Abu Dhabi introduces merit-based HR law to attract global talent to the public sector
Abu Dhabi has approved sweeping reforms to public employment designed to attract top global talent and embed performance-based progression across government.
“This law greatly improves the way we deal with employees in the government,” said Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Department of Open Government. “We are creating an environment where exceptional talent chooses public service, where merit drives development, and where top performers are recognized and rewarded.”
Labor Law No. (08) of 2025, which comes into force on 1 January 2026, will apply to more than 25,000 public servants and marks a significant shift from time-based programs to achieving efficiency, effectiveness and results.
Abu Dhabi adjusts public sector recruitment
The law introduces competitive benefits that match the expectations of modern workers, faster career paths for top performers and performance-based bonuses that eliminate the requirement to wait for time-based advancement. Outstanding graduates will benefit from reduced testing times, allowing for faster advancement of those who demonstrate early ability.
Officials say the changes support Abu Dhabi’s desire to build an aging government that can deliver advanced public services and compete globally for talent in fields including artificial intelligence, technology and policy.
“The best professionals are looking for organizations that invest in their development, reward excellence, and provide clear career paths,” said Al Kuttab. “This legislation ensures that we meet those expectations. It’s about attracting the caliber of talent that will drive our progress toward AI Native Government.”
Ibrahim Nassir, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Government Empowerment, said the changes reflect the realities of a competitive global talent market. “This law addresses a practical reality: highly skilled professionals have options. They can work anywhere. Government must compete not just for work, but for how we develop jobs and support workers throughout their journey with us.”
The law introduces business leave, expanded parental benefits including double parental leave, flexible and remote work options, and revised leave policies. Complementary provisions ensure accessibility and inclusion of Willing Persons.
“We’ve created work-life balance arrangements that recognize that employees have lives, families, and passions beyond their desks,” Nassir said. “This is how modern organizations attract and retain exceptional people, with this law, this is how the Government of Abu Dhabi works.”
The Government Accreditation Department will oversee the implementation across government agencies as part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to build a future-ready public sector workforce.
