Newsletter Archives - Page 19 of 209 - LexisNexis Middle East

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Bahrain: Labour Market Regulatory Authority Conducts Extensive Inspections

15/08/202415/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

The Daily Tribune, 6 August 2024: The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain has intensified its efforts to combat illegal and undocumented workers, as well as other labour market violations.

Between 21 July and 3 August 2024, the LMRA has conducted 1,411 inspection campaigns and visits across various governorates of the Kingdom.

These inspections led to the apprehension of 100 illegal and undocumented workers, while 350 violators were deported during the same period.

The inspections have revealed numerous violations related to the LMRA Law, the Residency Law of Bahrain, and other relevant regulations.

The LMRA has conducted 1,378 inspection visits to commercial establishments across all governorates, along with 33 joint inspection campaigns.

These campaigns were carried out in collaboration with various government entities, including the Interior Ministry, security directorates, the General Directorate for Execution of Judgments, the Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, the Electricity and Water Authority, the Health Ministry, and the Industry and Commerce Ministry.

The joint efforts aimed to ensure comprehensive inspections and effective enforcement of labour regulations.

The campaigns were distributed as follows: 23 in the Capital Governorate, three in Muharraq Governorate, five in the Northern Governorate, and two in the Southern Governorate.

Legal action has been taken against the identified violations, as stated by the LMRA.

The authority emphasised its ongoing coordination with government entities to intensify inspection campaigns across the Kingdom.

This initiative aims to combat practices that negatively impact the labour market’s stability, competitiveness, or harm the economic and social security of Bahrain.

The LMRA has reiterated its call for community members to support government efforts in tackling illegal practices in the labour market and irregular employment, protecting the community as a whole.

Individuals are encouraged to report any complaints related to labour market violations and irregular employment by filling out the designated electronic reporting form on the LMRA’s official website (www.lmra.gov.bh), using the National Suggestions and Complaints System (Tawasul), or contacting the LMRA’s call center at 17506055.

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UAE: Federal Law on Labour Relations Organisation Issued

14/08/202415/08/2024
by Tanya Jain

Al-Bayan, 12 August 2024: The UAE has issued a new federal decree-law amending provisions of the existing labour relations regulations. This move aligns with the country’s continuous efforts to develop a robust legislative framework that ensures an efficient and competitive labour market.

The primary objectives of the new decree-law are to regulate labour relations in a balanced manner, clearly defining the rights and obligations of all parties involved. Additionally, to provide comprehensive protection for workers and employers, enabling them to exercise their rights within a well-defined legal framework.

Lastly, to enhance the overall competitiveness of the UAE’s labour market.

Stringent penalties have been introduced for violations related to unauthorised employment practices.
Individuals found employing workers without proper authorisation, bringing in workers and leaving them without employment, misusing work permits, or closing facilities without settling workers’ rights will face fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million.

Strict measures have been put in place to protect juvenile workers.
Employers found violating provisions related to the employment of minors will face similar hefty fines.
Additionally, individuals who agree to employ juveniles in violation of the law, including those with guardianship or custody over the minors, will also be subject to penalties.
Employers are now mandated to take necessary measures to settle the rights of workers in accordance with the new decree-law, its executive regulations, and related decisions before closing facilities or suspending operations.

The UAE’s proactive approach to enhancing its labour laws demonstrates its commitment to creating a fair and transparent work environment that safeguards the interests of both employers and employees.
These amendments are expected to further strengthen the country’s position as a preferred destination for skilled professionals and businesses seeking a robust and well-regulated labour market.

The UAE Government announced fines ranging up to Dh1 million on Monday after a Federal Decree-Law was issued, amending specific provisions of the Federal Decree-Law on the Regulation of Employment Relationships.

A fine ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million will be imposed on employers for employing a worker without a work permit or bringing them without providing any job. The same fine will also apply for closing a business without settling the rights of workers, taking part in fraudulent labour acts including fraudulent employment or fictitious Emiratisation, employing a minor in violation of the law, and engaging in any act of circumvention of the laws or regulations governing the labour market, including fictitious employment.

As per the new provisions, the penalties will multiply based on the number of workers fictitiously employed.

Additionally, The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is now authorised to make a settlement provided that the employer pays 50 per cent of the minimum value of the fine and pays back to the government the financial incentives obtained by the fake employees.

The new decree stipulates that any criminal proceedings for fictitious employment, including fake Emiratisation, can only be initiated at the request of the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation or his/her authorised representative.

The decree also states that any disputes between employers and employees should be referred to the Court of First Instance rather than the Court of Appeal, if there is a disagreement with the decision made by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in resolving the dispute.

This applies to all cases except for those disputes that have been adjusted or reserved for the issuance of a judgement.

Starting from the date of implementation of the provisions, the Court of Appeal is required to refer all requests, disputes and grievances regarding the regulation of employment relations to the Court of First Instance.

As per the new provisions, the court shall revoke proceeding with any claims filed after two years from the termination of the employment relationship.

This decree is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to develop its legislative and legal framework.
It aims to ensure the efficiency and competitiveness of the labour market, regulate employment relationships, and clearly define the rights and obligations of all parties involved, and ensure their protection by law.

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UAE: Reveals VAT Guidelines for Charities

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in the UAE has released comprehensive guidelines outlining the VAT treatment for charities operating in the country.

The guidelines, titled “Charities VAT Guide,” provide clarity on various aspects of VAT compliance for charitable organisations.

One of the key highlights of the guidelines is the introduction of the concept of “designated charities.”

These are charities that meet specific criteria, such as being approved by the Community Development Ministry, operating on a not-for-profit basis, and being primarily funded by grants or donations.

Designated charities will be eligible for a special VAT recovery scheme, allowing them to reclaim VAT incurred on expenses related to both taxable and non-taxable activities, except for exempt supplies.

A spokeperson from the FTA has stated that the guidelines aim to support the charitable sector in the UAE by providing a clear framework for VAT compliance.

Designated charities will benefit from the special VAT recovery rules, enabling them to maximise their resources for charitable purposes.

The document outlines the criteria for a charity to be recognised as a designated charity and the process for obtaining this status.

It also clarifies the VAT treatment of various activities undertaken by charities, such as business activities subject to VAT, non-business activities, and donated goods and services.

For charities that do not qualify as designated charities, the guidelines explain the standard VAT recovery rules.

These charities can only recover VAT on costs related to taxable supplies, following a prescribed input tax apportionment method.

The guidelines also address special situations, such as the VAT treatment of sales or leases of new buildings to charities.

The first supply of a new building specifically designed for a designated charity’s relevant charitable purpose will be subject to VAT at the zero rate, providing a cash-flow benefit.

The UAE Cabinet has issued several decisions listing the charities recognised as designated charities, eligible for the special VAT recovery rules.

The guidelines provide an updated list of these designated charities.

The FTA has emphasised the importance of charities familiarising themselves with the guidelines and ensuring compliance with the VAT regulations.

Failure to comply may result in penalties and other legal consequences.

With the release of these comprehensive guidelines, the UAE aims to support the charitable sector while ensuring a fair and transparent VAT system.

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Sharjah: Launches Job Training Program with Monthly Compensation for Trainees

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 6 August 2024: In a significant move to empower job seekers and enhance their employability, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah has approved the ‘Sharjah Program for Training and Qualifying Job Seekers.’

The program, set to commence on 12 August 2024, will provide trainees with a monthly compensation of Dh6,000 during their participation.

The initiative aims to benefit 1,815 citizens across various regions of Sharjah, offering them specialised rehabilitation programs and practical experience to prepare them for diverse projects within the emirate.

The program’s reach extends to 500 citizens from the city of Sharjah, 400 from Khor Fakkan, 400 from Kalba, 200 from Dibba Al Hisn, 300 from the central region, and 15 from Al Hamriyah.

Through this comprehensive training program, the Sharjah government seeks to equip job seekers with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.

The monthly compensation of Dh6,000 is designed to support the trainees financially during their participation, enabling them to focus on acquiring valuable expertise and practical experience.

The ‘Sharjah Program for Training and Qualifying Job Seekers’ highlights the emirate’s commitment to investing in its human capital and fostering a skilled and competent workforce.

By providing targeted training and financial support, the program aims to empower citizens, boost their employability, and contribute to the overall economic development of Sharjah.

Interested individuals are encouraged to explore the program’s details and eligibility criteria to take advantage of this unique opportunity for professional growth and career advancement.

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Saudi Arabia: Announces Key Labour Law Amendments to Improve Work Environment

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

The Saudi government has approved key amendments to several articles of the Labour Law, aiming to create a more attractive work environment and contribute to sustainable development in line with the goals of Vision 2030.

The Human Resources and Social Development Ministry has stated that the new amendments include 38 articles, deleting seven articles, and adding two new articles to the Labour Law.

These amendments align with the Saudi employment market strategy as well as international agreements ratified by the country.

The ministry has stated that the new amendments will take effect after 180 days from the date of their publication in the official Gazette.

The amendments aimed to improve the labour market in the country, enhance job stability, preserve the rights of parties to the contractual relationship, in addition to developing human resources, enhancing training opportunities for workers, and increasing job opportunities for citizens.

The amendments took into account the interests of all parties to the contractual relationship.

These included an expansion of the item on holidays and labour contracts; adding definitions of the terms: resignation and assignment; adding an article specifying the procedures for resignation; amending the grievance procedures for the worker; and adding penalties for practicing the activity of employing workers without a licence from the ministry.

The new amendments also stipulate that the employer must formulate a special policy for the training and qualification of employees in order to raise their skills and improve their standard.

A number of amendments were also made in the item on maritime work.

The ministry has explained that the new amendments were made after an extensive study.

This study involved standard comparisons with labour laws in several countries as well as an analysis of best global practices.

Over 1,300 participants offered their opinions and suggestions on the proposed amendments to various articles of the Labour Law.

These inputs were collected via the Istitlaa survey platform, run by the National Competitiveness Centre.

This is in addition to sharing opinions and advice with private sector establishments, relevant government agencies, labour committees, and a number of specialists and experts in human resources through workshops and consultative meetings.

These amendments are formulated to reinforce the directive to develop existing systems and regulations.

The aim is to contribute to supporting the market, production and service sectors.

The amendments also provide an appropriate legislative environment and support small and medium enterprises.

Ultimately, the goal is to create more job opportunities for citizens and achieve sustainable development goals.

These goals align with the labour market strategy and the targets of Vision 2030.

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Qatar: MoPH Intensifies Monitoring of Markets to Ensure Food Safety

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

The Peninsula, 4 August 2024: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has ramped up its monitoring efforts in local markets to ensure the safety of imported and locally produced food products.

During the first half of 2024, the ministry inspected 60,520 shipments of imported food, verifying their compliance with relevant technical standards.

A total of 1,168,695,000 kg of imported food met these standards, while 985,676 kg of non-compliant food were destroyed, and 211 shipments were re-exported.

The Food Safety Department has issued 155 export and re-export certificates, 104 certificates for food product destruction, and 48 certificates for re-inspection of food items.

It processed 625 requests for food item destruction and 102 requests for re-analysis of food products.

The ministry handled 3,119 requests for final product clearance and conducted 147 reviews on the registration of local food establishments.

In the first half of the year, 1,279 food producers were registered, 1,734 certificates were issued to food handlers, and 766 food handler permits were granted.

To ensure compliance with laws, standards, and technical requirements, MoPH inspected 3,221 local food establishments.

A total of 7,022 samples from imported foods at the country’s ports and 10,064 samples from local establishments were analysed for safety and quality.

The “Watheq” electronic food safety system approved 21,457 food items, ensuring they met the necessary standards.

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Oman: More Services Added to Oman Business Platform

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Shabiba, 28 July 2024: The Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Ministry has unveiled a series of enhancements and new facilities for investors and businesses through the Oman Business Platform.

These improvements aim to streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy, and create a more conducive environment for investment in Oman.

Among the key updates are simplified procedures for commercial registration services, including updating commercial register data and transferring ownership.

The ministry has also introduced improvements to license applications and registration processes for companies subject to the Foreign Capital Investment Law.

Notably, the ministry has reduced the number of required documents and prerequisites, contributing to a more user-friendly experience and enabling faster and more efficient transaction completion.

These measures are expected to significantly support the investment climate in Oman, making it more attractive for both local and foreign investors.

The ministry’s efforts align with the Oman’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and attract investments across various sectors.

By improving the ease of doing business and providing a supportive regulatory framework, Oman aims to position itself as a preferred destination for businesses seeking to establish or expand their operations in the region.

Investors and entrepreneurs can look forward to a streamlined and efficient process through the Oman Business Platform, enabling them to focus on their core business activities while benefiting from the government’s commitment to encourage a conducive investment environment.

For the full story, click here.

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Kuwait: MoCI to Tackle Fraud in Precious Metal

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 1 August 2024: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s (MoCI’s) Undersecretary has issued a decision to form a joint working team between the Precious Metals Department and the Commercial Control Department to reduce the phenomenon of fraud in precious metals.

This team is headed by the Commercial Control Department’s Director, with a deputy and nine ministry employees as members.

The decision has defined the team’s responsibilities, which include conducting joint inspection tours between the two departments at gold and precious metal jewelry shops and workshops to combat commercial fraud.

The team’s activities will continue over three months from the date of the decision’s issuance.

The Commercial Control Inspection Teams at the Fish Market Centre in the eastern region affiliated with MoCI continue their efforts and inspection campaigns to monitor the performance of offices selling imported fish.

One of the campaigns had resulted in the closure of an office after the office owner started the auction without obtaining the approval of the ministry’s inspectors, violating the regulations and laws in force.

The inspection teams have also conducted several tours of school clothing stores in Hawally, resulting in the issuance of seven citations for various violations such as lack of price tags and absence of country of origin labels.

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Dubai: Procedures for Implementing Data Centres Economy Approved

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Mubasher, 31 July 2024: Dubai Digital, in collaboration with key public and private sector partners, has taken steps to implement the strategic vision for the data centre economy in Dubai, previously approved by the Executive Council.

This initiative aligns with the Dubai Digital Strategy, aimed at positioning the emirate as a global model for digital transformation.

Dubai Digital is collaborating with the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Digital Government, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Dubai Municipality, the General Secretariat of the Executive Council, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Together, they are coordinating measures to enhance Dubai’s leadership and future-readiness in the data centre economy.

The strategic vision aims to establish Dubai as a leading destination for sustainable data centres, equipped to operate using cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology.

Adopting this vision will foster a comprehensive integration and coordination among various entities operating in this field, including the Dubai Digital Authority, Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Digital Government, and non-governmental organisations.

By embracing this strategic vision, Dubai is paving the way for a dynamic and integrated ecosystem that will drive innovation and position the emirate as a global hub for data centre operations and advanced technology.

For the full story, click here.

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UAE: Unveils First Licensed Lottery Operation, Establishes Gaming Regulatory Framework

02/08/202402/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 29 July 2024: The UAE has announced the launch of its first licensed lottery operation.

This is significant milestone in the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework for commercial gaming activities in the country.

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), a federal entity, has unveiled the regulatory framework designed to protect consumers by ensuring fairness and transparency across all licensed commercial gaming activities, including lotteries.

The GCGRA emphasised that any unlicensed commercial gaming operations in the UAE are illegal for both operators and players, highlighting the importance of the newly established regulatory framework.

The Game LLC, a commercial gaming operator based in Abu Dhabi, has been granted the first license to operate under the banner of the ‘UAE Lottery’.

The company specialises in game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content, promising to offer a diverse range of lottery and other games catering to various player interests and financial preferences.

However, specific details about the types of games to be offered have not been disclosed yet.

According to the GCGRA, commercial gaming refers to any game of chance or combination of chance and skill where money or valuable items are wagered for the purpose of winning.

This definition includes gaming machines, internet gaming, electronic skill-based games, lottery games, event wagering (including bets placed on sporting events or horse racing), and any other form of commercial gaming regulated and licensed by the GCGRA.

Engaging in, operating, or facilitating commercial gaming activities without a valid license is unlawful and will result in legal action, including criminal penalties.

Participating as a player in activities offered by unlicensed operators, whether online or at a physical venue, is also illegal and may subject individuals to severe penalties.

The GCGRA has emphasised the importance of responsible gaming practices, enforcing safeguards across every aspect of the gaming experience, from game design to marketing strategies and the provision of player support services.

The authority aims to minimise the potential adverse consequences of excessive gaming for individuals and society, promoting commercial gaming as an entertainment and leisure activity rather than a means to generate income or make money.

With the establishment of the regulatory framework and the licensing of the UAE’s first lottery operator, the GCGRA aims to create a safe and transparent environment for commercial gaming activities in the country, while also addressing potential risks associated with unlicensed operations.

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