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Last updated on May 29th, 2026 at 09:01 am
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has unveiled new rules on worker accommodation and conditions that will boost the standard of living for all employees in the UAE. The new rules prioritise worker well-being, access to healthcare and worker dignity, including the provision of free internet access in all worker accommodations (must have 24/7 access).
The reforms form part of the UAE’s overall initiative to enhance labour welfare policies and provide more compassionate working conditions for the UAE’s vast expatriate population. The new guidelines have been introduced to enhance the physical environment and also to benefit the emotional and mental health of workers, officials say.
Being able to communicate with loved ones is an integral part of everyday life for millions of migrant workers who live away from home. With long hours at work and distances that can be far from home, video calls, messaging and online communication keep employees connected to their families.
The obligation of the UAE to provide free internet services for employees reflects the rising importance of internet services in the life of employees. Internet services help employees stay in constant touch with their family members, do money transfers, access governmental services, and seek help during times of emergency.
The move is expected to improve the mental well-being of employees. Migrant workers often have to endure isolation and homesickness, particularly if they have been living overseas for more than a few years. Being able to talk to the family members can decrease stress and make them feel as though they are there to support you.
Internet access is also of benefit to workers, as it allows them to be updated with information about their rights, employment rules, health services and official announcements. Connectivity has become a basic need and not a luxury anymore in today’s digital economy.
New standards include free 24-hour internet access to residents in all licensed worker accommodations.
The rule would be observed in all approved labour housing facilities and aim to provide workers with continuous access to the Internet, irrespective of income. The move is meant to be in the interests of the workers’ welfare and social inclusion, authorities say.
Mobile internet expenses can be a huge portion of many workers’ paychecks. Internet access can be provided at no cost within the home and may ease strains on family finances while maintaining a way of communication with families overseas.
The revised standards also add enhanced healthcare provisions in the accommodation provision for workers.
All licensed facilities are now required to have first aid facilities. For camps of 1,000 or more workers, employers will be obliged to offer workers access to medical clinics that are open around the clock.
Doctors, nurses, and Ambulances should also be available for the reforms. These measures are designed to facilitate quicker emergency response and provide workers with timely access to basic healthcare support.
In recent years, the UAE has been keen to emphasise workplace health and safety reforms, especially in the industries that are known for having high levels of migrant workers, like construction, logistics, manufacturing and infrastructure development.
The new provisions are not just health and connectivity; they cover the conditions in which workers live in worker housing.
Employers and accommodation providers will be expected to supply clean water and clean sanitation facilities and to improve the overall level of hygiene. The changes also stimulate social and recreational areas for the workers to enjoy during their off-work hours.
There are opportunities to develop healthier social environments and enhance the quality of life through the use of dedicated recreation areas. Access to communal areas enables staff to meet up, be active and engage in activities that contribute to the mental and emotional well-being of all.
The UAE’s new initiative is part of a trend in the world’s attention on providing decent worker housing, which goes beyond the minimum level of housing.
A second important aspect of the reforms is that workers’ rights information is now provided in multiple languages in accommodation.
Workers are now required to be provided with written information on their rights, the services available from the Government and options for making complaints in languages that they can understand. This is to raise awareness and to make sure that workers have access to support, if required.
Giving information in several languages can facilitate less ambiguity regarding job contracts, pay, access to health care, and the dispute resolution procedures. It also improves transparency between employer and employee.
The labour accommodation reform undertaken by the UAE government represents the general trend that sees an increase in focus on human conditions at the work place. Alongside the other reforms such as improved accessibility to the Internet, health care facilities, and improved conditions, the overall idea is to provide more humane and safe conditions to employees living away from their homes and families.
The modifications may extend beyond regulatory modifications concerning the migrant worker community. They are indicative of a heightened awareness of the need for mental well-being and daily assistance for workers in another country.
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