Abu Dhabi Unveils New Voluntary Pension Program for Nationals

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The Abu Dhabi Pension Fund (ADPF) has introduced a new voluntary pension registration program aimed at UAE Nationals. This initiative supports women who take time off work for child care and postgraduate students pursuing their studies both locally and internationally.

Launched under Law No. (18) of 2023, this program aligns with the UAE’s “Year of the Family” initiatives and underscores the commitment of the Abu Dhabi Government to foster family stability, empower women, and assist citizens in achieving academic success while protecting their pension benefits.

The voluntary scheme encompasses two primary categories. The first caters to women who have opted to leave their jobs for family responsibilities, provided they have prior registration with the Fund. The second category encompasses postgraduate students engaged in Master's, PhD, or professional fellowships, irrespective of their study location.

Postgraduate scholars may apply regardless of prior registration with ADPF, as long as they meet legal requirements.

To be eligible, applicants must be UAE Nationals and must not currently be covered as insured employees under the Abu Dhabi pension system when applying.

ADPF clarified that contribution rates will differ based on the applicant’s status. Citizens with previous registrations will continue their contributions based on the last salary before they left employment. New applicants can select from ten salary tiers ranging from AED 12,750 to AED 100,000. Additionally, they will have the flexibility to adjust their salary tier annually per approved conditions.

Voluntary registrants can withdraw their registration at any time; however, it may also automatically terminate if the individual gains employment with a company included under the Fund, completes their education, or fails to make contributions for six continuous months.

ADPF reassured that citizens can reapply post-cancellation if they continue to meet all eligibility criteria. The periods for pension contributions will be calculated based on actual payments made during the registration window.

The Fund emphasized that individuals enrolled in the voluntary scheme will enjoy the same insurance benefits and pension rights as those working in the private sector and registered with ADPF.

Qualified citizens can apply via the TAMM digital platform. ADPF has also urged residents to connect with its official social media channels for further details regarding eligibility, benefits, and the application process.

His Excellency Khalaf Al Hammadi remarked that Abu Dhabi's pension system is meticulously constructed to support citizens throughout various life stages, encompassing education, work, and familial obligations.

He further added that this new initiative addresses the tangible challenges many citizens face, particularly those pursuing advanced education or providing childcare, while aiding them in building uninterrupted pension benefits.

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