Post by : Badri Ariffin

The Abu Dhabi Pension Fund (ADPF) has unveiled a pioneering voluntary pension registration program aimed at UAE Nationals. This initiative is designed to support women who step away from their careers to tend to their children, along with postgraduate students who are continuing their education either locally or internationally.

Instituted under Law No. (18) of 2023, this program aligns with the UAE’s “Year of the Family” initiative. It reflects the commitment of the Abu Dhabi Government to bolster family stability, empower women, and encourage citizens in reaching their educational aspirations while ensuring ongoing pension protection.

As per ADPF’s guidelines, the registration scheme addresses two primary groups. The first consists of women with children who opt to leave their jobs for family care, provided they were previously associated with the Fund. The second group encompasses postgraduate students pursuing Master's degrees, PhDs, or professional fellowships, regardless of whether they are studying within the UAE or abroad.

ADPF clarified that postgraduate students can apply even if they are new to the Fund, as long as they fulfill the legal requirements.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must be UAE Nationals and should not be registered as insured employees under any employer included in the Abu Dhabi pension framework at the time they apply.

ADPF clarified that contributions will differ based on the individual’s status. Nationals with prior registrations will continue their contributions based on their last pensionable salary. New applicants may select from 10 salary categories ranging from AED 12,750 to AED 100,000. Registrants have the flexibility to adjust their chosen salary bracket annually in accordance with prescribed conditions.

Individuals involved in the voluntary program can terminate their registration anytime. However, their status may also automatically end if they join a company covered by the Fund, finish their studies, or fail to make contributions for six continuous months.

ADPF also reassured that citizens can reapply post-cancellation if they continue to meet the requirements. Pension contribution periods will be accurately calculated based on the financial contributions made during the registration window.

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

Eligible citizens can submit their applications through the TAMM digital platform. ADPF encouraged the public to stay updated through its official social media for further details about eligibility, benefits, and the registration procedure.

His Excellency Khalaf Al Hammadi stated that the pension framework in Abu Dhabi aims to support citizens across various life stages, encompassing education, careers, and family obligations.

He underscored that the new program caters to the genuine needs of many citizens, particularly those engaging in higher education or child-care responsibilities, allowing them to continue building their pension benefits seamlessly.

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