Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Abu Dhabi Pension Fund (ADPF) has implemented a voluntary registration scheme that allows UAE Nationals to voluntarily register in the pension system.
The scheme is designed to support women with children who wish to leave employment to care for their families, as well as postgraduate students studying within the UAE or abroad.
The activation of this newly introduced scheme comes in accordance with Law No. (18) of 2023, coinciding with the Year of the Family. It also reflects the fund’s commitment to supporting the efforts of the Abu Dhabi Government in strengthening family stability, enhancing the role of women, and empowering citizens to continue their educational journeys and achieve their academic aspirations, in a manner that contributes to reinforcing family cohesion and strengthening its role as a fundamental pillar of society.
ADPF explained that the voluntary registration scheme covers two main categories: -women with children who wish to leave employment to care for their children, provided they have a previous registration with the Fund
-postgraduate students pursuing Master’s, PhD, or professional fellowships, whether studying within the UAE or abroad, regardless of whether they have previously registered with the Fund or are registering for the first time, in accordance with the conditions set by law
ADPF noted that applicants must meet several general eligibility criteria, including being a UAE National and not being registered as an insured employee with any employer subject to the Abu Dhabi pension system at the time of application.
It further clarified that the monthly contributions paid by voluntary registrants depend on the applicant’s status. For those with a previous registration, contributions are calculated based on the last pensionable salary prior to leaving employment.
For new registrants, they may select from 10 salary brackets ranging from Dh12,750 up to Dh100,000, with the option to adjust annually in line with the applicable terms and conditions.
ADPF indicated that registrants may terminate their registration at any time voluntarily. However, the registration will be terminated mandatorily if the individual joins an employer covered by the Fund, completes their studies, or fails to pay contributions for six consecutive months.
It also clarified that individuals may submit a new application after termination, provided all eligibility conditions are met at the time of reapplication. Contribution periods will be calculated based on the actual paid contributions.
ADPF emphasised that voluntary registrants are treated, under the law, in the same manner as private sector employees, and are entitled to the same insurance benefits and rights provided by the Fund.
ADPF added that eligible individuals can apply easily through its digital services on the TAMM platform. It also encouraged citizens to follow its official social media channels for detailed information about the scheme, its objectives, benefits, and application process.
Khalaf Al Hammadi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Pension Fund, affirmed that the pension system in Abu Dhabi is built on a people-centric vision, supported by an advanced legislative framework that adapts to the various stages of a citizen’s educational, professional, and family journey. He noted that the Fund continues to strengthen a sustainable pension system that ensures continuity of insurance protection and safeguards citizens’ pension rights and benefits, in line with international best practices.
He added: “The introduction of voluntary registration responds to real life needs faced by some citizens during different stages of their lives, such as pursuing postgraduate studies or caring for children. It enables them to continue building their pension entitlements during such periods without interruption, enhancing the sustainability of their insurance path and providing greater flexibility in planning their professional and family future.”
