How UAE Pension (GPSSA) Contributions Work
GPSSA pension contributions apply to UAE and GCC national employees, split between employee, employer, and a government share. Here's how they work.
What is GPSSA?
The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) runs the UAE's pension scheme for Emirati nationals (and, under GCC rules, other GCC nationals working in the UAE). Expatriate employees are not covered — they receive end-of-service gratuity instead.
Who contributes
For a covered national employee, monthly pension contributions come from three sources:
- The employee's share (deducted from salary)
- The employer's share
- A government contribution in some cases (sector and emirate dependent)
Because the exact percentages vary by sector and emirate, the GPSSA Calculator keeps the rates editable so you can match your situation.
The contribution salary
Contributions are based on a defined "contribution salary" (broadly basic plus certain allowances), within set minimum and maximum limits — not necessarily total pay.
How to estimate
- Enter the employee's contribution salary.
- Apply the employee and employer percentages for your sector.
- The tool returns the monthly and annual contributions.
Budget Emirati hiring accurately
Knowing the full employer cost — salary plus pension — matters for Emiratisation planning. Use the GPSSA Calculator alongside the Gratuity Calculator for expat staff, and keep payroll clean in Pyalm Books.