The dark side of UAE’s prosperity is the price paid by its migrant workers

The UAE thrives on migrant labor, but its workers live in despair: a look at the darker side of the country’s progress

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its rapid economic growth, modern infrastructure, efficient systems, and impressive innovations, from transportation networks to luxury developments.

Visitors often find themselves captivated by the country’s glistening skyscrapers, pristine beaches, and sense of freedom that encourages individuals to pursue diverse career paths and form meaningful connections.

However, beneath the polished surface lies a more complicated reality.

During my visit to the UAE in 2022, I became acutely aware of the challenges that many expatriates face—particularly with the rigid visa renewal process. Expats, despite spending 10 or even 15 years in the UAE, remain non-citizens and are not granted Emirati status.

The Golden Visa system, which was introduced in 2019 to simplify residency for long-term residents and attract foreign investors and talent, has faced mixed reactions. While the system was designed to allow foreigners to live in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor, it still remains difficult to navigate for many, particularly those from middle-class backgrounds.

The application process is complex and often reserved for the wealthiest individuals, professionals, or entrepreneurs, leaving many long-term expats struggling to secure long-term residency.

This system, though promising, still requires significant reform to be inclusive of all those who have contributed to the country’s development over the years.

Although the UAE boasts a tax-free environment, securing housing and attaining citizenship remain significant hurdles for many residents. Job scarcity and worker exploitation are growing concerns, and even minor infractions can lead to heavy fines.

Behind the glitzy image of cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, workers often face harsh conditions. Wages are low, and many workers find themselves trapped in exploitative contracts. Employers sometimes confiscate workers’ passports, preventing them from leaving the country without permission.

Laborers, particularly those on work visas, often work long hours for meager salaries, such as 1,100 AED per month—barely enough to cover living expenses, let alone support families back home.

Conditions in labor camps are overcrowded and poorly ventilated, posing serious health risks. Despite the UAE’s ongoing investment in modern infrastructure, little attention has been given to the welfare of workers living in these camps, enabling companies to continue mistreating their employees.

The construction industry, which is a key driver of the UAE’s rapid development, is particularly notorious for its labor abuses. Thousands of migrant workers are employed in this sector, with many coming from South Asia. Reports of delayed wages, passport confiscation, and unsafe working conditions are common.

A 2021 Human Rights Watch report highlighted that workers employed in construction were often forced to live in overcrowded, unsanitary labor camps, and subjected to harsh working hours with little access to rest or healthcare. 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 appearance—wearing a collared shirt and waistcoat—earned only 1,500 AED per month. His salary barely covered basic living costs, and his passport had been confiscated, leaving him stranded in his job without the freedom to leave the country.

His experience is not unique, as many service industry workers—often seen in customer-facing roles in hotels, airports, and malls—face similar challenges.

Legal discrimination adds yet another layer of difficulty. Job titles and responsibilities often change unexpectedly between the interview and the first day of work, creating 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 facing the worst wages and working conditions. 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, it is crucial for the UAE government to 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. Only by genuinely safeguarding workers’ rights can the country truly fulfill its vision of progress.