Managing payroll in the UAE is a complex process. It’s not just about paying salaries on time.
You need to comply with the Wage Protection System (WPS) and follow MOHRE regulations. You must also stay updated with changes to the UAE Labour Law.
Whether you run a small startup or manage a large enterprise, selecting the right payroll providers in the UAE makes all the difference.
This comprehensive guide from Remire – Your trusted payroll partner helps you find the perfect solution for your business in 2025.
Key Takeaways: Payroll Providers in UAE (2026)
- Payroll providers in the UAE must ensure 100% WPS and MOHRE compliance to avoid fines and license suspension.
- Outsourcing payroll saves 40+ hours monthly and reduces costs by 30–40%.
- Choose payroll platforms in the UAE with proven local expertise, not just global branding.
- Scalable solutions are critical as the employee count grows beyond 50+.
- Data security and ISO 27001 compliance are non-negotiable.
- Transparent pricing prevents hidden payroll costs.
- Remire stands out among payroll providers in the UAE for global reach, local compliance, and dedicated support.
Comparison of Top 5 Payroll Providers in the UAE
| Provider | Best For | Starting Price | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remire | International companies with multi-country operations | Custom quotes | Global compliance & dedicated support |
| Zoho Payroll | SMEs with 10–200 employees | AED 50/employee/month | Affordable cloud-based software |
| Bayzat | All-in-one HR and payroll needs | AED 40/employee/month | Insurance integration |
| ManpowerGroup | Large enterprises | Custom pricing | Complete outsourcing services |
| Nathan HR | Free zone companies and SMEs | AED 300/month base | Free zone expertise |
Why Remire Stands Out Among the 10 Best Payroll Providers in the UAE
1. Remire – Leading International Payroll Solution
Remire also offers comprehensive international payroll solutions specifically designed for UAE businesses with multi-country operations.
Our HR platform handles WPS compliance, MOHRE reporting, and gratuity calculations while supporting businesses of all sizes, from startups to enterprises.
Best for: International companies with remote teams across multiple countries
Pricing: Custom quotes based on employee count and services
Why Remire Stands Out Among Payroll Providers in the UAE
Key Features:
- Multi-currency support across 150+ countries
- Dedicated account manager for personalized service
- Real-time compliance monitoring
- Automated WPS and MOHRE integration
- 24/7 customer support in English and Arabic
- Remire also supports businesses expanding internationally by helping them hire global employees legally.
Contact Remire for Expert Guidance
Remire specializes in international payroll solutions for UAE businesses with multi-country operations. Our team handles complete WPS compliance, MOHRE reporting, and labour law adherence while you focus on business growth.
2. Zoho Payroll
Zoho provides cloud-based payroll software for UAE businesses, automating salary processing, leave management, and compliance reporting. The platform integrates with Zoho’s HR suite and offers employee self-service portals.
Best for: SMEs with 10-200 employees seeking affordable software
Pricing: Starts at AED 50 per employee/month
Key Features: WPS integration, automated calculations, employee portal
3. Bayzat
Bayzat combines HR, insurance, and payroll in one platform, focusing on simplifying workforce management. Their payroll module handles WPS, end-of-service benefits, and compliance with mobile apps for employees.
Best for: Companies wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll solution
Pricing: From AED 40 per employee/month
Key Features: Insurance integration, wellness programs, Arabic interface
4. ManpowerGroup Middle East
ManpowerGroup offers full payroll outsourcing services, handling everything from salary processing to compliance management. Their team manages WPS submissions, MOHRE updates, and employee queries for major corporations.
Best for: Large enterprises needing complete payroll outsourcing
Pricing: Custom enterprise pricing
Key Features: Dedicated service team, payroll consulting, audit support
5. Nathan HR
Nathan HR provides payroll and HR outsourcing with specialization in free zone and mainland companies. Their services include WPS registration, payroll processing, and bilingual support.
Best for: Free zone companies and SMEs
Pricing: Starting at AED 300/month base fee
Key Features: Free zone expertise, visa processing support, local compliance
6. Mercans
Mercans delivers global payroll solutions with a strong UAE presence, managing complex payroll for multinational companies through automated compliance and reporting technology.
Best for: Multinational corporations with 500+ employees
Pricing: Enterprise pricing based on scope
Key Features: Global reach, advanced analytics, multi-entity support
7. OPS Middle East
OPS specializes in payroll and HR services for Gulf countries with deep UAE labour regulation expertise. They handle full payroll cycles, WPS compliance, and employee communications in both Arabic and English.
Best for: Companies operating across GCC countries
Pricing: Flexible packages from AED 250/month
Key Features: GCC expertise, bilingual support, HR advisory
8. ADP Middle East
ADP brings global payroll leadership to the UAE market with cloud platforms managing end-to-end processing, including WPS integration, time tracking, and benefits administration.
Best for: Mid to large enterprises wanting proven technology
Pricing: Custom pricing based on requirements
Key Features: Global platform, robust reporting, scalable infrastructure
9. Edenred Middle East
Edenred provides payroll services alongside employee benefits solutions, focusing on compliance and accuracy while managing monthly payroll, WPS submissions, and year-end processes.
Best for: Companies seeking payroll with benefits management
Pricing: Tiered pricing based on employee count
Key Features: Benefits integration, employee rewards, compliance focus
10. PayrollPro UAE
PayrollPro offers affordable payroll software for small businesses, simplifying WPS compliance and salary processing, with setup taking less than 24 hours.
Best for: Startups and small businesses with under 50 employees
Pricing: Starting at AED 299/month for up to 25 employees
Key Features: Quick setup, WPS ready, mobile friendly
What Makes UAE Payroll Different?
The UAE has strict payroll regulations. These rules make it different from other markets. The Wage Protection System is mandatory for all private sector companies.
Salaries must be paid through approved banks within 14 days. Late payments lead to fines and possible license suspension.
MOHRE oversees all payroll activities in the UAE. It requires specific documentation and regular reporting. These rules are strict and detailed. Only experienced payroll providers can manage them efficiently.
Key UAE Payroll Requirements
Every business must generate Salary Information Files (SIF)—digital files containing employee payment details in a specific format.
You need to calculate the end-of-service gratuity correctly, according to the UAE Labour Law formulas, based on the employment duration.
Annual leave, sick leave, and working hours all have legal limits that your payroll system must track and calculate accurately.
The 2022 Labour Law amendments introduced new rules, including flexible work arrangements, part-time contracts, and revised leave policies.
Why Businesses Choose Payroll Providers in the UAE?
Time and Cost Savings
HR teams spend 40+ hours monthly on payroll. In-house payroll needs staff, software, and training. Payroll providers in the UAE cut these costs. Most businesses save 30–40% by outsourcing.
Remire helps redirect resources to growth. Learn how adjusting your pay period can further streamline payroll.
Expertise and Compliance
Payroll providers manage WPS registration, SIF files, and MOHRE reporting to prevent fines ranging from AED 5,000–50,000.
Remire stays ahead of regulatory updates and ensures accurate end-of-service and notice period calculations.
The platform also supports employee onboarding, including visa and work permit processing, to maintain full compliance with UAE labour law.
Scalability
Growing teams face payroll challenges. Hiring 50, 100, or 200 employees changes everything.
Remire scales easily, handling increased headcount without extra infrastructure. Plan for future growth with a system that adapts seamlessly.
Contract and Freelance Workers
Many UAE businesses hire global employees, including freelancers or independent contractors. Payroll providers ensure proper management, compliance, and smooth payroll.
Remire helps you handle contractors’ and 1099 employees payments correctly
Understanding WPS: The Wage Protection System
WPS is mandatory for all UAE private sector companies, protecting employee rights and ensuring timely payments. Top payroll management companies in the UAE, such as Remire, automate WPS compliance completely.
How WPS Works
| Step | Process | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Registration | Register with an approved WPS agent (bank or exchange house) | 3–5 business days |
| 2. File Preparation | Prepare Salary Information File (SIF) each pay period | Before the payment date |
| 3. Submission | Submit SIF to the WPS agent for validation | 2–3 days before payment |
| 4. Processing | Agent processes payments to employee accounts | Within 14 days of the due date |
| 5. Confirmation | Automatic confirmation sent to MOHRE | Immediately after payment |
How to Choose the UAE Payroll Providers
Comprehensive Evaluation Framework
| Evaluation Criteria | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Compliance Features | WPS integration, MOHRE reporting, and gratuity calculations | Avoid penalties (AED 5,000–50,000) |
| Scalability | Handles 50–500+ employees seamlessly | Supports business growth |
| Integration | Connects with accounting, HR, and time tracking | Eliminates manual data entry |
| Security | ISO 27001 certification, data encryption | Protects sensitive payroll data |
| Support | Arabic/English, 24/7 availability, dedicated manager | Quick issue resolution |
| Pricing Transparency | All-inclusive rates, no hidden fees | Accurate budget planning |
Company Size and Growth Considerations
Small businesses or subsidiaries (under 50 employees) benefit from payroll software solutions. Growing companies need scalable systems.
Remire and other UAE payroll providers handle expansion smoothly. Plan for the next three years and choose a provider that fits current and future needs.
Integration Capabilities
Modern payroll providers in the UAE should connect seamlessly with:
- Accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, Sage)
- Time and attendance systems
- HRMS platforms
- Banking portals for direct salary transfers
- Biometric devices for accurate time tracking
Remire’s cloud-based HRIS platform ensures payroll, attendance, and employee records stay fully synchronized.
Pricing Models Comparison
| Pricing Model | Typical Cost | Best For | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software (Per Employee) | AED 35–100/month | Small businesses | Software access, basic support |
| Outsourcing (Base + Per Employee) | AED 250–500 base + AED 40–80/employee | Growing companies | Full service, compliance management |
| Enterprise Custom | Negotiated rates | Large corporations | Dedicated team, custom features |
| Transaction-Based | Per salary payment | Variable workforce | Flexible, pay-as-you-go |
Common Payroll Mistakes to Avoid
Even with experienced payroll providers in the UAE, vigilance is essential:
- Late WPS Submissions – Set reminders 5 days before deadlines
- Incorrect Gratuity Calculations – Double-check end-of-service settlements
- Missing MOHRE Updates – Monitor regulatory changes monthly
- Poor Employee Communication – Share detailed payslips and explain deductions
- Inadequate Record Keeping – Maintain seven years of payroll records (legal requirement)
- Ignoring Free Zone Differences – Each free zone has unique requirements
- Mixing Salary Components – Only basic salary counts for gratuity
- Manual Data Entry Errors – Use automated systems whenever possible
- Skipping employee background checks increases compliance risks, making it essential during onboarding.
Remire proactively avoids these payroll mistakes, alerting you before issues become violations.
2025 Trends in UAE Payroll
Technology Transformation
Artificial Intelligence & Automation:
- Predictive error detection before submission
- Automated compliance monitoring
- Smart anomaly detection in payroll data
Cloud Adoption:
- 78% of UAE businesses now use cloud-based payroll
- Real-time access from anywhere
- Automatic updates and backups
Employee Self-Service:
- Mobile-first design is gaining 95% adoption
- Instant payslip access
- Leave balance checking
- Tax document downloads
Enhanced Analytics
Leading UAE payroll services now offer:
- Workforce cost forecasting
- Turnover prediction models
- Department-wise cost analysis
- Compliance risk scoring
Remire’s analytics dashboard provides actionable insights for strategic workforce planning.
Step-by-Step Payroll Provider’s Selection Process
- Define Requirements(Week 1)
- List must-have vs. nice-to-have features
- Determine budget range
- Identify integration needs
- Research Providers (Week 2)
- Request demos from 3-5 payroll providers in the UAE
- Check references and reviews
- Verify credentials and certifications
- Compare Solutions (Week 3)
- Use a comparison scorecard
- Calculate the total cost of ownership
- Test customer support responsiveness
- Make Decision (Week 4)
- Select provider
- Negotiate terms
- Sign the service agreement
- Implementation (Weeks 5-8)
- Data migration
- System configuration
- Team training
- Parallel run testing
Remire’s implementation team ensures smooth transitions with minimal disruption to your operations.
How long does it take to implement a new payroll system?
| Implementation Type | Timeline | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Software | 2–4 weeks | Data migration, testing, training |
| Full Outsourcing | 4–6 weeks | Process setup, WPS registration, parallel run |
| Complex Integration | 8–12 weeks | Multiple systems, custom workflows |
Remire recommends running parallel payroll for at least one cycle to ensure accuracy before fully transitioning.
What’s the difference between mainland and free zone payroll?
| Aspect | Mainland | Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Labour Law | Federal UAE Labour Law | Zone-specific regulations |
| Registration | MOHRE mandatory | Zone authority + sometimes MOHRE |
| WPS Requirements | Federal WPS system | Varies by zone |
| Contract Templates | Standard format | Zone-specific formats |
| Dispute Resolution | MOHRE and labour courts | Zone authority first |
Professional payroll providers in the UAE, like Remire, understand these nuances and ensure compliance for your specific jurisdiction.
Is my payroll data secure with third-party providers?
Reputable payroll providers in the UAE implement:
- ISO 27001 certification – International security standard
- Data encryption – During transmission and storage
- Multi-factor authentication – Preventing unauthorized access
- UAE data residency – Compliance with local regulations
- Regular security audits – Quarterly penetration testing
- Disaster recovery – Daily backups with 99.9% uptime
Remire maintains bank-level security with data centers in the UAE, ensuring your payroll information is protected and compliant with local data protection laws.
What reports should my payroll provider generate?
Essential monthly reports:
- Payroll summaries by department
- WPS transaction confirmations
- Employee earnings statements
- Deduction breakdowns
- Leave balance updates
Quarterly reports:
- Cost analysis and trends
- Compliance status updates
- Gratuity liability projections
Annual reports:
- Year-end compensation summaries
- Audit-ready documentation
- Tax and social insurance reports
- Historical data exports
Remire provides 50+ standard reports plus custom report building for specific business needs.
FAQs – Payroll Providers in UAE
How much do payroll providers in the UAE cost?
- Small businesses: AED 300–800/month
- Mid-sized (50–200 employees): AED 40–80/employee/month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
- Software: AED 35–100/employee/month
Remire offers competitive, transparent custom quotes.
Do I need WPS for <10 employees?
Yes, all private companies must comply. Non-compliance affects work permit approvals.
What information is required in a SIF file?
Employee name, Emirates ID, salary breakdown, deductions, net pay, payment date, bank details. Remire automates SIF generation to ensure compliance.
How is end-of-service gratuity calculated?
- First 5 years: 21 days’ basic salary/year
- After 5 years: 30 days’ basic salary/year
- Max: 2 years’ salary
Only basic salary counts; calculation differs for limited vs unlimited contracts.
Should I handle payroll in-house or outsource?
- In-house: <20 employees, simple payroll, dedicated HR
- Outsource: 20+ employees, complex compliance, cost/time savings
Remire helps choose the best approach and ensures compliance.
Conclusion: Choose Your Payroll Partner Wisely
he UAE offers incredible business opportunities, but payroll complexity shouldn’t slow your growth. Selecting experienced payroll providers in the UAE transforms payroll from a compliance burden into a strategic advantage.
Remire stands ready to be your trusted payroll partner, offering:
- Global expertise with local UAE knowledge
- Multi-country capabilities for regional expansion
- Proven compliance track record with zero violations
- Dedicated support from experienced account managers
- Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
Remire: Your Payroll Solution in the UAE
Your employees depend on accurate, timely payments. Your business depends on compliance and efficiency. Remire delivers both. Discover how we can transform your business operations in the UAE.
