Understanding Kafala: Historical Context and Related Concepts in the UAE

Understanding Kafala: Historical Context and Related Concepts in the UAE

Introduction to Kafala The Kafala system, a sponsorship framework prevalent in various Middle Eastern countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), plays a significant role in regulating foreign labor. This system, which dates back several decades, was initially designed to facilitate the influx of expatriate workers into economies that required additional manpower, particularly during periods … Read more

Understanding Kafala: A Historical Case Study in the United Arab Emirates

Understanding Kafala: A Historical Case Study in the United Arab Emirates

Introduction to Kafala Kafala, an Arabic term meaning “sponsorship,” serves as a labor and immigration framework prevalent in several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Its origins can be traced back to traditional tribal practices and Islamic law, where it denoted a form of guardianship, often involving the protection of … Read more

Understanding Kafala: Historical Context and Contemporary Implications in UAE Law

Understanding Kafala: Historical Context and Contemporary Implications in UAE Law

Introduction to Kafala The kafala system, a legal framework primarily governing labor and immigration in several Middle Eastern countries, has its roots in traditional practices that date back centuries. Originating from the Arabic word for “sponsorship,” kafala structures the employment relationship between foreign workers and their sponsors, typically local employers or individuals. Historically, this model … Read more

Understanding Kafala: A Historical Perspective in the United Arab Emirates

Understanding Kafala: A Historical Perspective in the United Arab Emirates

Introduction to Kafala The kafala system, a significant labor migration regulatory framework, is predominantly utilized in several Middle Eastern countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE). At its core, kafala serves as a sponsorship arrangement, whereby employers assume responsibility for their foreign workers’ legal status and employment conditions. This system establishes a unique employment relationship … Read more