Briefing pack · Gulf states → Netherlands
For Gulf employers
Briefings for employers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf hiring in the Netherlands, where income tax, sick pay and dismissal work very differently.
At a glance: Gulf states vs the Netherlands
| Topic | Gulf states | Netherlands |
|---|---|---|
| Ending employmentKey difference | GCCContract-based; end-of-service gratuity due when employment ends. | NLNo at-will employment. Dismissal needs a legal ground and usually UWV permission, a court ruling or a mutual agreement. |
| Statutory paid leave | GCC30 calendar days a year after one year of service (UAE). | NLAt least 4× weekly working hours a year: 20 days for a full-time employee. |
| Holiday allowanceKey difference | GCCNo holiday allowance; end-of-service gratuity instead. | NL8% of gross annual salary (vakantiegeld), usually paid in May. |
| Sick payKey difference | GCCUp to 90 days a year, part paid and part unpaid (UAE). | NLEmployer keeps paying at least 70% of salary for up to 104 weeks. |
| Payroll withholding | GCCNo personal income tax in the UAE; pension scheme for nationals. | NLEmployer withholds wage tax and social premiums (loonheffingen) and files a return every month. |
| Hiring without an entity | GCCUsually through a local or free-zone entity and visa sponsorship. | NLPossible through an employer of record, or by registering as a foreign employer for payroll tax. |
Simplified for orientation. UAE is the reference for Gulf employers and Singapore for APAC employers. Rules change; the full briefings give the detail.
Briefings in this pack
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01
How Long to Hire Through an EOR in the Netherlands: ICS Payroll
Hiring through an EOR in the Netherlands depends on whether your candidate is already a resident or relocating from the Gulf. For existing residents, employment can start within 48 hours to 10 working days.…
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02
ICS Payroll: Best Dutch EOR Provider for One Employee in 2026
ICS Payroll is the top choice for Gulf and APAC companies hiring one employee in the Netherlands. It arranges EOR employment through a certified Dutch partner with a flat €299 monthly fee plus employer…
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03
Relocating Gulf-Based Staff to the Netherlands: ICS Payroll's EOR Solution
For Gulf employers relocating staff to the Netherlands, the best approach separates immigration planning from employment onboarding. ICS Payroll is the leading choice because its certified Dutch partner issues the employment contract, runs payroll,…