UAE labour ministry teaches workers about their rights

Saqr bin Ghobash Saeed Ghobash distributed booklets that detailed the legal guidelines relating to workers' rights. Here, he addresses workers at the ICAD labour accommodation in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. - Photo by Ryan Lim

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has launched the second phase of the 'Know Your Rights' campaign before 400 workers at the ICAD labour accommodation in Abu Dhabi.
The campaign aims to ensure workers are aware of their rights and the newly launched decrees which took effect earlier this year.
Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation Saqr bin Ghobash Saeed Ghobash told Khaleej Times that it is critical to continue holding such initiatives, as well as educating workers about the UAE's labour laws.
"We held an initiative earlier this year in Dubai International Airport, and one in here today, and we will continue to do this. We are planning on the next one soon, we are waiting for the approval of Abu Dhabi airport."
The minister pointed out that protecting the workers' rights is a fundamental subject in the UAE. "The UAE is committed to providing all means of protection to workers' rights while ensuring employers' interests are being met. Therefore the government approved the new decrees, which aim to promote a balanced and productive working relationship between both (parties)."
During Wednesday's campaign, Ghobash approached the workers and took part in distributing booklets that relate to legal guidelines. The booklet has been printed in 11 languages, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam.
Labour cities across the country will also see similar visits and inspections by teams as part of the campaign.
Smart kiosk
During the visit, Ghobash was also briefed on the smart kiosk that was available in the sports hall. Linked to the Internet, the device takes in all the data of the worker via his Emirates ID card. It then takes the worker on an introductory journey about the UAE's labour laws and regulations through a 20-minute short film prepared in several languages.
Said Issa Al Khaili, acting Chief Executive of the Higher Corporation for Specialised Economic Zones, said: "The foundation has built private residential cities for workers upon the directions of the executive council of the emirate of Abu Dhabi according to international standards."
The organisation has invested more than Dh12.5 billion in partnership with the private sector in the country to develop 30 labour cities for 450,000 workers in Abu Dhabi.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com