The UAE Cabinet has adopted a decision to amend provisions of the law on sponsoring expatriate family members, with an emphasis on income rather than the profession of expat workers. 

 

According to a statement by the General Secretariat of the Cabinet, the amended provisions now indicate "income" as a requirement for sponsoring family members, as opposed to the previously listed "professions" which allowed workers to sponsor their families, said a Wam report. 

 

The Cabinet decision also urges relevant authorities to encourage the active participation of expatriate family members in the job market as an alternative to recruiting new workers from abroad, within the existing policies and regulations.

 

The amendment is in line with international developments and accordance with best practices, it added.

 

"The decision aims at enhancing family stability of foreign workers and social cohesion, as well as attracting highly skilled workers while maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life," the statement continued.

 

The Cabinet decision, the statement explained, called on relevant government entities to conduct studies to assess and enhance the services provided to residents, including aspects of education and health.

 

Meanwhile, Nasser bin Thani Al Hamli, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, stated that the decision of the UAE Cabinet to consider the income of foreign workers that apply to bring their family members to the country, rather than their profession, will improve the family lives and social ties of private sector workers.

 

He also highlighted the decision’s positive effects on the labour market, as it will increase productivity, support the national economy, and improve the performance of workers within a comprehensive environment that will integrate the entire community.

 

Al Hamli stressed that the UAE hosts over 200 nationalities and guarantees their rights, which are safeguarded by national legislation, as it considers everyone to be active partners in the development process, making the UAE the first-choice destination for manpower and experts who see the country as a safe place to work and live.