DIFC Employee Savings Plan Reaches $1 Billion Milestone

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced that its pioneering employee savings initiative, the DIFC Employee Workplace Savings (DEWS) scheme, has surpassed USD 1 billion in Assets under Administration (AuA). Launched in February 2020, DEWS was the first program of its kind in the Middle East, offering a modern alternative to the traditional end-of-service gratuity system.

Modern Approach to Employee Savings

Unlike conventional gratuity schemes, DEWS provides a fully funded, professionally managed savings plan that emphasizes transparency, long-term financial security, and sustainability for employees. Participants can grow their savings through diversified investment options, while employers benefit from adopting international best practices in workforce benefits.

Rapid Adoption Across Dubai

Since its inception, DEWS has gained strong traction across the DIFC community and extended to expatriates in 61 Government of Dubai entities. Over 2,726 employers have enrolled, and more than 74,000 individuals are registered, enjoying regulated savings with the flexibility to manage and invest their end-of-service funds. The scheme has already facilitated payouts exceeding USD 340 million, demonstrating the trust of participants and the robustness of its governance framework.

Professional Management and Oversight

DEWS operates through strategic partnerships to ensure efficiency and reliability. Equiom serves as the master trustee providing independent oversight, Zurich Workplace Solutions (Middle East) manages operational aspects, and Mercer oversees the investment funds. This structured approach ensures professional administration, diversified investment opportunities, and secure growth for participants’ funds.

By combining financial security, flexibility, and transparency, DEWS sets a new standard for workplace savings in the Middle East. The initiative not only protects the financial future of Dubai’s workforce but also strengthens the city’s reputation as a forward-thinking global financial hub. It attracts international talent and supports sustainable economic growth, positioning Dubai as a leader in modern employee benefits.

The DEWS scheme represents a transformative step in workforce financial management, demonstrating how innovative financial solutions can replace traditional systems while providing better security and growth potential. As participation continues to rise, DIFC aims to expand the program further, making it a model for workplace savings across the region.