Abu Dhabi, June 25, 2025 – In a significant move to safeguard the rights and improve the livelihood of Nepali migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Government of Nepal has officially implemented a revised minimum wage structure for all categories of workers. The new policy, announced by the Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi, comes into effect from 9 Ashadh 2082 B.S. (24 June 2025 A.D.).
This decision is based on the authority conferred by Section 23 of the Foreign Employment Act, 2064, and is aimed at ensuring fair pay for Nepali nationals employed in various sectors in the UAE. The revised wage structure mandates minimum salaries for unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled job categories, along with a food allowance.
📌 Revised Minimum Wage Structure:
| S.N. | Job Category | Basic Salary (AED) | Food Allowance (AED) | Total Monthly Salary (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Unskilled | 1,000 or above | 400 or above | 1,400 or above |
| 2 | Semi-Skilled | 1,200 or above | 400 or above | 1,600 or above |
| 3 | Skilled | 1,500 or above | 400 or above | 1,900 or above |
| 4 | Highly Skilled | 6,000 or above | 400 or above | 6,400 or above |
Mandatory Compliance for All Employers and Agencies
The embassy has made it clear that this revised wage policy is mandatory and non-negotiable, and all recruitment agencies, employers, and stakeholders must comply without exception.
Two key points were highlighted for implementation of a minimum wage for Nepali workers in the UAE:
- New Demand Letters submitted to the Chamber of Commerce in the UAE on or after 24 June 2025 must adhere to the newly revised wage guidelines before being verified by the Embassy.
- Strict Enforcement will be applied by the embassy to ensure that all demand letters and employment contracts reflect the revised wage structure.
Embassy’s Appeal to Employers and Recruitment Agencies
The Embassy has urged all concerned stakeholders—including foreign employment agencies in Nepal, recruitment agents in the UAE, and employers—to align their practices with the new wage policy. This measure is intended to promote dignity, fair compensation, and better working conditions for the thousands of Nepali workers who contribute to the UAE’s labor market.
This notice is especially critical for:
- Recruitment agencies operating in Nepal and UAE
- Employers in sectors like construction, hospitality, security, cleaning, and caregiving
- Prospective Nepali job seekers and their families
- Nepali diplomatic missions and labor attachés in the Gulf region
For More Information:
Embassy of Nepal, Abu Dhabi
📍 P.O. Box: 38282 – Abu Dhabi, UAE
📞 Tel: 02-6344767 / 6344385 / 6344469
📧 Email: eonabudhabi@mofa.gov.np
🌐 Website: www.ae.nepalembassy.gov.np
Why This Matters
The move is widely seen as a much-needed update that reflects the increasing cost of living and labor standards in the UAE. With thousands of Nepali workers contributing to key sectors such as construction, security, hospitality, and domestic services, this wage revision marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect migrant labor rights.
As the new rule takes effect, stakeholders are expected to swiftly align their operations to ensure full compliance and avoid legal complications.
