Regional Social Security & Employment Regulatory Updates

Executive summary

The GCC employment landscape continues to evolve at pace, driven by ambitious government reform agendas, workforce nationalisation strategies, and increasing digitalisation of labour and social security frameworks. As regulatory expectations continue to advance, organisations have an opportunity to strengthen compliance, enhance workforce governance, and prepare for the future of work across the region.

In this Q1 2026 edition, we explore the latest social security and employment developments impacting employers across Bahrain, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.

Highlights:

• Bahrain’s implementation of the enhanced Wage Protection System (WPS 2.0) for private sector employers.
• Oman’s phased social protection reforms and the upcoming mandatory savings scheme for foreign employees.
• UAE labour law developments, enhanced digital employment processes, and the extension of the Nafis programme to 2040 in support of long-term Emiratisation goals.

The report explores the practical implications of these developments, helping organisations navigate evolving requirements while building agile, future-ready workforce strategies.

Read the full publication for detailed insights into key regulatory developments, implementation timelines, and employer considerations shaping the employment landscape across the GCC.