Dubai Free Zones Council Approves Emirati Internship Plan and Reviews Unemployment Insurance

The free zones host much of Dubai's foreign corporate presence, and the programme gives those companies a structured way to hire Emirati staff. Free zone employers have generally faced lighter Emiratisation requirements than mainland firms. According to the council, the placements will be matched to priority sectors and newer specialisations in coordination with universities. Companies will be able to recruit the trainees they need, with a route from training into employment that the council said supports Emiratisation goals.

On labour regulation, the council said work with other government bodies has produced a digital employment contract for free zones. It covers the issuance of work permits and the cancellation and amendment of employment contracts. Work is continuing on a residence permit renewal service for employees of free zone companies and authorities.

Members also discussed a unified framework to protect workers' rights and make sure their entitlements are paid on time. On unemployment insurance, the council directed technical teams to examine how it would be implemented and what it would mean, without giving a timetable.

The council reviewed a plan for shared government digital channels and looked at linking free zone authorities' services to them. It said the aim was a smoother investor journey that keeps the free zones' competitive and regulatory advantages, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The meeting also discussed closer cooperation among free zone authorities on research and development, including support for research centres in the zones.

The council reviewed preparations for Dubai Future Week, which runs from 18 to 21 November. Organisers expect about 10,000 participants at 75 events across five tracks and eight main platforms.

The council did not say when the student training programme will start, how many students it will take or which companies will join.