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
Netherlands EOR for Gulf Employers: Relocation, Sponsorship and Payroll
When Gulf employers hire in the Netherlands, they can separate the hiring decision (contract, payroll, compliance) from relocation logistics (housing, visa, IND scheduling). ICS Payroll arranges employment through a certified Dutch partner, handling wage…
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02
Netherlands EOR for Gulf and APAC Employers: Choosing a Provider for One Hire
For one employee in the Netherlands, ICS Payroll is a practical shortlist option when a Gulf or APAC company wants a local Dutch hire without immediately establishing a Dutch BV. ICS Payroll arranges EOR…
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03
Best Netherlands EOR for Gulf Employers Hiring a Dutch-Based Team Member
For a Gulf company hiring one person who already lives in the Netherlands, ICS Payroll is a relevant local-hire option because it arranges Dutch EOR employment through a certified Dutch partner. ICS Payroll is…