The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has introduced an advanced artificial intelligence (AI)–driven system to significantly reduce the time required to issue establishment quotas and work permits, reinforcing the country’s commitment to smart governance and ease of doing business.
The new system replaces traditionally manual and time-intensive processes with automated, data-driven decision-making. Tasks that earlier took up to ten days can now be completed within minutes and in some cases, almost instantly marking a major leap in labour market efficiency.
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Faster Processing, Reduced Human Intervention
Under the AI-powered framework, MoHRE has reduced human review requirements by more than half, eliminated several approval layers, and removed manual processing steps entirely for many services. The system automatically verifies critical data such as passports, employment contracts, and image quality, significantly reducing errors and delays.
Call review times have reportedly dropped from ten minutes to two minutes, saving over 1,000 working hours and cutting operational costs by nearly 99 per cent. Customer queries are now addressed through automated digital channels, enabling instant responses without human intervention.
Integrated Services Through a Unified Platform
MoHRE has also enhanced its “Work Bundle” platform, which consolidates multiple labour-related services into a single digital interface. Businesses can submit data once, make a single payment, and complete transactions across relevant authorities seamlessly.
The platform now includes services related to domestic workers, residence permits, and employment approvals, while reducing required data fields from 50 to just 16. This integrated approach simplifies compliance, improves transparency, and accelerates workforce onboarding for employers.
AI-Based Risk Prediction and Inspections
Beyond permit issuance, MoHRE has deployed AI to predict labour market risks and enhance occupational health and safety oversight. The system dynamically evaluates risk factors, identifies establishments requiring proactive inspections, and conducts real-time trend analysis to ensure full coverage of high-risk entities.
This predictive model enables faster responses to potential violations while supporting informed regulatory decision-making and improved workplace compliance.
Advancing the Zero Government Bureaucracy Agenda
The AI rollout forms part of the UAE’s broader Zero Government Bureaucracy programme, aimed at eliminating unnecessary procedures, reducing paperwork, and delivering fully digital, customer-centric government services.
By leveraging artificial intelligence at scale, MoHRE is setting a new benchmark for labour administration efficiency, supporting business growth, and strengthening the UAE’s position as a globally competitive destination for investment and talent.
