Says the Director of Human Resources at the Department of Health and Medical Services, Jamal Naji, “This is for the first time that a law clearly defines the rights of employees. We are happy that the law has been introduced. It will end any kind of discrimination in terms of wages or otherwise at workplaces. The law stipulates that employees will automatically be entitled to promotions and pay hikes after a certain period of time.”

“It is a noble gesture from His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is in the best interest of employees,” says Brigadier Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of the Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department.

“The law does not discriminate between nationals and expatriates.”  

For Khouloud, an employee at a government department, the clauses pertaining to maternity leave are the most relevant to her. “This law is just and fair for all employees and it is a good package as a whole,” she says.

Amina, her co-worker, says, “The law will further protect the rights of employees, particularly those of competent ones who will be granted bonuses and promotions on the basis of their performance.”

Ismail Meladi, an employee with the public relations section at  Dubai Municipality, says, “We have been talking about it. And this is a welcome step, especially keeping in mind the rising living costs in Dubai.” 

Brigadier Tarish Eid Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Human Resources of the Dubai Police, says the human resources law no 27 of 2006 will be implemented for all local departments, including UAE national and expatriate staff members.

According to the decree, a special committee will be set up for implementing the new structure and the salaries of all employees will be increased soon, he adds.

Dubai General Attorney Issam Al Humaidan says the law came after conducting several studies and it will be revised annually.