The UAE has signed up to nine International Labour Organisation conventions to protect workers' rights, and in 2006 was the first country in the region to enact a comprehensive anti-human trafficking law. These conventions spurred the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) to improve the quality of life for 7,000 employees living in workers villages on Saadiyat island. While most workers say they are satisfied with life in Saadiyat Accommodation Village, many have voiced concern about the poor taste of the food. Despite criticism, the purchasing power of the dirham in Southest Asian countries remains a major factor in attracting expatriates to the UAE. Similarly, concerns over passport retention have decreased as the practice has become less common in the UAE.
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More coverage on this topic:
¦TDIC improves the lives of Saadiyat workers
¦Life on Saadiyat: catering staff try to please different palettes
¦UAE has ratified nine international labour conventions
¦Passport retention by UAE companies less common
¦A tour of the Saadiyat Accommodation Village - in pictures
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