UAE launches revamped wage protection platform for instant salary transfers
By Dubai Currents Staff1 min read
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has rolled out an enhanced version of the UAE’s Wage Protection System (WPS), moving to a fully digital model that eliminates paperwork and speeds up salary payments for private-sector employees.
Digital-first registration and real-time data exchange
Under the upgraded system, employers no longer need to submit physical documents or visit financial institutions to enrol. Registration is completed online through institutions directly connected to MoHRE’s systems, enabling instant service activation.
The platform is built on a secure digital infrastructure using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that allow real-time data exchange among all parties. This improves accuracy, reliability and shortens wage-processing times, the ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.
Al Etihad Payments, the national payments entity owned by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), developed and operates the upgraded central platform. It creates a direct, instant link between MoHRE’s systems and participating banks and exchange houses.
MoHRE launched the upgrade in collaboration with the CBUAE and Al Etihad Payments. The system was previously upgraded in December 2025 and has now evolved from a compliance tool into a comprehensive digital financial ecosystem, according to the ministry.
New partnerships and coverage expansion
Seven new institutions have joined the platform as strategic partners: First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), Mashreq Bank, Ajman Bank, Lari Exchange and First Gulf Exchange Centre. This brings the total number of partners to 17.
The WPS now covers more than 99 per cent of private-sector workers in the UAE, processing average monthly transfers of Dh37 billion. Officials said the system’s reliability strengthens stability and transparency in the labour market.
Zero bureaucracy and 2031 vision
Dalal Alshehhi, MoHRE’s Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection, said the upgraded WPS has transformed from a wage-compliance mechanism into a comprehensive digital financial ecosystem that supports the UAE’s labour market.
The ministry said the initiative aligns with the Zero Government Bureaucracy policy and supports the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, promoting wider financial inclusion and stronger digital financial governance.
