UAE: New Automated Services for Work Permit Renewals, Cancellations Introduced by MOHRE

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in the UAE is making employment services faster and more streamlined through automation, reducing bureaucracy and simplifying processes. Key services, including work permit renewals and cancellations, have been automated, enabling transactions to be processed in just one business day.

Automated Work Permit Renewals and Cancellations

Previously requiring in-person visits, work permit renewals can now be completed automatically through MOHRE’s smart application without submitting documents. This system is integrated with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), which enables additional services to be completed instantly.

MOHRE also removed the need for procedures or documentation in the cancellation of work permits for employees outside the UAE, deceased individuals, those with contagious diseases, and unused permits. Status adjustments for work permit violators renewing with their current employers are now 50% more efficient, with reduced paperwork.

Streamlined Core Employment Services

MOHRE’s automation efforts have transformed essential employment services, including:

• Issuance and renewal of work permits and contracts for establishments and domestic workers
• Cancellation of work permits or contracts
• Processing of labour complaints

These services now require 76% fewer documents, using data integration from other governmental entities, and can be completed within a one-day processing time thanks to AI technology.

New Smart Services and Faster Access

MOHRE introduced additional digital services:

• Job Experience Certificates: Now available within two minutes.
• Electronic Authorization Service: Free and completed in under two minutes with an 80% reduction in procedures.

Advanced AI Platform and Inspection System

With migration to the Federal Network (FEDnet) cloud infrastructure, MOHRE launched an AI platform to enhance efficiency. Establishments with multiple activities now benefit from a three-hour process completion time instead of the previous three-month period. The platform uses AI to determine the primary activity for new establishment cards.

MOHRE’s smart inspection system also proactively monitors labour market risks, ranks establishments by risk level, and directs inspections to higher-risk entities.

Integrated Service Packages for Clients

MOHRE’s “Zero Government Bureaucracy” initiative has consolidated services into three main packages in collaboration with strategic partners:

Work Bundle: Provides essential services for private-sector companies and individuals, integrating work and residency procedures through the ‘Work in UAE’ digital platform.

Dubai Platforms: ‘Invest in Dubai’ and ‘Dubai Now’ platforms—developed with partners like Dubai Health Authority and the Department of Economy and Tourism—offer streamlined services for hiring, residency renewals, and cancellations, including those for domestic workers.

Investor Journey – Abu Dhabi: A comprehensive package developed with Abu Dhabi authorities, offering 100% reductions in procedures and documentation for establishing new businesses.

Through these transformative changes, MOHRE is supporting the UAE’s labour market with efficient, user-friendly digital solutions designed to meet modern employment needs.