How does end-of-service gratuity and DEWS work in the DIFC?

End-of-service in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is handled differently from mainland UAE. The DIFC Employment Law introduced a funded savings approach: instead of a lump sum calculated only at the end, employers make ongoing monthly contributions into a qualifying scheme — most commonly the DIFC Employee Workplace Savings (DEWS) plan or another certified alternative — for eligible employees. This means an employee's end-of-service entitlement accrues over time into a managed account rather than being paid solely on departure. Eligibility, the contribution basis and how earlier service is treated are defined by the DIFC Employment Law and the scheme rules, and these can be updated, so confirm the current details with your employer and the DEWS administrator rather than assuming a fixed rate. When you leave, you generally claim your accumulated savings through the scheme, alongside any other final dues. Because the DIFC framework is distinct from federal gratuity rules, review your specific position with a verified UAE legal professional on LEXAI familiar with DIFC employment matters.