Best Payroll Software UAE 2026: Top 10 Platforms Compared

What Makes Great Payroll Software for UAE?

Quick Summary: The best UAE payroll software must handle WPS compliance, generate accurate SIF files, calculate gratuity per UAE labor law, and integrate with attendance systems. Top platforms include RadixHR (best for biometric integration and manufacturing), Bayzat (best for startups with insurance needs), Yomly (best for large enterprises), ZenHR (best for Arabic-first organizations), and Zoho Payroll (best for existing Zoho users).

Choosing payroll software in the UAE isn't just about processing salaries—it's about navigating a complex compliance landscape that includes the Wage Protection System (WPS), MOHRE regulations, gratuity calculations, and pension fund contributions.

With the UAE's upgraded WPS system in late 2025 introducing real-time validation and automated enforcement, the stakes for choosing the right payroll platform have never been higher. A single SIF file error can mean blocked work permits or fines up to AED 50,000.

This guide compares the top 10 payroll software platforms available in the UAE market, evaluating them on the criteria that matter most to HR decision-makers.

Key Evaluation Criteria

Before diving into individual platforms, here's what we evaluated:

Criteria	Why It Matters
WPS Compliance	Mandatory for all UAE private sector employers
SIF File Generation	Required for WPS salary submissions
Gratuity Calculation	Must align with UAE labor law (21/30 days formula)
Attendance Integration	Biometric and geofencing for accurate payroll
UAE Localization	Arabic support, GPSSA, free zone handling
Ease of Use	Reduces training time and errors
Mobile Access	Employee self-service for payslips
Implementation	Time to go live and support quality

---

1. RadixHR

Overview

RadixHR is a UAE-built HR and payroll platform designed specifically for businesses with complex workforce needs—particularly those in manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and construction. The platform stands out for its deep biometric integration and industry-specific features.

Key Strengths

Biometric & Attendance Integration: RadixHR offers native integration with biometric devices, facial recognition systems, and geofencing for mobile workforces. This is critical for industries where accurate time tracking directly impacts payroll accuracy.

Industry-Specific Features: The platform includes specialized modules for shift scheduling, overtime calculation per UAE labor law rates (25% day, 50% night), and multi-location workforce management. This makes it particularly suited for manufacturing plants, retail chains, and hospitality businesses.

WPS Compliance:

• Automated SIF file generation in MOHRE-approved format
• Real-time validation before submission
• Support for multiple bank formats and exchange houses
• Gratuity calculation aligned with Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021

AI-Powered Assistance: RadixHR includes an AI assistant that helps HR teams with compliance questions, policy queries, and payroll troubleshooting—reducing dependency on external consultants.

Best For

• Manufacturing companies with shift workers
• Retail and hospitality businesses
• Companies needing biometric attendance integration
• Organizations with distributed or mobile workforces

Considerations

• Newer platform compared to some established competitors
• Best suited for UAE-focused operations rather than multi-country deployments

---

2. Bayzat

Overview

Bayzat is a UAE-based platform that combines HR, payroll, and employee benefits (including insurance) in a single solution. With over 4,000 companies using the platform, it's one of the most recognized names in the UAE HR tech market.

Key Strengths

All-in-One Platform: Bayzat uniquely integrates payroll with health insurance and employee benefits, reducing the administrative burden of managing multiple vendors. This is particularly valuable for companies that want a unified compensation and benefits experience.

WPS Compliance:

• Built-in SIF file generator compliant with UAE WPS requirements
• Supports payments through UAE banks and exchange houses like Lulu Exchange
• Automatic gratuity and EOSB calculations
• GPSSA pension fund support

Employee Experience: The mobile app allows employees to access payslips, request leave, and manage benefits—improving transparency and reducing HR inquiries.

Regional Expansion: Bayzat has expanded into Saudi Arabia, making it suitable for companies with GCC operations needing consistent HR processes across borders.

Best For

• Startups and SMEs wanting combined HR and insurance
• Companies prioritizing employee experience and mobile access
• Businesses operating in both UAE and Saudi Arabia

Considerations

• Insurance integration may not be needed by all companies
• May be more than needed for companies only requiring basic payroll

---

3. Yomly

Overview

Yomly (formerly EmiratesHR) is an enterprise-grade HRMS and payroll platform trusted by global brands like Kärcher, Isuzu Motors, Lufthansa Technik Middle East, and Nord Anglia Education. Founded in 2018, it now serves over 250 clients across 50 countries.

Key Strengths

Enterprise Scalability: Yomly is built for organizations with 250+ employees that need to manage complex payroll structures, multiple entities, and international compliance requirements.

Comprehensive WPS Compliance:

• Generates WPS-compliant SIF files for UAE Ministry of Labour
• Automates format accuracy for direct bank submission
• Real-time payroll reports and audit trails

Full HR Suite: Beyond payroll, Yomly offers recruitment (ATS), performance management, document management with expiry tracking, and employee onboarding—all in one platform.

Multi-Country Support: UAE-hosted data centers with support for operations across the GCC and MENA region. Handles multi-currency payroll and country-specific statutory requirements.

Best For

• Large enterprises with 250+ employees
• Multi-national companies with GCC operations
• Organizations needing comprehensive HRMS beyond payroll

Considerations

• Custom enterprise pricing (not ideal for small businesses)
• May have more features than smaller organizations need

---

4. ZenHR

Overview

ZenHR is a homegrown Middle Eastern HR software headquartered in Jordan, explicitly built for the MENA market. It offers an intuitive, cloud-based platform tailored to Arabic-speaking users and local HR processes.

Key Strengths

Arabic-First Design: Unlike platforms that add Arabic as an afterthought, ZenHR was built with Arabic and English interfaces from the ground up. This makes it particularly suitable for organizations with primarily Arabic-speaking HR teams and employees.

UAE Compliance:

• Automatic WPS file generation in MOHRE-approved format
• End-of-service (gratuity) calculations based on contract type, tenure, and termination reason
• Support for multiple workweeks, holidays, and currencies
• Handles both free zone and mainland companies

MENA Regional Coverage: ZenHR supports multi-country rules for UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, and more—ideal for organizations with operations across the Middle East.

Integrations: Native integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, Odoo, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 for seamless financial data synchronization.

Best For

• Arabic-first organizations
• Companies with MENA regional operations
• Mid-sized businesses (30-1000 employees)

Considerations

• Headquarters in Jordan (not UAE-based)
• May have less brand recognition in UAE compared to local competitors

---

5. Zoho Payroll

Overview

Zoho Payroll is part of the broader Zoho ecosystem, offering payroll processing that integrates seamlessly with Zoho People (HR), Zoho Books (accounting), and other Zoho applications. As of December 2025, Zoho Payroll is available across all six GCC countries.

Key Strengths

Ecosystem Integration: For companies already using Zoho products, Zoho Payroll provides seamless data flow between HR, accounting, and other business functions—eliminating duplicate data entry and reducing errors.

WPS Compliance:

• Auto-generated SIF files compliant with UAE WPS
• Download SIF and bank advice files for processing
• GPSSA and ADPF pension contribution management
• DIFC DEWS retirement plan support

Gratuity Automation: Gratuity is automatically calculated based on contract type, separation type, and free zone requirements when employee exits are initiated.

Affordability: Zoho Payroll offers competitive pricing starting from AED 7 per employee per month, making it accessible for small businesses.

Best For

• Companies already using Zoho ecosystem
• Small to medium businesses wanting affordable WPS compliance
• Organizations needing tight accounting integration

Considerations

• Requires Zoho People for full HR functionality
• May lack some advanced features of UAE-specialized platforms
• Support quality can vary

---

6. greytHR

Overview

greytHR is a full-suite HRMS platform serving businesses across the Middle East and Africa. It offers comprehensive payroll, attendance, and compliance automation with strong localization for UAE requirements.

Key Strengths

2025 WPS System Ready: greytHR has updated its platform to support the UAE's upgraded WPS system, which now includes real-time validation, instant payments via Aani, and automated enforcement. The platform auto-generates WPS-compliant SIF files with accurate bank and salary details.

Statutory Compliance:

• GPSSA, ADRBPF, and SSSF deductions automation
• End-of-service/gratuity calculations for GCC countries
• Vacation/annual leave calculations per UAE labor law
• Overtime calculation with 25%/50% rates

Multi-Country Payroll: Run payroll for UAE, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait from a single system with country-specific compliance rules.

Document Management: Visa renewal tracking, contract expiry alerts, and Emirates ID management integrated into the HR workflow.

Best For

• Companies needing multi-country GCC payroll
• Construction and labor-intensive industries
• Organizations wanting comprehensive compliance automation

Considerations

• Interface may feel less modern than some competitors
• Implementation can take longer for complex setups

---

7. Keka

Overview

Keka is a growing HR and payroll platform with strong adoption across HR, finance, and operations teams. With over 12,500 customers globally, it offers end-to-end HR functionality from hiring to payroll.

Key Strengths

Integrated HR Platform: Keka links payroll with attendance, leave, reimbursements, and expense management in one system. This reduces manual data transfer and ensures payroll accuracy.

UAE Compliance:

• SIF file generation for WPS compliance
• Gratuity and final settlement automation
• Multi-currency support for expatriate salaries

Smart Time Tracking: Mobile punch-ins, geofencing, biometric integration, and project-linked timesheets with billable/non-billable hour tracking.

GCC Support: One-stop payroll automation connecting leave and attendance data with social security compliance for all GCC countries.

Best For

• Companies wanting integrated HR and payroll
• Organizations with project-based billing
• Businesses needing modern mobile-first interface

Considerations

• Newer to UAE market compared to local players
• May require more configuration for UAE-specific requirements

---

8. Zimyo

Overview

Zimyo serves over 2,500 organizations with 45+ HR modules designed specifically for Middle East compliance. The platform covers everything from payroll to performance management with deep UAE localization.

Key Strengths

Comprehensive Module Library: With 45+ modules, Zimyo offers one of the most comprehensive feature sets—from core HR and payroll to recruitment, LMS, and employee engagement.

UAE Localization:

• WPS compliance and SIF file generation
• Gratuity calculation per UAE labor law
• Arabic and English interface support
• Designed for UAE, KSA, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and Egypt

Biometric Integration: Seamless integration with biometric devices for accurate attendance tracking, with real-time insights into attendance trends.

Scalability: Serves organizations from SME level up to enterprises with 500-1000 employees.

Best For

• Companies wanting extensive HR module options
• Organizations needing Arabic language support
• Businesses scaling across GCC countries

Considerations

• Large feature set may overwhelm smaller teams
• Implementation complexity increases with module count

---

9. Darwinbox

Overview

Darwinbox is a modern, cloud-based HRMS recognized in Gartner's Magic Quadrant. With over 850,000 employees using the platform and 1 million+ payslips processed monthly, it's designed for large and mid-sized enterprises.

Key Strengths

Enterprise-Grade Platform: Darwinbox offers sophisticated workflow automation, approval chains, and role-based access controls suited for complex organizational structures.

WPS & UAE Compliance:

• Real-time compliance with UAE WPS and tax rules
• Pre-payroll validation for allowances and leave encashments
• Batch validations to detect discrepancies
• Integrated reporting for WPS, social contributions, and payroll costs

RIVeR Framework: Darwinbox's proprietary payroll process (Review, Initiate, Verify & e-approve, Release & Report) streamlines payroll into four structured steps with full stakeholder visibility.

Mobile-First Design: Modern interface optimized for remote teams and hybrid workplaces, with strong mobile app capabilities.

Best For

• Large enterprises needing sophisticated HR workflows
• Companies with hybrid/remote workforces
• Organizations prioritizing modern user experience

Considerations

• Enterprise pricing not ideal for small businesses
• May require significant implementation effort

---

10. Menaitech

Overview

Menaitech is a regional HR software provider with strong presence across the Middle East, offering localized solutions for UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other GCC markets.

Key Strengths

Regional Expertise: Deep understanding of Middle Eastern HR practices and compliance requirements built over years of regional operation.

Payroll Compliance: WPS file generation, gratuity calculations, and pension fund management aligned with UAE regulations.

Arabic Support: Strong Arabic language capabilities for organizations with Arabic-speaking workforces.

Best For

• Companies prioritizing regional vendor relationships
• Organizations needing Arabic-first solutions

Considerations

• Less visibility in international markets
• May have limited integrations compared to global platforms

---

Comparison Summary

Platform	Best For	WPS Compliance	Biometric Integration	Arabic Support
RadixHR	Manufacturing, retail, hospitality	Yes	Native	Yes
Bayzat	Startups, SMEs with insurance needs	Yes	Via integration	Yes
Yomly	Large enterprises (250+)	Yes	Via integration	Yes
ZenHR	Arabic-first, MENA operations	Yes	Via integration	Native
Zoho Payroll	Zoho ecosystem users	Yes	Via integration	Yes
greytHR	Multi-country GCC payroll	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keka	Integrated HR-payroll	Yes	Yes	Yes
Zimyo	Comprehensive HR suite	Yes	Yes	Native
Darwinbox	Large enterprises	Yes	Via integration	Yes
Menaitech	Regional Arabic-first	Yes	Yes	Native

---

How to Choose the Right Platform

For Small Businesses (Under 50 Employees)

Focus on ease of use, affordability, and essential WPS compliance. Bayzat, Zoho Payroll, and greytHR offer good entry points with room to grow.

For Manufacturing & Shift-Based Workforces

Biometric integration and shift management are critical. RadixHR excels here with native biometric support and industry-specific features for overtime and multi-location management.

For Large Enterprises (250+ Employees)

Scalability, workflow automation, and multi-entity support matter most. Yomly, Darwinbox, and ZenHR are designed for enterprise complexity.

For Arabic-First Organizations

If your HR team and employees primarily work in Arabic, ZenHR and Zimyo offer native Arabic interfaces rather than translations.

For GCC Multi-Country Operations

Need consistent payroll across UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other GCC countries? greytHR, ZenHR, and Bayzat offer strong regional coverage.

---

Implementation Considerations

Timeline Expectations

Company Size	Typical Implementation
Under 50 employees	1-2 weeks
50-250 employees	2-4 weeks
250+ employees	4-8 weeks

Implementation time varies based on data migration complexity, integration requirements, and customization needs.

Data Migration

Ensure your chosen platform can import:

• Employee master data (Emirates ID, visa details, bank accounts)
• Historical payroll records for gratuity calculations
• Leave balances and attendance history

Integration Requirements

Consider what systems need to connect:

• Accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, Tally)
• ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Biometric devices and access control systems
• Banking platforms for salary transfers

---

Making the Final Decision

The best payroll software for your UAE business depends on your specific needs:

1. Identify your must-haves — WPS compliance is non-negotiable, but what else is critical? Biometric integration? Arabic interface? Insurance bundling?

2. Consider your growth — Choose a platform that can scale with you. Switching payroll systems is disruptive and costly.

3. Request demos — All major platforms offer demonstrations. See the software in action with UAE-specific scenarios.

4. Check references — Ask for customer references in your industry and company size range.

5. Evaluate support — UAE compliance changes frequently. Ensure your vendor provides timely updates and responsive support.

---

See RadixHR in Action

RadixHR combines WPS-compliant payroll with native biometric integration, AI-powered assistance, and industry-specific features for manufacturing, retail, and hospitality businesses.

What sets RadixHR apart:

• Native biometric and facial recognition integration
• Shift scheduling and multi-location management
• AI assistant for compliance and policy questions
• Built specifically for UAE businesses

Request a demo →

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best payroll software in UAE for 2026?

The best payroll software depends on your business needs. For SMEs with manufacturing or retail operations, RadixHR excels with biometric integration and industry-specific features. Bayzat is ideal for startups needing combined HR and insurance. Yomly suits large enterprises with 250+ employees. ZenHR works well for Arabic-first organizations across MENA.

Is WPS compliance mandatory for all UAE payroll software?

Yes, WPS compliance is mandatory for all private sector companies registered with MOHRE. Your payroll software must generate WPS-compliant Salary Information Files (SIF) and support payment through approved banks or exchange houses. Non-compliance can result in fines up to AED 50,000 and work permit suspensions.

What features should I look for in UAE payroll software?

Essential features include WPS SIF file generation, gratuity and EOSB calculation, GPSSA/pension fund compliance, multi-currency support, Arabic and English interface, attendance integration, leave management, and document expiry tracking for visas and Emirates IDs.

Can I use international payroll software in the UAE?

While international platforms like Deel and Papaya Global can process UAE payroll, they may lack deep WPS integration and local compliance features. UAE-focused platforms like RadixHR, Bayzat, or ZenHR typically offer better MOHRE compliance, SIF file generation, and gratuity calculations aligned with local labor law.

How much does payroll software cost in UAE?

UAE payroll software typically ranges from AED 6-25 per employee per month depending on features and company size. Some platforms offer custom enterprise pricing. Most providers require annual commitments with implementation fees for larger deployments.

What is the difference between HRMS and payroll software?

Payroll software focuses specifically on salary processing, WPS compliance, and statutory calculations. HRMS (Human Resource Management System) is broader, covering recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee engagement alongside payroll. Most modern UAE platforms offer integrated HRMS with payroll modules.

Which payroll software is best for small businesses in UAE?

For small businesses (under 50 employees), Bayzat, Zoho Payroll, and greytHR offer affordable, easy-to-use solutions with essential WPS compliance. RadixHR is ideal for small manufacturing, retail, or hospitality businesses needing biometric attendance integration.

Do UAE payroll systems support free zone companies?

Yes, most UAE payroll platforms support both mainland and free zone companies. However, requirements vary by free zone—DIFC and ADGM have separate frameworks, while DMCC requires WPS compliance. Verify your specific free zone requirements with your chosen platform.

---

Related Resources

• UAE Labor Law 2026: Complete Guide
• UAE WPS Compliance Guide 2026
• UAE Gratuity Calculator Guide 2026
• Gratuity Calculator Tool

---

Last updated: February 18, 2026. Information is based on publicly available data and may change. Contact vendors directly for current pricing and feature availability.