The Government of Abu Dhabi has implemented a groundbreaking Human Resources Law aimed at transforming public sector employment and enhancing its status as a preferred employer. Set to take effect on January 1, 2026, the law will cover a workforce exceeding 25,000 government employees.
Known as Human Resources Law No. (08) of 2025, this legislation introduces a merit-based employment model designed to attract, nurture, and retain top-tier professionals. It focuses heavily on performance, skills, and outcomes, moving away from conventional tenure-based frameworks.
Merit-Driven Hiring and Growth
The new law establishes transparent, meritocratic systems throughout the employment journey. Recruitment, promotions, and career advancements will be determined by performance and proven capabilities, rather than duration of service.
Top performers will enjoy expedited promotion paths, while performance-linked allowances will acknowledge exceptional contributions. Promising graduates will benefit from shorter probation periods, facilitating quicker advancement for leading talent.
Attractive Benefits to Draw Talent
To secure skilled experts in areas like AI, technology, and specialized services, the law introduces innovative and adaptable benefits that align with global standards.
Highlights include entrepreneurship leave, allowing staff to explore business opportunities while retaining their government roles. Updated parental leave policies offer extended maternity and double paternity leave, underscoring a commitment to family welfare. Flexible work arrangements, including remote options and tailored hours, further enhance work-life harmony.
Commitment to Learning, Inclusion, and Wellbeing
This law fortifies learning and development initiatives with continuous upskilling and reskilling opportunities, ensuring that employees are equipped for swift technological and policy shifts.
Revised leave policies encompass marriage leave, enhanced bereavement support, and caregiving flexibility. The legislation also introduces customized workplace setups for People of Determination, reinforcing inclusion and accessibility within government entities.
Voices from Leadership
His Excellency Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Department of Government Enablement (DGE), remarked that the law signifies a fundamental change in talent management, promoting a culture where merit is rewarded.
His Excellency Ibrahim Nassir, Undersecretary of DGE, highlighted that top talent has global options and emphasized the need for the government to attract professionals through robust career growth, flexibility, and modern working conditions.
Preparing for the Future
By embedding meritocracy and revamping HR systems in accordance with international talent management practices, this new law supports Abu Dhabi's goal of becoming an agile and high-performing government, with aspirations of being AI-native.
The Department of Government Enablement will collaborate closely with all government offices to ensure effective implementation and integration of the new systems ahead of the 2026 rollout.
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