Exactly why Arab governments are reforming labour laws

Exactly why Arab governments are reforming labour laws

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As governments in the Arabian Gulf diversify their economies away from oil, labour market rules are changing.

The labour market within the Arabian Gulf has undergone major changes in recent years years. The diversification of these economies away from oil have necessitated these reforms. A few of these reforms are targeted at bringing in foreign opportunities, foreign skill although some at increasing job opportunities for their citizens and reducing reliance upon expatriate employees. Historically, the availability of high paying jobs within the public sector has discouraged citizens from pursuing technical and vocational training. As a result, it has an oversupply of university graduates as well as an undersupply of skilled workers in sectors like engineering, medical, and information technology. Governments acknowledging this dilemma have actually focused on aligning the education system with the needs for the labour market by providing professional and technical training. Additionally, they have established organizations that offer hands-on training that arms graduates with the abilities needed in specific companies. Specialists on GCC labour markets argue that spending on these organizations have boosted citizen's work as they are providing customised training programmes giving graduates a higher possibility of entering the work market with industry relevant abilities. These reforms are designed to keep a balance between the requirements of businesses, the aspiration of residents as well as the requirements for sustainable development .

GCC governments are taking significant strides to reform their labour market. The region greatly relies on international labour which has long impacted the level of unemployment among residents. GCC countries' reliance on foreign labour has long presented challenges for their economies and societies. Multinational corporations and the private sector in general opt for foreign employees in a variety of sectors. To address this problem measures have been implemented to mandate businesses to hire a specific percentage of national citizens. These quotas are to ensure job opportunities are given to the deserving residents who possess the required abilities and qualifications. Having said that, GCC countries are also reforming laws associated with working conditions and advantages for both local and international employees. Take for instance, work-related safety, governments are enforcing strict regulation and instructions in that regard. Companies are actually obligated to supply suitable security equipment, conduct regular risk assessments and spend money on training programmes for employees as would the lawyer Louise Flanagan in Ras Al Khaimah likely attest.

Labour laws in the Middle East are increasing for both local and international workers. Governments have recently started setting criteria for minimal wages, working hours and occupational security. The region is witnessing a confident shift towards reasonable and accommodating working environments as would attorneys such as Salem Al Kait and Ammar Haykal in Ras Al Khaimah likely suggest. Workers are also becoming more alert to their rights and increasingly demanding protections provided for them, there is a greater focus on reasonable treatment, respect and support from employers.