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Lexis Middle East HR Alert – January 2026
In this edition of Lexis Middle East HR Alert – January 2026, we examine the legal reforms, compliance priorities, and workplace trends shaping employment across the GCC. From wage protection system updates in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to new disability obligations in Qatar and evolving Emiratisation enforcement, this issue delivers concise, practical insight for HR professionals, legal advisers, and business leaders.
With expert commentary, regional news updates, case analysis, and practitioner perspectives, we provide the clarity needed to navigate regulatory change with confidence and stay ahead in a fast-moving employment landscape.
Stay informed, compliant, and connected with the developments shaping the future of HR in the region.
Happy reading!
This edition features a diverse range of content, including:
FEATURE: WAGING WAR ON WPS COMPLIANCE
Natalie Jones of Mischon de Reya LLP reviews recent changes to the UAE and Saudi wage protection systems and outlines the key compliance obligations for employers.
TREND SETTER: MENTAL HEALTH ABSENCE IN SAUDI
Fatima Al-Sabahi of Dentons explores employer and employee rights in cases involving mental health-related absences in Saudi Arabia.
NEWS ROUND-UP: COVERING RECENT KEY DEVELOPMENTS – REGION-WIDE
A summary of the latest HR and employment law updates, including the latest DIFC Courts Practice Direction on employment disputes and other significant HR updates.
IMMIGRATION FOCUS: RECENT GCC IMMIGRATION AND VISA CHANGES
Sponsored by Vialto Partners, this section reviews key immigration reforms and lessons from the UAE’s 2025 Emiratisation enforcement approach.
IMMIGRATION FOCUS: EMIRATISATION COMPLIANCE
Anir Chatterji and Gordon Barr reflect on 2025 Emiratisation trends and provide practical guidance for meeting 2026 requirements.
LAW CHANGES: NEW AND PROPOSED MENA LAWS
Sarit Thomas and Emma Higham assess the impact of Qatar Law No. 22/2025 on disabilities and the resulting employer compliance obligations.
CASE FOCUS
A review of Zia Ur Rehman v Forvis Mazars LLC [2025], a QICDRC ruling addressing costs considerations for litigants in person.
MOVES AND CHANGES
A regional overview of the latest executive movements, leadership appointments, and HR leadership changes across key industries.
Enrich your understanding of the HR landscape and stay up-to-date with the latest trends, cases, and policies through the newest issue of Lexis Middle East – HR Alert.
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HR PROFILE: UNDER STARTER’S ORDERS
Arjenney Cakar shares how working on pre-opening projects strengthened her HR expertise and supports ongoing business growth.
IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE
Jenika Pankhania explains recent amendments to the ADGM data protection regulations and their implications for employers.
POLICY POINTERS: ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
Mary Rintu Raju provides a practical anti-bullying policy template to help organisations strengthen workplace standards.
