The Economy of the UAE
Expatriates, Labour and the Kafala Debate
Foreign workers drive the economy, from executives to construction labourers, and their rights and conditions remain a global concern.
Nine in ten residents are foreigners.
Roles
Foreigners work in every sector, from finance to construction and domestic work.
Conditions
Low-wage workers often live in shared accommodation, and rules have been reformed to improve protection.
Remittances
Large sums are sent back to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines and other countries.
Pathways
Long-term residence options like the Golden Visa have widened.
A Kerala carpenter
He sends money home each month and returns for a visit each year.
Assuming all expatriates have similar experiences
Conditions vary greatly.
Key takeaways
- Foreigners are the majority.
- Conditions differ widely.
- Remittances are large.
- Long-term visas have expanded.
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