Labour Law in Dubai: Rights, Regulations, and Compliance
Dubai, as a leading global business hub, has a well-defined legal framework for employment relationships, ensuring the protection of both employers and employees. The UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) governs employment matters in Dubai, covering key areas such as contracts, wages, working hours, leaves, termination, and dispute resolution.
1. Employment Contracts in Dubai
All employees in Dubai must have a written employment contract registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The key contract types are:
✅ Limited (Fixed-Term) Contracts – Have a defined start and end date (up to 3 years, renewable).
✅ Unlimited Contracts (Previously used) – No longer applicable after new labour laws in 2022.
Essential Contract Details
- Job title & responsibilities
- Salary & allowances
- Working hours & overtime policy
- Notice period & termination terms
2. Working Hours & Overtime Regulations
According to the UAE Labour Law:
✅ Standard Working Hours: 8 hours/day, 48 hours/week
✅ Reduced Hours During Ramadan: 6 hours/day for Muslim employees
✅ Overtime Pay:
- 25% extra for overtime work
- 50% extra for overtime between 10 PM – 4 AM
✅ Rest Days: One mandatory weekly rest day (usually Friday/Saturday)
3. Wages & Salary Protection
Dubai enforces strict wage payment rules under the Wage Protection System (WPS):
✅ Salaries must be paid within 15 days of the due date
✅ Non-payment of wages can lead to penalties & work permit bans
✅ End-of-Service Gratuity:
- Employees with 1-5 years of service get 21 days’ salary per year
- Employees with 5+ years of service get 30 days’ salary per year
4. Leave Entitlements
Employees in Dubai are entitled to various types of leave:
✅ Annual Leave: 30 days (for employees with over 1 year of service)
✅ Sick Leave: Up to 90 days per year (first 15 days fully paid)
✅ Maternity Leave: 60 days (45 days full pay + 15 days half pay)
✅ Paternity Leave: 5 days
✅ Public Holidays: As per UAE law (e.g., National Day, Eid, New Year)
5. Termination & Resignation Rules
✅ Notice Period Requirement:
- Minimum 30 days for employees
- Maximum 90 days if agreed in contract
✅ Arbitrary Dismissal:
- Employers cannot fire employees without a valid reason
- Unfair termination can lead to 3 months’ salary compensation
✅ Resignation:
- Employees must serve a notice period
- Employer must provide an experience certificate
6. Dispute Resolution & Labour Complaints
Workers can file complaints with MOHRE in case of disputes, including:
- Unpaid salaries
- Unfair termination
- Workplace harassment
✅ MOHRE Mediation: Free dispute resolution services available
✅ Labour Court: If no settlement is reached, cases go to the Dubai Labour Court
Conclusion
Dubai’s labour laws ensure fair treatment and protection for employees while maintaining a business-friendly environment. Workers must be aware of their rights regarding contracts, wages, leave, and termination procedures to safeguard their interests. Employers, in turn, must comply with labour regulations to avoid legal disputes and maintain a healthy workplace.
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