Filipino Workers Face Challenges in Dubai

Frustration and Anticipation: Filipino Workers in Dubai Fight for Contract Verification

The nearly one million Filipino workers (OFWs) in the United Arab Emirates rely heavily on the contract verification process, which is crucial for obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). This certificate is essential for them to return to the UAE for work after visiting home. Despite the launch of a new online verification system by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Dubai on July 7, 2024, the service is in its pilot phase and its limited capacity is causing numerous difficulties.

What is contract verification and why is it important?

The purpose of contract verification is to ensure that Filipino citizens' employment contracts comply with both local and Philippine laws. This not only enhances legal security but also helps authorities know exactly where and under what conditions OFWs are working in case of an emergency. Additionally, a verified contract allows access to various services such as opening a bank account or registering for a pension scheme.

The challenges and implementation of the new online system

The new system is theoretically designed to facilitate document submission and verification without requiring personal appearances at the MWO office. In practice, however, the daily limit of only 200 appointment slots fills up quickly, and many people find themselves struggling to secure a slot, often attempting to do so at dawn or late at night. The battle to book an appointment has almost become a daily routine for those intending to return to the system.

Those who fail to secure an appointment often have to appear in person at the office, resulting in long queues and stress. Some reports indicate waiting times of five to six hours, with lines snaking down the street in the summer heat. Upon arrival, people are frequently shuffled from one desk to another, with the procedure often becoming opaque and exhausting.

Digital challenges and suggestions

Several OFWs have emphasized that the new system is not user-friendly, despite being online. Many lament that the MWO and consulate websites are outdated and lack modern technological solutions. A mobile application or an AI-supported processing system could significantly speed up and simplify the process.

Others have also suggested expanding the online verification option to include lower-income workers, as the feature is currently unavailable below certain income levels. Inclusivity is crucial, especially for communities that rely more heavily on official documentation to secure employment opportunities.

What lies ahead after the pilot phase?

According to the MWO, the current limited slot system is solely related to the system's trial run. At the end of the period, the evaluation will include customer feedback, internal reports, and public comments to determine how to improve the system and expand its accessibility. One possibility includes involving evaluators based in the Philippines who can reduce the load on the Dubai team through remote assessment.

Conclusion

For Filipino workers in Dubai, the contract verification process currently presents more challenges than advantages. Although the new system represents a step in the right direction, the limited appointments, long queues, and technological shortcomings indicate that there is much room for improvement. The goal is a faster, more efficient, and fairer system that takes into account the everyday realities and needs of OFWs. One of Dubai's most active communities deserves better service—not just for efficiency but for human dignity as well.

(Source of the article: Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) statement.)