Provisions for employing GCC nationals
According to Cabinet Resolution No. 72/5 of 2007 (Arabic only), GCC nationals working in the private sector shall be treated equally to UAE nationals working in the private sector in all Ministry procedures, whether in terms of employment or insurance coverage. However, this does not affect the Emiratisation quota set for UAE citizens in the private sector, and GCC nationals are not counted towards those quota. According to Cabinet Resolution No. 18 of 2007 (Arabic only), GCC nationals working in the UAE are covered by the social insurance extension system. This system requires employers in the UAE to register GCC employees and contribute to their social insurance schemes in accordance with the regulations of their home countries. Employers must pay the contributions due on behalf of GCC employees, the same as they pay for Emirati citizens. The GCC employee would bear any additional difference in contributions, if applicable. Further, as per Cabinet Resolution No. 292 of 2015 (Arabic only) establishments hiring GCC nationals must obtain work permits for them through Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. Once the permit is issued, GCC nationals may commence work immediately in the UAE, without the need to obtain a residence visa, unlike citizens of other nationalities.
Updated On :
06 Oct 2025
