UAE savings: Harbour Real Estate first private sector firm to join National Bonds end-of-service investment scheme

Harbour Real Estate has become the first private-sector company in the UAE to adopt the voluntary alternative to the traditional end-of-service benefits system, National Bonds announced.

The programme is supervised by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in collaboration with the Securities and Commodities Authority, marking an important milestone in the evolution of employee savings and financial security frameworks.

The development reflects a wider trend among UAE companies seeking safe, innovative investment models that support long-term employee savings while enhancing the competitiveness of the national labour market.

New UAE savings model

Under the programme, Harbour Real Estate employees can invest their savings through the National Bonds Capital Protected Shari’a Compliant Fund, which provides low-risk investment tools designed to deliver stable returns during their years of service.

Employees may also make voluntary contributions of up to 25 per cent of their annual salary, encouraging stronger financial planning habits and long-term savings behaviour.

Mohammed Qasim Al Ali, Group CEO of National Bonds, said: “Harbour Real Estate’s participation reaffirms the growing trust companies place in National Bonds’ programmes. With more than 19 years of experience in the UAE’s savings and investment landscape, we have built a reputation as a reliable partner for both public and private entities.

“The rising awareness among companies of the need to offer employees a more sustainable and future-focused savings system strengthens our role in providing safe, effective solutions that benefit both employers and their teams”.

Strengthening employee benefits

Dr. Mohanad Alwadiya, CEO of Harbour Real Estate, said: “We are proud to be the first private-sector company to join National Bonds’ end-of-service savings scheme, reflecting our support for innovative government initiatives that promote transparency and encourage employers to channel end-of-service funds into approved, locally managed solutions such as National Bonds.

“This step also underscores our commitment to offering our employees a stable and forward-looking work environment, enabling them to build a more secure financial future through savings options that protect their rights and meet their long-term aspirations”.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation oversees the Capital Protected Shari’a Compliant Fund, one of the first approved options under the voluntary scheme.

It enables employers to invest end-of-service benefits in a safe, Shari’a-compliant structure while seeking competitive returns that reflect broader market performance.

Digital tools support efficiency

The fund includes a digital smart application that allows employees to track their savings and returns in real time.

Employers also benefit from more efficient management of end-of-service entitlements, reduced administrative burdens and enhanced ability to offer competitive benefits that support talent attraction and retention.