The Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR) acknowledged the UAE’s position as a global leader in securing decent, safe, and respectful working conditions for its workforce. The Association highlighted the importance of the UAE’s laws, legislation, and initiatives in achieving a comprehensive and unique system that protects workers’ rights and fulfils its international human rights commitments.

On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, celebrated annually on 1 May, Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Kaabi, President of the Association, commended the UAE’s commitment to establishing an integrated system that safeguards the human and social rights of workers. This commitment aligns with the nation’s leadership’s vision to bolster respect for workers’ rights. She pointed out the progress achieved by the state in terms of respect and protection of workers’ rights.

Dr. Al Kaabi emphasised the significance of the initiatives taken by the UAE to harness all possibilities and capabilities to enhance the work environment and conditions and to embark on achieving the main goals that make the UAE a pioneer in the field of labour rights. based on a humane approach. Additionally, she highlighted the UAE’s ratification of agreements established by the International Labour Organization, as well as other multilateral organizations dedicated to regulating labor relations.

She highlighted the UAE’s leading position in global indicators, including ranking first globally in the “Talent Attractiveness Index” according to the Global Prosperity Index 2023 by the UK’s Legatum Institute. Additionally, the UAE leads globally in “low cost of dismissal,” according to the 2022 Global Innovation Index report issued by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This is in addition to “low labor disputes,” “low costs of severance compensation,” and “working hours,” as highlighted in the 2022 World Competitiveness Yearbook indicators published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland.

Dr. Al Kaabi concluded by expressing her pride in and appreciation for all workers, recognising their contributions to national development and global leadership. She reiterated the importance of respecting their dignity, ensuring their full rights, and enhancing their valuable position in society, while promoting their achievements in a way that contributes to building a better future for humanity.