Other Briefings
Kuwait Introduces Long-Term Residency of Up to 15 Years While Raising Iqama and Visa Fees
Kuwait has reformed its immigration and residency framework, and has increased iqama, visa, and health insurance fees across most categories.
Saudi Arabia Tightens Iqama, Visa, and Residency Ahead of 2026
Saudi Arabia is intensifying immigration and residency enforcement ahead of 2026 by introducing streamlined deportation procedures for visa violators and increasing penalties for corporate non-compliance, particularly in relation to Iqama status and beneficial owner disclosures.
UAE Declares January 1, 2026 Paid Public Holiday for Private Sector
The UAE has confirmed January 1, 2026, as a paid public holiday for all private-sector employees, aligning private-sector entitlements with the federal public holiday framework. The early announcement gives employers clarity to plan payroll, staffing, and operations for the start of 2026 in line with labor law requirements. The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Human […]
UAE Employment Law Updates: Key Developments in 2024/2025 and What They Mean for 2026
The UAE recent Employment Law reforms strengthen employee protections, streamline dispute resolution, and raise compliance expectations.
Probation Period in Saudi Arabia: Key Rules and Compliance Considerations for Employers and Employees
Saudi Arabia’s probation period provides a regulated timeframe for employers and employees to assess fit while upholding core rights and obligations. Clear documentation and lawful management help prevent disputes and support stable employment relationships.
UAE Announces Private Sector Holiday for 54th Eid Al Etihad on December 1-2, 2025
The UAE has declared December 1–2, 2025 as paid holidays for all private-sector employees to mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad. The unified schedule ensures a four-day weekend for most workers and reflects the country’s commitment to harmonising public- and private-sector holiday policies.
Qatar Overhauls Civil Service Framework with Major 2025 Human Resources Law Amendments
Qatar 2025 Civil Service Law reforms overhaul performance evaluations, promotions, and allowances across the civil service.
Qatar’s New Persons with Disabilities Law (2025): Key Employment Provisions
Qatar’s New Persons with Disabilities Law introduces a framework to ensure inclusion, accessibility, and non-discrimination in the workplace.
Oman Labor Market Compliance: New Rules for Foreign Companies and Expatriate Workers
Oman new labor rules require foreign companies to hire at least one Omani national and increase flexibility for expatriate workers.
Saudi Arabia Ends Kafala Sponsorship System: Implications for Business
Saudi Arabia announced the abolition of the kafala sponsorship system in June 2025, marking a historic shift to contract-based employment, granting migrant workers greater mobility and rights.
