The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has released figures showing that nearly 9.7 million new work permits and employment contract renewals were processed in 2025, reflecting the country’s sustained position as one of the world’s most active labour markets.
A Market Moving at Scale
In total, more than 13.3 million labour transactions were completed across key services during the year, covering work permits, contract renewals, cancellations, complaints, and establishment records. Contract renewals represented the largest share at over 5.5 million, while new work permits accounted for more than 4.1 million transactions.
The data also recorded over 110,000 new establishment registrations, indicating continued business formation and investment activity across the country. This figure signals that employers across sectors are expanding, not just maintaining existing operations.
Flexibility and Compliance Alongside Growth
The ministry also recorded approximately 2.4 million work permit and contract cancellations during the year — a figure that reflects labour market flexibility and normal workforce movement rather than economic stress. Over 500,000 labour complaints were registered through official channels, alongside nearly 146,000 grievance requests, pointing to growing awareness of labour rights among both workers and employers.
Digital Infrastructure Driving Efficiency
Officials attributed the ability to process millions of transactions annually to the UAE’s investment in digital government infrastructure. The figures reinforce the country’s reputation for administrative efficiency, a key factor for international companies when selecting a regional base.
For businesses planning UAE market entry or expansion, the 2025 labour data paints a picture of a deep, dynamic, and well-regulated workforce environment continuing to attract global talent at scale.
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