The GCC governments are driving major labour market reforms to boost local employment.
The labour market in the Arabian Gulf has undergone major changes in the past few years. The diversification of their economies away from oil have necessitated these reforms. Many of these reforms are targeted at bringing in foreign opportunities, international skill while some at increasing occupations for their residents and reducing reliance upon expatriate employees. Historically, the option of high paying jobs within the public sector has frustrated residents from pursuing technical and vocational training. Because of this, it has an oversupply of university graduates as well as an undersupply of skilled workers in sectors like engineering, health care, and information technology. Governments acknowledging this issue have focused on aligning the education system with the needs for the labour market by advancing professional and technical training. Also, they will have established organizations that offer hands-on instruction that equips graduates with the skills required in certain companies. Specialists on GCC labour markets argue that investing in these institutions have increased citizen's work since they are providing customised training programmes that give graduates a higher likelihood of going into the work market with industry appropriate skills. These reforms are designed to keep a balance involving the requirements of businesses, the aspiration of residents as well as the needs for sustainable growth .
GCC governments are taking significant strides to reform their labour market. The area heavily relies on international labour which has long affected the rate of unemployment among residents. GCC countries' reliance on international labour has long posed difficulties for their economies and societies. Multinational corporations and the non-public sector in general opt for foreign workers in several sectors. To address this problem measures have been implemented to mandate companies to hire a specific portion of local residents. These quotas are to ensure job opportunities are given to the deserving residents that have the required skills and skills. On the other hand, GCC countries will also be reforming laws pertaining to working conditions and advantages for both local and international workers. Take for example, work-related safety, governments are enforcing strict legislation and recommendations in that regard. Companies are now obliged to give right security gear, conduct regular risk assessments and spend money on training programmes for employees as would the lawyer Louise Flanagan in Ras Al Khaimah likely attest.
Labour laws within the Middle East are improving for both regional and foreign employees. Governments have recently started setting criteria for minimum wages, working hours and work-related safety. The area is witnessing an optimistic shift towards reasonable and supportive working environments as would lawyers such as Salem Al Kait and Ammar Haykal in Ras Al Khaimah likely recommend. Workers are also becoming more aware of their legal rights and increasingly demanding protections provided to them, there is a greater increased exposure of fair treatment, respect and help from employers.