For many OFWs in the Gulf, labor agreements may sound far from daily life.
But behind every contract, complaint process, and worker protection rule, there are talks between governments that shape how migrant workers are treated abroad.
That is why the latest meeting between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates matters.
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A Meeting in Geneva with OFWs in Mind
Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac met with UAE Minister of Human Resources and Emiratization Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar at the UAE’s Permanent Mission in Geneva.
The meeting was held during the 114th International Labor Conference.
Their discussion focused on the upcoming Abu Dhabi Dialogue workshops and activities set for next year.
The talks are part of the Philippines’ work as chair of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue for the 2026 to 2028 cycle.
The UAE, meanwhile, continues to serve as the permanent secretariat of the regional platform.
Why the Abu Dhabi Dialogue Matters
The Abu Dhabi Dialogue brings together labor-sending countries and Gulf destination countries.
Its goal is to improve cooperation on temporary labor migration.
The talks do not mean instant changes for OFWs.
But they help governments agree on common steps that can later affect labor programs, worker support systems, and regional migration practices.
Philippines to Host Key Meetings Next Year
Preparations are already moving.
Before the high-level meeting, UAE Secretariat Undersecretary Shaima Yousef Al Awadhi met with the DMW team led by Undersecretary Jainal Rasul, Jr.
They discussed the Abu Dhabi Dialogue’s Thematic Agenda and Technical Meetings, which will be hosted in the Philippines next year.
These meetings will help prepare for bigger events later in the cycle.
They will lead toward the Senior Officials Meeting and the Ministerial Consultation in 2028.
