Your Rights as a Worker in the UAE
The UAE has made significant strides in strengthening worker protections under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations. Every employee in the private sector, regardless of nationality or job level, has the legal right to file a complaint against their employer if their rights are being violated. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is the primary government body responsible for handling labor disputes and complaints. Understanding the process can help you protect your rights effectively and efficiently.
Common Reasons for Filing a Labor Complaint
The most frequent labor complaints in the UAE involve unpaid salaries or delayed salary payments, which account for approximately 40 percent of all cases. Other common issues include non-payment of end-of-service gratuity, wrongful termination without proper notice or compensation, contract violations where employment terms differ from what was agreed, denial of annual leave or sick leave entitlements, workplace harassment or discrimination, illegal salary deductions, and confiscation of passports by employers — which is a criminal offense under UAE law.
Step-by-Step Process for Filing a Complaint
Step 1: Attempt Direct Resolution. Before filing a formal complaint, try to resolve the issue directly with your employer or the company HR department. Document all communications in writing via email or text message. This documentation will serve as important evidence if the matter proceeds to formal channels. Many disputes, particularly salary delays, are resolved through direct communication.
Step 2: File a Complaint with MOHRE. If direct resolution fails, file a formal complaint through one of several channels. The MOHRE mobile app is the fastest and most convenient method — download it from the App Store or Google Play, create an account with your Emirates ID, and navigate to the Labor Complaints section. You can also call the MOHRE helpline at 800-60, which operates in Arabic, English, Hindi, and Urdu. Alternatively, visit any MOHRE service center in person — no appointment is needed for complaint filing.
Step 3: Provide Required Information. When filing your complaint, you will need your Emirates ID number, labor card number or work permit number, your employer company name and license number, a clear description of the complaint with specific dates and amounts (for salary disputes), and any supporting documents such as employment contract, salary slips, bank statements, or email correspondence.
Step 4: MOHRE Mediation. Once your complaint is registered, MOHRE assigns a mediator who contacts both you and your employer within 2 to 5 working days. The mediation process attempts to reach an amicable settlement. Both parties are called for a meeting at the MOHRE office — attendance is mandatory. Mediation sessions are conducted in Arabic with translators available upon request. If the employer fails to attend, MOHRE can impose fines and refer the case directly to the Labour Court.
Step 5: Labour Court Referral. If mediation fails to resolve the dispute within 14 working days, MOHRE refers the case to the Labour Court. For claims under AED 100,000, the court process is free of charge. For claims exceeding AED 100,000, court fees are capped at 5 percent of the claim amount with a maximum of AED 40,000. The Labour Court typically schedules the first hearing within 3 weeks of referral and aims to resolve cases within 3 to 6 months.
Salary Dispute Specific Process
For unpaid salary complaints, MOHRE has established an expedited process through the Wage Protection System (WPS). The WPS monitors all private sector salary payments in real time. If your salary has not been paid through the banking system as required, MOHRE can verify this instantly and take swift action. Companies that fail to pay salaries for more than 60 days face automatic sanctions including suspension of new work permit issuance, downgrading of the company MOHRE classification, and potential fines of AED 5,000 per affected worker.
Filing a Complaint During Notice Period or After Visa Cancellation
You can file a complaint at any stage of your employment, including during your notice period or after your visa has been cancelled. If your visa has been cancelled, you have 30 days to either find a new sponsor or leave the country. During this period, your labor complaint remains active and will be processed regardless of your visa status. MOHRE can issue a temporary work permit in certain cases to allow you to remain in the country while your complaint is being resolved.
Passport Confiscation Complaints
If your employer is holding your passport, this is a criminal offense under UAE law punishable by imprisonment and fines. Report passport confiscation to both MOHRE and the nearest police station. MOHRE will issue an immediate order for the employer to return your passport. If the employer fails to comply, the matter is escalated to law enforcement.
What Happens After You Win Your Case
If the Labour Court rules in your favor, the employer is ordered to pay the awarded amount within 15 days. If the employer fails to comply, enforcement proceedings can be initiated through the Execution Court. In severe cases, the employer assets can be frozen, bank accounts attached, and travel bans imposed on company directors. MOHRE also maintains a blacklist of non-compliant employers that affects their ability to hire new workers and renew existing permits.
Tips for a Strong Case
Keep copies of all employment documents including your offer letter, employment contract, and any amendments. Save all salary slips and bank statements showing payments received. Document any verbal agreements or promises through follow-up emails confirming what was discussed. Save all written communication with your employer including WhatsApp messages and emails. If possible, have witnesses who can corroborate your claims. File your complaint as soon as possible — the statute of limitations for labor claims in the UAE is one year from the date the violation occurred.
Free Legal Aid
Workers who cannot afford legal representation can access free legal services through several channels. The UAE government provides free legal consultations through MOHRE service centers. The Dubai Legal Affairs Department offers pro bono legal aid for workers with claims under AED 100,000. Several non-profit organizations and embassy labor attachés also provide guidance and support for labor disputes at no cost.