Top 10 Payroll Software for Dubai & UAE 2026
By greytHR
9 minute(s) read•January 27, 2026
In this Article
Quick summary
- Payroll operations in the UAE and Middle East are shaped by regulations such as WPS salary transfers, gratuity and end-of-service calculations, GOSI-related deductions, and differences between free-zone and mainland employment structures.
- This guide compares 10 payroll and HR software tools used across Dubai and the UAE, covering solutions that address these requirements to varying degrees, from focused payroll processing software to broader HRIS and payroll platforms.
- It opens with a quick comparison table, followed by concise vendor profiles explaining what each payroll management software solution in UAE is designed to handle, including support for multi-currency payroll and regional compliance.
- You’ll also find a practical checklist for evaluating payroll processing software, covering WPS SIF generation, reporting, integrations with HR/accounting, mobile access, data migration, and rollout effort.
- The aim is to help readers shortlist confidently and choose the best payroll software Dubai & UAE teams can adopt based on their compliance needs, operating model, and team size, with a clear view of what’s included versus what may require configuration, add-ons, or vendor support.
Why Businesses in Dubai & UAE Need Payroll Software in 2026
Note on fairness & trademarks: Product names belong to their respective owners. They are referenced for comparative, informational purposes under nominative fair use. Always verify features and pricing on vendor sites before purchase.
How We Selected the Best Payroll Software
- Automate payroll calculations, generate WPS‑compliant SIF files and handle gratuity/GOSI deductions.
- Provide employee self‑service portals or mobile apps for payslips, leave requests and expense claims.
- Integrate with HR modules (attendance, recruitment, performance), accounting systems or ERPs.
- Support multi‑currency payroll for expatriates.
- Offer compliance reporting, analytics and dedicated local support.
- Provide flexible pricing and deployment options.
Ordering: Vendors appear randomly, not ranked by preference.
Top Payroll Software for Businesses in UAE & Dubai: Quick Comparison
| Software | Price/Month* | Free Trial # | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| greytHR | $80 | Yes | SMBs and enterprises seeking unified HR and payroll with strong local compliance and scalable HRMS |
| Bayzat | Not Listed | No | Businesses requiring multi-currency payroll, WPS & GOSI compliance, and integration with HR and benefits |
| Keka | Not Listed | No | SMBs seeking payroll with integrated HR modules and advanced attendance tracking |
| ZenHR | Not Listed | No | UAE businesses needing bilingual HR and payroll with mobile apps and payroll compliance |
| Zoho Payroll | $61 | Yes | Start-ups and small businesses using Zoho apps and needing simple, affordable payroll |
| Zimyo | $75 | No | SMBs seeking modular HR and payroll with engagement tools |
| Paylite | Not Listed | No | Medium-sized firms needing WPS-compliant payroll and HR with flexible deployment |
| Yomly | Not Listed | No | Enterprise HR & payroll platform for GCC firms with 250 or above employees |
| ConnectHR | Not Listed | No | Businesses needing payroll plus visa & PRO services for UAE compliance |
| peopleHum | $50 | Yes | Businesses seeking an HR and payroll solution with employee engagement and analytics |
*start price for a 25 people organization, per month, sourced from vendor’s portal, 9 Dec 2025
#greytHR and Zoho Payroll only provide auto-provisioning of trial accounts (that is automatic allocation of a trial software account upon signup form submission).
1-USD convert of price shown in AED as on 26 Dec 2025
2-USD convert of price shown in AED as on 26 Dec 2025
3-indicative pricing for a single plan is shown but not for payroll inclusive plan
Top Payroll Software for Dubai & UAE 2026: Detailed Reviews
1. greytHR
Overview
greytHR combines payroll automation with a full-suite HRMS. It manages payroll, generates WPS files, computes GOSI and gratuity, and includes modules for onboarding, attendance, asset management, documents and analytics.Key features
- Configurable payroll & WPS: Highly flexible payroll engine for complex salary structures, leave settlements and WPS SIF generation.
- Statutory calculations: Automatically computes GOSI contributions, gratuity and end-of-service benefits.
- Self‑service & mobile: Employees access payslips, leave requests and reimbursements via ESS portal and mobile app.
- Reporting & analytics: Hundreds of customizable MIS and compliance reports with payroll analytics.
- Full HRIS integration: Onboarding, attendance, documents, assets and compliance modules with dedicated post‑sales support.
🌟
Highlights
Full-suite HRMS and payroll in one platform; strong compliance and reporting; mobile ESS; free unmetered supportConsiderations
- Advanced performance modules are developing; additional modules may increase cost.
✅
Best for
SMBs and Enterprise seeking unified HR and payroll with strong local compliance and scalable HRMS.2. Bayzat
Overview
Bayzat automates payroll in line with UAE labour laws, generating WPS and GOSI-compliant files and supporting multi-currency payments. It also integrates payroll with HR, expense and accounting modules.Key features
- Compliance automation: Generates SIF files and automates GOSI & EOSB calculations.
- Error-free workflows: Configurable approval flows ensure accurate payroll processing.
- Secure data & audit: Role-based access and audit controls protect payroll data.
- Multi-currency & global payroll: Supports multiple currencies with real-time exchange rates.
- Integration: Links payroll with HRMS, Benefits and ERP; includes expense and loan management.
🌟
Highlights
Strong compliance automation; multi-currency payroll; deep integration with HR and accounting systems.Considerations
- Pricing is custom and may be higher for smaller teams; advanced HR modules must be implemented separately.
✅
Best for
Businesses require multi-currency payroll, WPS and GOSI compliance, and integration with HR and Benefits.3. Keka
Overview
Keka is an HRIS and payroll system designed for SMBs Its GCC variant supports WPS and multi-currency payroll while integrating HR modules such as attendance, recruitment and performance.Key features
- Automated payroll & compliance: Configurable salary components with WPS file generation and gratuity calculations.
- Advanced attendance: Gamified attendance, shift scheduling and overtime automation.
- Expense & benefits: Manages reimbursements, loans and benefits tracking.
- Self-service & mobile: Employees access payslips, leave and expenses via mobile app.
- HRIS integration: Connects payroll with recruitment, performance and OKR modules for unified HR workflows.
🌟
Highlights
User-friendly platform; attendance management; timesheet, and; integrated HRIS modules.Considerations
- Limited free support; Premium support and advanced modules available upon higher subscription. Pricing is quote driven.
- Implementation may require professional services depending on module complexity
✅
Best for
SMBs seeking payroll with integrated HR modules and advanced attendance tracking.4. ZenHR
Overview
ZenHR is a Middle Eastern HR and payroll solution that automates WPS file generation, gratuity calculations and offers bilingual (English/Arabic) interfaces.Key features
- WPS & gratuity: Automates WPS SIF creation and end-of-service benefit calculations.
- Mobile ESS & bilingual interface: Employees manage leave, payslips and attendance via mobile; platform available in English and Arabic.
- Smart attendance: GPS and biometric tracking with shift scheduling and overtime approvals.
- HR & performance: Centralised employee database, document management, performance evaluations and recruitment (ZenATS).
- Analytics & compliance reporting: Real-time dashboards and custom reports including WPS and GOSI
🌟
Highlights
Comprehensive HR modules. Localised for UAE labour law; bilingual interface; mobile ESS.Considerations
- Custom pricing; integration with external accounting systems may require custom connectors; support may vary by country.
✅
Best for
UAE businesses needing bilingual HR and payroll with mobile apps and payroll compliance.5. Zoho Payroll
Overview
Zoho Payroll is a cloud payroll service that integrates with Zoho’s suite of applications. It automates salary calculations, supports WPS compliance for UAE and provides self-service for employees.Key features
- Multi-currency: Supports multi-currency payroll, useful for expatriate teams.
- Automated payroll: Calculates salaries, deductions and allowances; generates payslips; supports direct bank deposits.
- UAE compliance: Generates WPS-compliant SIF files and manages GOSI & gratuity calculations.
- Integration: Links with Zoho Books for accounting and Zoho People/Expense for attendance and reimbursements.
- Self-service portal: Employees access payslips, tax forms and salary breakdown securely.
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Highlights
Seamless integration within the Zoho ecosystem; straightforward cloud deployment.Considerations
- Payroll modules may feel basic compared to full HR solutions; full HR functionality requires additional Zoho subscriptions.
✅
Best for
Start-ups and small businesses using Zoho apps and needing simple, affordable payroll.6. Zimyo
Overview
Zimyo is a modular HR and payroll platform for SMEs. It automates payroll with WPS support and includes modules for employee management, recruitment, performance and engagement.Key features
- Engagement & helpdesk: Includes HR helpdesk, surveys, recognition and social feed (Tribe).
- Employee management: Manages employee profiles, onboarding/offboarding, assets and policies.
- Attendance & leave: Tracks attendance, manages leave and timesheets.
- Payroll & compliance: Automates payroll calculations with UAE labour law compliance; supports WPS and multi-currency.
- Recruitment & performance: Provides ATS and performance management with OKRs and compensation.
🌟
Highlights
Comprehensive HR platform for SMBs; modular plans; mobile self-service; strong engagement features.Considerations
- Newer vendor with smaller ecosystem; advanced analytics limited; WPS configuration may need support.
✅
Best for
SMBs seeking modular HR and payroll with engagement tools.7. Paylite
Overview
Paylite is a GCC-focused payroll and HR system that automates WPS-compliant payroll and end-of-service benefits. It offers both cloud and on-premise deployment.Key features
- Deployment options: Available on-premise or cloud to suit IT preferences.
- Payroll & compliance: Processes payroll, generates WPS SIF and calculates GOSI/EOSB; supports multiple currencies.
- HR & leave management: Manages employee records, leave balances and attendance; integrates biometric devices.
- Self-service: Employees apply for leave, view payslips and update profiles online.
- Integration: Connects with finance systems and ERPs for seamless reporting.
🌟
Highlights
Flexible deployment; comprehensive payroll compliance.Considerations
- Interface may be dated; integration options could require custom development; support may vary by reseller.
✅
Best for
Medium-sized firms needing WPS-compliant payroll and HR with flexible deployment.8. Yomly
Overview
Yomly is a cloud-based HR and payroll platform for GCC organisations. It supports WPS, multi-currency payroll and includes modules for attendance, performance and recruitment.Key features
- Analytics & dashboards: Offers customizable dashboards and reports.
- Payroll & compliance: Processes payroll with WPS file generation and multi-currency support.
- Time & attendance: Uses biometric/geolocation tracking with shift planning and overtime management.
- Performance & recruitment: Provides performance reviews, goal setting and applicant tracking.
- Self-service: Mobile apps allow employees to view payslips, leave balances and HR documents.
🌟
Highlights
Enterprise ready integrated HR and payroll modules.Considerations
- Custom pricing; feature depth may not match global enterprise platforms; support mainly regional.
✅
Best for
Enterprise HR & Payroll Platform for GCC firms with 250 or above employees.9. ConnectHR
Overview
ConnectHR combines payroll processing with core HR and PRO services (visa and government paperwork). It helps UAE companies manage payroll, generate WPS files and handle visa renewals.Key features
- Payroll & WPS: Automates salary calculations and generates WPS files; integrates with banks.
- Time & attendance: Uses biometric/geolocation tracking with shift planning and overtime management.
- Core HR & PRO: Manages employee records, contracts, visa and labour card renewals, and PRO documentation.
- Leave & attendance: Tracks leave balances and attendance with approvals.
- Visa & compliance: Handles visa issuance and renewal, ensuring legal compliance.
- Integration & reporting: Generates HR reports and integrates with accounting systems.
🌟
Highlights
Combines payroll with visa and PRO services; strong local compliance; centralised HR & payroll.Considerations
- Limited advanced HRIS features; product may focus more on compliance than performance or engagement; pricing is bespoke.
✅
Best for
Businesses needing payroll plus visa & PRO services for UAE compliance.10. peopleHum
Overview
peopleHum is a unified HR solution that integrates payroll with recruitment, performance, engagement and analytics.Key features
- Unified HR & payroll: Links employee data, payroll, performance and engagement.
- Recruitment & onboarding: Manages candidate pipelines, interviews and onboarding.
- Performance & engagement: Provides continuous feedback, OKRs, surveys and recognition.
- Self-service & mobile: Employees access payslips, leave and expenses via mobile apps.
- Analytics & AI: Generates predictive insights for workforce planning and retention.
🌟
Highlights
HR solution with employee engagement and performance management; global reach with multi-language support.Considerations
- Payroll functionality may be less advanced than specialised payroll products; full features require multiple modules.
✅
Best for
Businesses seeking an HR and payroll solution with employee engagement and analytics.How to choose the right Payroll Software (decision checklist)
- WPS & compliance: Verify that the software generates WPS-compliant files and manages gratuity/GOSI calculations.
- Payroll flexibility: Look for configurable salary structures, multi-currency support and flexible pay schedules.
- Self-service & mobile: Ensure employees can view payslips, request leave and submit expenses via mobile apps.
- HRIS integration: Decide if you need integrated HR modules (attendance, recruitment, performance) alongside payroll.
- Analytics & reporting: Evaluate the availability of compliance reports, payroll analytics and dashboards.
- Support & scalability: Assess vendor support—greytHR offers free, unmetered assistance—and scalability of modules.
- Deployment & pricing: Choose between cloud or on-premise deployment and compare subscription vs. licence costs.
- Global coverage: If you have expatriates, prioritise vendors with multi-country payroll and multi‑currency features.
FAQs - Best Payroll Software ME
What is the Wage Protection System (WPS) in the UAE?
The WPS is a UAE-mandated electronic salary transfer system that ensures timely salary payments. Payroll software must generate WPS-compliant SIF files to stay compliant and avoid penalties for non-payment or late processing.
Which is the best payroll software for SMEs in the UAE?
Several tools support SMEs, including greytHR, Keka and Zimyo. The best payroll software UAE businesses choose often depends on budget, WPS support, local compliance, and whether HR modules like attendance or onboarding are needed.
Can payroll software handle multi-currency payments?
Yes. Leading payroll processing software like Bayzat, ZenHR and Paylite support multi-currency payroll, enabling businesses to manage expatriate salaries across currencies with real-time exchange rates and accurate reporting.
Do these platforms integrate with accounting or ERP tools?
Most payroll software in the UAE offer integrations with accounting systems or ERPs. Examples include Zoho Payroll (with Zoho Books), greytHR (with external apps), and Bayzat (with HR, expense and finance systems).
Are there free payroll software options for UAE businesses?
Fully free payroll software UAE options are rare due to WPS and compliance needs. However, vendors like greytHR and Zoho Payroll offer free trials that allow businesses to evaluate core features before purchase.
What HR modules are typically included with payroll software?
Many platforms include attendance tracking, leave management, document management, onboarding and performance tools. Integrated HR and payroll software UAE systems help unify employee data and reduce admin duplication.
How long does it take to implement payroll software?
Implementation timelines vary. Cloud-based payroll management software in Dubai can be deployed in a few weeks, while on-premise or custom integrations may take longer. Migration readiness and support availability are key factors.
What kind of customer support do vendors offer in the UAE?
Most providers offer email, chat or phone support. greytHR offers free, unmetered support. Bayzat and ZenHR offer onboarding assistance. Support quality and SLAs vary, so it's best to check each vendor's post-sales model.
How much does payroll software cost in the UAE?
Pricing typically ranges from $40 to $120 per month for small teams, depending on features and compliance depth. greytHR starts at approximately $80/month for 25 employees, with modular plans and free support included.
Legal disclaimer
- All trademarks belong to their respective owners.
- For informational use only; not legal or financial advice.
- Features and prices are subject to change; verify on vendor sites.
- No endorsement or partnership is implied.
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