The cost that its migrant workers bear is a negative aspect of the UAE's prosperity.

 

The cost that its migrant workers bear is a negative aspect of the UAE's prosperity. 

A look at the dark side of the UAE's progress: the country thrives on migrant labor, but its workers live in despair. 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is well-known for its rapid economic expansion, advanced infrastructure, effective systems, and impressive innovations, including luxury developments and transportation networks. The country's glistening skyscrapers, pristine beaches, and a sense of freedom that inspires individuals to pursue diverse career paths and form meaningful connections frequently captivate visitors. However, beneath the polished surface lies a more complicated reality.

 During my trip to the UAE in 2022, I became acutely aware of the difficulties that a lot of expatriates face, especially with the time-consuming process of renewing their visas. Expats do not receive Emirati citizenship despite living in the UAE for ten or even fifteen years. Reactions to the Golden Visa system, which was introduced in 2019 to facilitate long-term residency and attract foreign talent and investors, have been mixed. Even though the system was made to let foreigners live in the UAE without having to have a national sponsor, many people, especially those from middle-class families, still have trouble navigating it. Many long-term expats struggle to obtain long-term residency because the application process is complicated and typically reserved for the wealthiest individuals, professionals, or entrepreneurs. 

Even though this system looks promising, it still needs a lot of changes to include everyone who has helped the country grow over time. Even though the United Arab Emirates is a tax-free nation, many residents still face significant challenges in finding housing and becoming citizens. Job scarcity and worker exploitation are growing concerns and even minor infractions can lead to heavy fines.

 Workers frequently endure harsh conditions in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, despite their glittering facades. Many workers are entangled in exploitative contracts because wages are low. 

Workers' passports are sometimes seized by employers to prevent them from leaving the country without permission. Workers, especially those with work visas, frequently put in long shifts in exchange for meager wages, such as 1,100 AED per month—hardly enough to cover living costs or support families back home.

 Overcrowding and inadequate ventilation in labor camps pose serious health risks. Companies can continue to treat their employees badly because, despite the UAE's ongoing investment in modern infrastructure, little attention has been paid to the well-being of workers living in these camps.  The construction industry, which is a key driver of the UAE’s rapid development, is particularly notorious for its labor abuses.   This industry employs thousands of migrant workers, many of whom hail from South Asia. Reports of delayed wages, passport confiscation, and unsafe working conditions are common.

 According to a report released in 2021 by Human Rights Watch, construction workers frequently had to live in overcrowded, filthy labor camps, worked long hours, and had little access to rest or medical care. These workers are often paid a pittance and have no legal recourse if their employers fail to meet contractual obligations.

 I spoke with a worker at Dubai International Airport who, despite his professional attire of a waistcoat and collared shirt, only made 1,500 AED per month. He was stranded at his job and unable to leave the country because his passport had been confiscated and his salary barely covered basic living expenses. His experience is not unique, as many service industry workers—often seen in customer-facing roles in hotels, airports, and malls—face similar challenges.

 Discrimination in the legal system adds yet another layer of difficulty. Between the interview and the first day of work, job titles and responsibilities frequently shift out of the blue, causing confusion. Stricter visa policies, especially for citizens from countries like Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, have been implemented due to negative perceptions tied to fraudulent activities.

 However, these are the very workers who are subjected to the worst working conditions and wages. A 2022 report from the International Labour Organization found that migrant workers from these countries are disproportionately represented in the lower-wage sectors of the economy, where labor exploitation is rampant.

 Before implementing additional policies, the UAE government must conduct thorough research to better understand the systemic issues at play.  Prioritizing the rights and dignity of workers should be a fundamental aspect of any future reforms.

 While the UAE continues to thrive as a global hub of innovation and prosperity, we must acknowledge the challenges faced by its labor force.  The country's growth should not come at the expense of those who contribute to its success.

 By addressing unfair labor practices, improving visa policies, and ensuring better living conditions, the UAE can move toward a more equitable society for all.  The nation can truly realize its dream of progress only if it truly protects the rights of workers.