Middle East
Middle East's immigration policy and labor market updates
Key trends shaping the Middle East's labor and immigration landscape
Nationalization policies gaining momentum
Countries across the Middle East are increasingly focusing on nationalization policies to reduce reliance on foreign workers. In Qatar, the introduction of the Qatar Nationalization Law includes the establishment of eight strategic sectors, such as manufacturing and IT, that will undergo phased nationalization, with each sector having a dedicated council for better alignment. Turkey has also introduced new sector-specific criteria and exemptions, creating more opportunities for local workers while streamlining processes for specific job titles.
Enhanced worker protections
Several countries are enhancing protections for workers, particularly expatriates. Saudi Arabia’s new wage insurance scheme ensures that workers are paid even in cases of employer default, while Qatar’s focus on sectoral nationalization aims to ensure better job opportunities for nationals. The UAE has introduced more stringent penalties for companies failing to comply with labor laws, including fines for hiring workers without proper authorization.
Digitization of immigration processes
The region is increasingly adopting digital solutions to streamline immigration procedures. Qatar has introduced an electronic attestation system, allowing for the instant and 24/7 attestation of documents like police and educational certificates, reducing the need for in-person visits. Similarly, Saudi Arabia has increasingly started to modernize its visa application and work permit processes through digital platforms, improving efficiency and accuracy in handling immigration applications.
Impact of regional instability on travel and immigration
The ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East has led several countries to adjust their travel advisories and impose new visa procedures. This has affected travel across the region, with governments urging foreign nationals to check with airlines before traveling. This impact highlights the importance of businesses staying informed about regional tensions and ensuring that employees traveling in or out of the region are prepared for potential delays or changes in immigration procedures.
Country insights:
Turkey
Changes in work permit criteria and international workforce law
Turkey’s Ministry of Labour has introduced new criteria for work permit applications as of October 1, 2024. This includes diversifying sector-specific requirements and offering reliefs for certain sectors and job titles. Additionally, changes to the International Workforce Law have broadened the scope of work permit exemptions for specific work types, providing faster routes for short-term assignments compared to traditional work permit processes.
Turkey also introduced a digital nomad visa, enabling remote workers employed outside Turkey to live in the country. At the same time, short-term work permit exemptions have expanded, offering faster and more flexible pathways for specific job categories.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Visa reforms and extensions
The UAE has introduced significant updates, including a new visa-on-arrival policy for nationals of selected countries, allowing stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Furthermore, the UAE government has also implemented a visa extension policy for GCC residents and their dependents, permitting stays of 30 to 60 days, effective immediately.
Qatar
Introduction of electronic attestation and nationalization penalties
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched an electronic attestation service for local police and educational certificates, streamlining the process for document verification. Additionally, they have introduced Qatar's Nationalization Law with penalties for non-compliance, which will come into effect on March 1, 2025. A revision of professional title classifications and the establishment of eight strategic sectors targeted by the Nationalisation Law are key developments in Qatar’s labor market.
Saudi Arabia
Wage insurance for expatriates
Saudi Arabia has implemented a wage insurance scheme effective from October 6, 2024, providing financial protection for expatriate workers in case their employer defaults on wage payments. This initiative is part of broader labor market reforms aimed at enhancing worker security, especially in the private sector.
Oman
New labor law and reforms
Oman’s new labor law, replacing regulations from 2003, introduces important changes, including reduced weekly working hours, new contract terms, and enhanced mobility for employees. These reforms aim to ensure a balanced and transparent employment relationship while continuing the country’s Omanization strategy.
Want more information on Middle Eastern immigration policy and updates?
Reach out to our experts.
Rekha Simpson
UAE Immigration Lead
Ali Ibrahim
KSA Immigration Lead
Antoine Salloum
Qatar Immigration Lead
Nasrine Abdi
Immigration Manager, UAE