Abu Dhabi Introduces Voluntary Pension Plan for Nationals

The Abu Dhabi Pension Fund (ADPF) has unveiled a new voluntary pension registration plan aimed at UAE Nationals. This initiative is designed to assist women who temporarily leave their jobs to tend to their children and postgraduate students who are furthering their education, either in the UAE or overseas.

This plan was established under Law No. (18) of 2023 as part of the UAE's “Year of the Family” initiatives. It embodies the Abu Dhabi Government's commitment to fostering family stability, empowering women, and aiding locals in achieving their educational aspirations while safeguarding their pension rights.

The ADPF states that the voluntary plan caters to two primary groups. The first group includes women who opt to leave their jobs to care for their families, provided they were previously registered with the Fund. The second group consists of postgraduate students pursuing Master’s degrees, PhDs, or professional fellowships, regardless of their location in the UAE or abroad.

The Fund clarified that students can apply even if they have never been registered before, as long as they comply with the legal requirements.

To be eligible for this plan, applicants must be UAE Nationals and should not be enrolled as insured employees with any employer under the Abu Dhabi pension framework at the time of application.

ADPF detailed that the required contribution amounts will differ based on the applicant's status. Citizens who had previous registrations will continue contributing based on their last pensionable salary prior to their departure from work. New applicants may select from 10 salary brackets starting from AED 12,750 to AED 100,000. Additionally, registrants can adjust their chosen salary bracket yearly, adhering to set conditions.

The Fund indicated that individuals registered under the voluntary plan can cancel their entries at any time. Nevertheless, registration may terminate automatically if the individual joins a company covered by the Fund, completes their education, or neglects to make contributions for six consecutive months.

ADPF reassured that individuals can reapply after cancellation if they continue to meet all eligibility criteria. Pension contribution durations will be computed based on actual payments made during the registration period.

Moreover, the Fund emphasized that those signed up under this voluntary system will enjoy the same insurance benefits and pension rights as private sector workers registered with ADPF.

Eligible citizens can send in their applications via the TAMM digital platform. ADPF also urged residents to keep an eye on its official social media outlets for comprehensive details about eligibility, benefits, and the registration procedure.

His Excellency Khalaf Al Hammadi remarked that the pension system in Abu Dhabi is developed to support citizens throughout various life stages, including education, employment, and familial responsibilities.

He added that this new plan addresses the genuine needs encountered by many citizens, particularly those pursuing advanced degrees or parenting, enabling them to continue building their pension benefits without interruption.