ensure a strong work life balance and stability for all government employees,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

The changes to the HR law are currently being prepared to be implemented in 2019.

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