In this edition of the Lexis Middle East HR Alert, we explore the most pressing legal, regulatory, and HR developments shaping the employment landscape across the region, with a particular focus on the ongoing impact of nationalisation policies. These legislative initiatives remain a central concern for HR professionals, regardless of their industry or jurisdiction. Alongside the need to understand the evolving legal requirements, organisations must also adopt a practical and culturally sensitive approach to implementation. In our featured interview, the Head of HR Operations at Al Tamimi & Company shares how their organisation is proactively and innovatively adapting to these changes. However, not all responses have been as constructive—some employers are attempting to circumvent the rules through misreporting or fraudulent hiring practices. With the introduction of stricter enforcement mechanisms and the implementation of Cabinet Decision No. 43/2025, the UAE authorities are shifting from discretionary to structured penalties, significantly increasing the scope of punishable offences and the severity of fines. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s Enforcement Report 2024 underscores the government’s readiness to prosecute offenders, further raising the stakes for non-compliance. This edition offers practical insights and guidance to help organisations assess their compliance status and, where necessary, take swift and innovative action to align with nationalisation goals in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Empower your HR strategy with cutting-edge analysis from Lexis Middle East HR Alert, delivering the latest updates shaping workplaces in the Middle East.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

FEATURE: GETTING TOUCH

Raka Roy and Yusur Dalloul of Galadari Advocates and Legal Consultants delve into the UAE’s stricter enforcement measures against individuals and companies that falsify records to bypass Emiratisation rules or improperly benefit from related incentives.

---

TREND SETTER: AUTOMATED WORKFORCE MONITORING

Diana Froyland, Senior Counsel at Hadef & Partners, examines the implications of automated employee monitoring in the UAE and the data privacy concerns it raises for employers and HR teams.

---

NEWS ROUND-UP: COVERING RECENT KEY DEVELOPMENTS – REGION-WIDE

This section presents a curated summary of major legal and HR updates from across the region, including the latest on Oman’s immigration grace period.

---

IMMIGRATION FOCUS: SAUDI VISIT VISA CHANGES

Experts from Vialto Partners explain the recent revisions to Saudi Arabia’s visit visa policies, which now affect travellers from 14 countries, highlighting compliance considerations for affected stakeholders.

---

LAW CHANGES: NEW AND PROPOSED MENA LAWS

Aarti Thadani and Sarah Sheppard from Norton Rose Fulbright (Middle East) LLP discuss the anticipated impact of Dubai Decree No. 19/2025, a regulatory shift set to enhance health and safety protocols in the emirate’s construction sector.

---

CASE FOCUS

A recent ruling from the QICDRC in Zia Ur Rehman v Forvis Mazars LLC [2025] QIC (A) 7 (issued 14 May 2025) underscores the need for robust evidence in breach of contract claims, the conditions under which non-compete compensation may apply, and the high threshold for appeals.

---

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.

For all the latest industry updates and developments, opt for a free HR Alert subscription!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East HR Alert – previous editions? Click the links below to access and read these editions.

---

HR PROFILE: AN AGILE APPROACH TO CHANGE

Samia AlRajaby, Head of HR Operations at Al Tamimi & Company, shares how adopting an agile mindset has empowered her to navigate technological transformation and shifting generational expectations.

---

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Ben Brown, Sara Khoja and Sarit Thomas of Clyde & Co offer insights into evolving leave policies following a significant recent decision by the Abu Dhabi Courts, urging a strategic review for in-house teams.

---

POLICY POINTERS: FRACTIONAL EXECUTIVES IN SAUDI ARABIA

Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim, Partner at Pinsent Masons, explores the growing adoption of fractional executives in Saudi Arabia, driven by remote work and the Regional Headquarters Programme, and highlights key policy considerations such as Saudisation.

---

MOVES AND CHANGES

Stay informed with the latest executive appointments, promotions, and market trends shaping the business landscape across the region.

---

In this edition of Lexis Middle East HR Alert, we bring you a curated selection of the most pressing HR, legal, and regulatory developments shaping the employment landscape across the Middle East. From sweeping changes in Saudi labour law to evolving expectations around flexible work in the UAE’s blue collar sector, this issue is packed with expert insights, legal updates, and practical guidance for HR professionals, legal advisors, and business leaders alike.

As organisations across the region navigate complex immigration frameworks, new compliance requirements, and shifting workforce dynamics, our contributors provide the clarity and context needed to stay ahead. With in-depth features, real-world case reviews, and spotlights on key figures driving HR transformation, the LME HR Alert continues to serve as a trusted resource for understanding the policies and trends that matter most.

As organisations across the region navigate complex immigration frameworks, new compliance requirements, and shifting workforce dynamics, our contributors provide the clarity and context needed to stay ahead. With in-depth features, real-world case reviews, and spotlights on key figures driving HR transformation, the LME HR Alert continues to serve as a trusted resource for understanding the policies and trends that matter most.

Stay ahead of the curve with Lexis Middle East HR Alert, as we provide you with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of HR in the Middle East.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

FEATURE: FRAMEWORK IMPLEMENTED

Shiraz Sethi and Fatima Al-Sabahi of Dentons delve into the key reforms introduced in the Saudi Labour Law following the release of its implementing regulations. Their analysis highlights the significant changes impacting employment relationships, enforcement mechanisms, and employer compliance obligations in the Kingdom.

---

TREND SETTER: MORE FLEXIBLE BLUE COLLAR JOBS

With a mounting talent shortage in the UAE’s blue collar workforce, businesses are exploring more flexible working arrangements. Mary Rintu Raju of NYK Law outlines the legal implications and operational considerations of rolling out flexible models for this often-overlooked sector.

---

NEWS ROUND-UP: COVERING RECENT KEY DEVELOPMENTS – REGION-WIDE

This section captures a selection of important legal and HR news, including changes to company structures in UAE freezones and other updates from across the MENA region.

---

IMMIGRATION FOCUS: SAUDI ARABIA IMMIGRATION UPDATE

Ali Ibrahim of Vialto Partners provides a comprehensive update on Saudi Arabia’s immigration regulations. His commentary offers vital guidance on how these changes may affect both employers and foreign nationals working in the Kingdom.

---

LAW CHANGES: NEW AND PROPOSED MENA LAWS

Explore recent and upcoming legal reforms, including newly proposed rules affecting work permits in Kuwait—changes that may impact workforce planning and compliance across multiple jurisdictions.

---

CASE FOCUS:

This issue includes a review of a recent QICDRC ruling in Clare Holloway v MBG Corporate Services LLC (QFC Case No. 0059/2024), where the Court of First Instance addressed the issue of premature litigation. Mohammed Al Ansari highlights the court’s approach to jurisdiction and procedural compliance.

---

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.

For all the latest industry updates and developments, opt for a free HR Alert subscription!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East HR Alert – previous editions? Click the links below to access and read these editions.

---

HR PROFILE: CREATING CHANGE

Nishanth Krishnan, Director of People Advisory and Business Consulting at Grant Thornton UAE, shares insights into the strategic HR interventions needed to lead and manage successful organisational change in today’s climate.

---

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Henrietta Baker and Kahroba Kojouri of Dentons discuss proposed amendments to the Saudi Personal Data Protection Law Implementing Regulations (Saudi Arabia Administrative Decision No. 1516/1445).

---

POLICY POINTERS: WORKING HOURS IN KUWAIT

Bader Al-Qellaish of Wefaq Law Firm reviews the legal frameworks governing working hours in Kuwait, with practical considerations for policy compliance and workforce wellbeing.

---

MOVES AND CHANGES

Stay updated on the newest business trends, significant appointments, and promotions in the region to stay connected with the market’s key influencers.

---