With the fifth batch of recruits now being called for service, this article looks to remind employers of their obligations in relation to employees who have been called to serve and recent changes which have been introduced. 

By way of recap...

The Law applies only to UAE nationals and is mandatory for males who meet the criteria set out below, but optional for females provided that permission from their parents is obtained. The criteria are that the individual must:

• be between 18 and 30 years old;

• be medically fit; and

• have obtained approval from the UAE National and Reserve Service Committee (“NRSC”) to serve.