The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has rolled out a far-reaching set of reforms to employment law, which seeks to evolve in response to the demands of contemporary workforces and enhance worker protections. The reforms bring increased flexibility, facilitate work-life balance, and add new obligations for employers.
Among the five main changes is the official acceptance of remote and hybrid work, enabling employees and employers to negotiate flexible work arrangements. This development is consistent with international trends and enables the satisfying of different professional and personal needs.
The reforms also expand leave entitlements, such as parental, sick, and compassionate leave, to provide employees with more time to deal with significant life events without fear of job loss. Further, tougher employer requirements have been established to provide greater transparency in contracts, equal treatment, and on-time payment of wages.
ADGM’s revised framework reiterates its position as a leading international financial centre committed to worker well-being without being any less competitive and business-friendly in the rapidly evolving world of work.