UAE Employment Law: 30-Day Registration Rule for Emirati Workers 2025
Essential guide to UAE’s mandatory 30-day employee registration policy for Emirati and GCC workers. Learn about Ma’ashi platform and GPSSA requirements.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
Employment registration rules in the UAE have taken a significant step forward, with fresh mandates affecting both Emirati and GCC nationals in the workforce. The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) has established clear guidelines for registering employees, marking a pivotal development in UAE’s employment framework.
Key Registration Requirements
Companies operating in the UAE must now complete two essential steps:
- Register new Emirati employees within 30 days of their start date
- Create a company profile on the Ma’ashi digital platform
These requirements apply across federal, government, and private sectors, including positions supported by government initiatives like NAFIS.
Registration Criteria for Employees
The GPSSA has outlined specific eligibility criteria for registration:
- Age requirements: Employees must be between 18 and 60 years old
- Medical clearance: A valid medical fitness certificate from a UAE government hospital (issued within the last six months)
- Citizenship status: Applicable to both current and newly naturalized Emirati citizens
GCC Citizens Working in UAE
The registration mandate extends to GCC nationals employed in the UAE, following Cabinet Resolution No. (18) of 2007. This regulation places the GPSSA as the primary authority for implementing the GCC’s extension protection system within the UAE.
Legal Framework
These requirements stem from:
- Federal Law No. (7) of 1999
- Federal Law No. 57 of 2023
- Related pension and social security amendments
Impact on Benefits
Proper registration directly affects:
- Insurance benefits calculation
- Pension entitlements
- Social security provisions
Key Takeaway: UAE employers must act within 30 days of hiring Emirati or GCC nationals to register them with GPSSA through the Ma’ashi platform. This registration is crucial for protecting employee benefits and maintaining compliance with UAE employment laws.
This article reflects the latest employment regulations as of February 2025. For the most current information, please consult the GPSSA directly.
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