Employee benefits are an important part of any company's compensation package. They can help to attract and retain top talent, improve employee morale, and boost productivity. However, creating a benefits program that has a lasting impact is not easy. It requires a strategic, long-term commitment.

In this article, we will discuss how to create a benefits program that leaves a lasting impact in the UAE and GCC and look at examples of local businesses that have successfully used employee benefits as a key strategy to retain talent. We will cover topics such as sustained employee engagement, continuous program evaluation, and adapting offerings to evolving employee needs. 

Sustained Employee Engagement

The first step in creating a lasting impact with employee benefits is to ensure that employees are engaged with the program. This means that employees need to understand the value of the benefits that they are offered, and they need to feel that the program is fair and equitable.

There are a number of ways to engage employees with a benefits program. One way is to provide regular communication about the program, including updates on changes and new offerings. Another way is to offer opportunities for employees to give feedback on the program.

Continuous Program Evaluation

It is also important to continuously evaluate the benefits program to ensure that it is meeting the needs of employees. This means regularly surveying employees to get their feedback on the program. It also means tracking metrics such as employee turnover and satisfaction levels.

By continuously evaluating the benefits program, companies can ensure that they are making necessary changes to keep the program relevant and effective.

Adapting Offerings to Evolving Employee Needs

The needs of employees change over time. As a result, it is important to adapt the benefits program to meet those changing needs. This means regularly reviewing the benefits that are offered and making changes as needed.

For example, if the cost of living in the UAE and GCC increases, companies may need to offer more financial benefits to help employees afford to live in the region. Or, if the workforce becomes more diverse, companies may need to offer more benefits that are tailored to the needs of different cultures and religions.

Case studies: UAE corporates with great employee benefit packages

• Etihad Airways: Etihad Airways is a UAE-based airline that offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees. The package includes health insurance, life insurance, gym membership, and discounted meals. Etihad Airways also offers a number of unique benefits, such as discounted flights for employees and their families, and discounted hotel rates. As a result of its generous benefits package, Etihad Airways has been able to attract and retain top talent.

• Dubai International Airport: Dubai International Airport is the busiest airport in the world by international passenger traffic. The airport offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, which includes health insurance, life insurance and paid time off. Dubai International Airport also offers a number of unique benefits, such as free transportation to and from work, and discounted meals at airport restaurants.

• Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC): ADNOC is the largest oil and gas company in the UAE. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, which includes health insurance, child educational assistance, access to gym & wellness facilities and subsidised housing. ADNOC also offers a number of unique benefits, such as the possibility to take out personal loans and discounts on car purchases.

These are just a few examples of companies that have implemented employee benefits and seen success. By offering a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, companies can attract and retain top talent, improve employee morale, and boost productivity.

Conclusion

Creating a lasting impact with employee benefits is a strategic, long-term commitment. By focusing on sustained employee engagement, continuous program evaluation, and adapting offerings to evolving employee needs, companies can create benefits programs that have a positive impact on their employees and their bottom line.