Employee rights in United Arab Emirates

General Employee Rights in the UAE

Employees in the UAE are entitled to a framework of rights under labour law that ensures fair treatment, safe working conditions, and access to benefits. These rights are clearly defined through statutory provisions and ministerial decisions.

Right to non-discrimination & equal opportunity

Employees are protected from discrimination based on race, colour, sex, religion, national or social origin, or disability. Equal pay for equal work is guaranteed regardless of gender.

Right to rest & working hour limits

Standard working hours are 8 per day or 48 per week, with reduced hours during Ramadan. Overtime pay applies for extra hours unless the employee is in an exempt category, such as managerial roles.

Right to a safe & healthy workplace

Employers must ensure safe working conditions, provide training and protective equipment, and comply with occupational health and safety requirements.

Right to freedom of movement

Employers cannot confiscate passports or force employees to work against their will.

Employee Protections in the UAE

Employee protections are built into UAE labour law, providing mechanisms to safeguard workplace rights and ensure fairness.

Protection against unfair dismissal

Dismissals must be for valid reasons and follow statutory notice periods. Arbitrary dismissal, such as for maternity leave or discrimination, entitles employees to claim compensation of up to three months’ wages.

Wage Protection System (WPS)

Under the WPS, all salaries must be paid electronically through the central bank. Delays of more than 15 days are considered breaches of contract and can result in fines, suspension of operations (loss of ability to process visas, work permits, etc) and employee claims.

Protection through dispute resolution

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) provides accessible, affordable, and fast dispute resolution services, escalating unresolved claims to the courts when necessary.

Job Security in the UAE

Job security provisions cover the full employment lifecycle (before, during, and after employment).

Pre-employment

• Employees must receive a clear written contract registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
• No discrimination in hiring and no recruitment fees can be charged to employees.

During employment

• Terminations must comply with statutory notice (14 days in probation, 30–90 days after probation unless terminated for gross misconduct).
• Arbitrary dismissal claims can lead to compensation of three months’ wages.
• WPS compliance is mandatory to ensure timely salary payment.

Post-employment

• End-of-service gratuity is payable after one year of service.
• Employers must cover repatriation costs (ticket to home country) unless the employee transfers to another employer.
• Non-compete clauses must be reasonable and limited in scope, geography, and duration (two years is the maximum typically accepted).
• Employees may raise termination-related claims for up to one year after leaving employment.