New Human Resources Rules Tighten Hiring and Promotions in Abu Dhabi

Stricter controls on hiring, appointments and promotions have been introduced across government entities in Abu Dhabi under the Executive Regulations of Law No. 8 of 2025. Issued by the Department of Government Enablement, the framework prioritises qualified UAE nationals for government roles. The appointment of non-nationals is permitted only when no suitable Emirati candidate is available and requires departmental approval.
Under the regulations, new hires are placed at the lowest sub-grade within the approved job grade, with limited exceptions allowing heads of entities to appoint at a higher sub-grade for up to 5% of targeted positions within human resources strategic plans. The framework outlines nine general conditions for employment, including nationality requirements, minimum age, completion of national service or proof of status, good conduct, medical fitness and verified academic qualifications. Candidates must also meet job-specific experience criteria.
A four-tier priority system governs recruitment, starting with UAE national employees within the same entity, followed by employees from other government entities, candidates with private sector experience and registered job seekers. Appointments must be approved by entity heads based on recommendations from human resources committees and supported by budget allocations.
Anti-nepotism provisions prohibit involvement in hiring decisions involving relatives, require disclosure of such relationships and restrict direct supervisory relationships between related employees. New appointees must also declare any concurrent government employment and confirm pension status.
Promotion criteria prioritise employees based on performance evaluations, tenure, academic qualifications and job-related experience. Employees may not receive more than one promotion per year, while exceptional promotions cannot be repeated within less than three years.
Upon promotion, employees receive either the full salary of the new grade or a 5% increase, whichever is higher, with allowances applied based on eligibility. Certain contract categories are excluded from promotion eligibility.
The regulations also introduce a graduate trainee development programme for newly graduated UAE nationals, including training contracts, performance evaluations and potential appointment to grades 4 to 6 upon successful completion.