Following the significant changes to the anti-money laundering (AML) regulations that came into force in 2025, the next step in strengthening business transparency in the UAE has been the tightening of payroll compliance requirements via the Wage Protection System (WPS). One of the most critical components of meeting these updated standards is the clear and timely payment of salaries.
The WPS is a government-mandated electronic platform established in 2009 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE), in collaboration with the Central Bank of the UAE. It was designed to ensure that salaries in the private sector are paid on time and in full, through approved banks and financial institutions. In 2025, the regulations governing the WPS became even stricter. The system now applies not only to mainland UAE companies but also to most businesses operating in free zones. Moreover, new professional categories that were previously excluded are now required to be registered in the system.
It’s important to understand that the WPS is far from a formality — in 2025, non-compliance can cost a company its license, significant fines, and reputational damage.
What changed in 2025?
As of 1 April 2025, employers must register the following professional categories under the WPS: private tutors, domestic caregivers, private agents, private agricultural engineers, and personal trainers. The system’s primary purpose remains the same — to ensure that wages are paid in full and on time through approved financial channels.
According to the updated rules, employers must pay at least 80% of each employee’s salary and ensure that at least 90% of the workforce receives their salaries regularly. Payments must be made within 10 working days from the contractual salary date.
As of 1 April 2025, employers must register the following professional categories under the WPS: private tutors, domestic caregivers, private agents, private agricultural engineers, and personal trainers. The system’s primary purpose remains the same — to ensure that wages are paid in full and on time through approved financial channels.
According to the updated rules, employers must pay at least 80% of each employee’s salary and ensure that at least 90% of the workforce receives their salaries regularly. Payments must be made within 10 working days from the contractual salary date.
To legally process salary payments and remain compliant, companies must:
- Open a corporate bank account with a UAE-accredited financial institution.
- Enter into an agreement with a licensed WPS agent (a bank or financial service provider).
- Prepare a Salary Information File (SIF) with complete payroll details.
- Upload the SIF to the WPS platform via MOHRE or the bank’s portal.
- Ensure timely and accurate payments according to current legal standards.
How does RSBM support your payroll compliance? At RSBM, we go beyond company formation and bank account setup. We offer full support with WPS registration and compliance — from analyzing your business structure and preparing the required documentation to direct coordination with banks and government authorities.
We ensure every step of the process is handled smoothly, so your payroll runs on time and in full compliance with UAE regulations. You focus on running your business — we take care of the payroll discipline behind the scenes.
Why it matters?
With AML regulations tightening and financial transparency under increasing scrutiny, WPS compliance has become more than a legal requirement — it’s a key element of your corporate credibility. Delayed payments, errors in documentation, or failure to register in the system can result in heavy penalties, license suspension, and restrictions on banking access.
If you’re already hiring staff in the UAE — or planning to — it’s crucial to be prepared. Let RSBM help you register with WPS, structure your payroll process properly, and eliminate the risks before they become issues.
With AML regulations tightening and financial transparency under increasing scrutiny, WPS compliance has become more than a legal requirement — it’s a key element of your corporate credibility. Delayed payments, errors in documentation, or failure to register in the system can result in heavy penalties, license suspension, and restrictions on banking access.
If you’re already hiring staff in the UAE — or planning to — it’s crucial to be prepared. Let RSBM help you register with WPS, structure your payroll process properly, and eliminate the risks before they become issues.