The Abu Dhabi Government has enacted a comprehensive new human resources law set to take effect on January 1, 2026, marking a strategic overhaul of its employment framework. The legislation aims to position the government as a premier employer for high-performing professionals by modernising its systems and embedding a culture of meritocracy across its workforce of over 25,000.
The 2026 Human Resources Law introduces a fundamental shift in how the government attracts, develops, and retains talent, with a clear focus on competing for skilled experts in critical fields such as AI, technology, and policy. The initiative is spearheaded by the Department of Government Enablement (DGE), which will work with entities across the emirate to ensure effective implementation.
A Strategic Shift to Merit-Based Advancement
The new law moves away from tenure-based progression, establishing merit-based systems across the entire employee lifecycle. High performers will benefit from accelerated promotion pathways that recognise exceptional contributions without being restricted by standard time-in-service requirements.
To further incentivise excellence, the legislation introduces performance-based allowances and reduced probation periods for outstanding new graduates, enabling them to advance more quickly. This signals a clear commitment to rewarding results, ensuring employees who excel are recognised and given opportunities based on their achievements.
His Excellency Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of the DGE, stated, “This law fundamentally modernises how we approach human resources in government. We’re creating an environment where exceptional talent chooses public service, where merit drives advancement, and where high performers are recognised and rewarded.”
Competing for Talent with Modern Benefits
Recognising that top professionals have numerous options in today’s market, the law introduces a suite of competitive benefits designed to attract and retain them. These provisions address the expectations of a modern workforce and position the government to compete directly with the private sector.
Key benefits include entrepreneurship leave, allowing employees to pursue business ventures while maintaining their government careers. The framework also introduces enhanced and flexible parental leave, with doubled paternity provisions and extended maternity support. Furthermore, flexible work arrangements like compressed schedules, optimised hours, and enhanced remote work options provide the adaptability that skilled professionals demand.
“This legislation addresses a practical reality: the most talented professionals have options. They can work anywhere,” said His Excellency Ibrahim Nassir, Undersecretary of DGE. “Government must compete not just on mission, but on how we develop careers and support employees throughout their journey with us.”
Building a Future-Ready Workforce
The legislation modernises core HR systems to build an agile and capable workforce prepared for future challenges, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming an AI-native government. Comprehensive learning and development programmes will provide continuous reskilling opportunities to keep employees current with evolving technological requirements.
Updated leave provisions, including marriage leave and enhanced bereavement support, acknowledge the full scope of employees’ lives. The law also mandates tailored arrangements for People of Determination, ensuring accessibility and inclusion across all government workplaces. By replacing outdated practices, this framework creates an employment environment designed for today’s workforce expectations and tomorrow’s public service needs.
About Department of Government Enablement (DGE)
The Department of Government Enablement (DGE) was established to enhance the performance of the Abu Dhabi government ecosystem by developing and implementing best practices in human resources, digital transformation, and government services. The DGE is responsible for enabling government entities to attract, develop, and retain talent, thereby building a future-ready workforce aligned with Abu Dhabi’s strategic ambitions.
Source: Zawya
