ABU DHABI: Lunate Capital LLC (Lunate) has introduced Ghaf Benefits, an Alternative End-of-Service Benefits fund platform designed to strengthen employee financial security while simplifying benefits management for employers. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) vision to enhance workplace benefits.

Named after the Ghaf tree, a symbol of resilience and stability, Ghaf Benefits allows private sector employers to invest their employees’ end-of-service gratuity into Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA)-licensed funds, regulated by both MoHRE and SCA. These funds, managed by Lunate, aim to generate potential investment returns, providing employees with a financial foundation for their future.

Highlighting the platform’s significance, ADQ, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor, has signed an MoU with Lunate to explore becoming an early adopter. This move reflects ADQ’s commitment to attracting top talent with competitive employee benefits.

Ghaf Benefits will offer six investment funds, covering conventional and Shariah-compliant options, catering to different risk appetites. Strategies include capital protection, conservative, and balanced funds, with an option for employers and employees to supplement fixed contributions with voluntary investments. Lunate also plans to collaborate with global service providers for operational and technological support.

Seif Fikry, Managing Partner at Lunate, stated, “Ghaf Benefits is a transformative initiative that strengthens the UAE’s progressive gratuity framework. With interest from leading organizations like ADQ, we are confident in our ability to help businesses empower their workforce through our global investment expertise.”

The UAE’s Alternative End-of-Service Benefits Scheme, approved in 2023, enhances financial security and positions the UAE as a top destination for global talent.