UAE Chairs 11th Meeting Of BRICS Employment Working Group To Address Labour Market Challenges

The United Arab Emirates chaired the 11th Meeting of the Employment Working Group (EWG) for BRICS countries on 25th April 2025 in Brasília, Brazil. This leadership role underscores the UAE's significant influence within BRICS since joining nearly two years ago. The meeting focused on addressing social and employment challenges, such as technological advancements and climate change, which impact labour markets and require inclusive governance models.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, emphasised the UAE's dedication to fostering cooperation among BRICS nations. He highlighted the need for workforce readiness amid rapid technological changes and a fair climate transition to ensure a sustainable future. "Artificial intelligence has become a pillar of the UAE’s global positioning as a destination of choice for living, working, and investment," he stated.

Al Awar explained that AI offers opportunities to improve life quality, boost productivity, and enhance societal wellbeing. The UAE is committed to integrating AI across sectors, building national talent, and developing a sustainable economic ecosystem. He noted that AI is projected to contribute around 13.6% to the UAE's GDP and improve operational efficiency by up to 50%.

The Minister highlighted the UAE's early adoption of AI in line with its leadership's vision to lead in AI innovation by 2031. Various strategies have been launched to prepare for the future. The UAE ranks second globally in attracting AI talent and is among the top five for AI competitiveness. By 2030, it is expected to rank third worldwide in terms of AI's GDP contribution.

In 2024, the UAE labour market saw remarkable growth with a 12% increase in workers overall, 13% in skilled workers, and a 17% rise in companies. Al Awar stressed the importance of modern legislative structures that meet labour market needs amid global economic shifts. The country leads regionally in using digital solutions for public infrastructure development.

The UAE prioritises social protection and fair working conditions while integrating AI into its labour market. Its innovative social protection umbrella covers all work categories, including non-standard models and platform-based workers. Legislation updates facilitate flexible work arrangements for skilled professionals.

Addressing Climate Change

The UAE was first in its region to address heat stress with a mandatory midday break policy introduced in 2005. Efforts focus on flexible labour policies that reduce carbon footprints and enhance safety standards in climate-vulnerable sectors. The Emirates aims to expand innovative social protection programmes like Unemployment Insurance Scheme and Savings Scheme.

Al Awar emphasised public-private partnerships' importance in aligning education with green economy needs. Strengthening ties with higher education institutions ensures programmes specialise in renewable energy fields.

The meeting underscored the UAE's commitment to sustainable development through technological integration and climate-conscious policies. By fostering international cooperation within BRICS, it aims to build resilient economies ready for future challenges.

With inputs from WAM