Understanding local labour laws is essential for anyone working in the UAE, whether you’re an expatriate or a local resident. These laws provide a framework that governs your rights and responsibilities as an employee, offering protections that help you navigate the complexities of the UAE’s work environment.
Knowing your rights under these laws empowers you to make informed decisions, whether it’s about your employment contract, working hours, or dealing with any workplace disputes. Understanding your obligations is equally important, as it helps you maintain good standing with your employer and the UAE authorities, ensuring that your stay in Dubai is both lawful and secure. In a rapidly changing environment, being aware of the essential labour laws will also help you avoid potential pitfalls and better manage your career in Dubai. Here’s an overview of the key labour laws that every worker in Dubai should be familiar with:
UAE Labour Laws You Need to Know
1. Employment Contracts
- Types of Contracts: In Dubai, employment contracts are either limited (fixed-term) or unlimited (open-ended). Understanding the type of contract you sign is essential, as it impacts your rights and obligations, including how your contract can be terminated.
- Contract Language: Contracts must be written in Arabic, but you can request a version in English or another language for your understanding. Always ensure you fully comprehend the terms before signing.
- Keep a Copy: It’s crucial to keep a personal copy of your signed employment contract. This document serves as your reference for your rights and obligations and can be vital if any disputes arise between you and your employer.
2. Working Hours and Overtime
- Standard Hours: The UAE labour law stipulates that the maximum working hours are 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. During Ramadan, working hours are reduced by 2 hours per day.
- Sector-Specific Variations: Depending on the economic sector or the nature of the job, the daily working hours may increase or decrease. Certain categories of workers such as employees in hotels, restaurants, security and other jobs may increase working hours up to 9 hours per day. And employees who are in strenuous or harmful jobs may have reduced working hours.
- Commute Time: The time spent commuting from your residence to the workplace is generally not considered part of your working hours.
- Overtime Pay: Employees are entitled to overtime pay at 125% of their regular hourly rate. If overtime occurs between 9 PM and 4 AM, the rate increases to 150%.
3. Rest Days and Public Holidays
- Weekly Rest Day: Workers are entitled to at least one day off per week, usually on Friday. If you are required to work on your rest day, you must be compensated with a substitute rest day or overtime pay.
- Public Holidays: Employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays recognized by the UAE, such as Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, and National Day.
4. Sick Leave
- Eligibility: Employees are entitled to sick leave after completing at least three months of continuous service.
- Duration and Pay: Sick leave is capped at 90 days per year, with the following pay structure:
- First 15 days: Full pay
- Next 30 days: Half pay
- Remaining 45 days: Unpaid
5. End of Service Benefits
- Gratuity Pay: Upon completing one year of service, employees are entitled to an end-of-service gratuity. The calculation is based on your last basic salary and years of service:
- 21 days’ pay for each of the first five years of service.
- 30 days’ pay for each additional year.
- Resignation or Termination: If you resign after serving for more than a year but less than five years, you’re entitled to a reduced gratuity.
6. Termination and Resignation
- Termination: Employers can terminate employees under specific conditions, such as poor performance or misconduct. However, termination must be justified and cannot be arbitrary.
- Resignation: If you wish to resign, you must provide a notice period as stipulated in your contract (typically 30 days). Failure to serve the notice period can result in legal consequences or forfeiture of benefits.
7. Dispute Resolution
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): If you face any labour disputes, you can file a complaint with MOHRE. They will mediate between you and your employer to resolve the issue.
- Court Proceedings: If mediation fails, the case can be escalated to the labour court. It’s advisable to seek legal advice if you go down this route.
8. Sponsorship and Visa
- Work Visa: Your employer sponsors your work visa, which is tied to your employment. If you change jobs, your visa must be transferred to your new employer.
- Exit and Re-Entry: If you plan to exit Dubai and return, ensure your visa remains valid, or you’ll need to reapply.
9. Wage Protection System (WPS)
- Salary Payments: All employers are required to pay their employees’ salaries through the Wage Protection System, which ensures timely and full payment directly to your bank account.
10. Rights of Domestic Workers
- Special Provisions: Domestic workers have specific labour laws covering aspects like working hours, rest days, and employment contracts. They are entitled to a weekly day off and annual leave.
Conclusion
Being aware of these labour laws helps workers in Dubai protect their rights and navigate the working environment with confidence. Always keep yourself updated on any changes to labour regulations, and don’t hesitate to seek advice or assistance if you encounter any issues at work.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the current UAE labour laws as of the time of writing. However, labour laws and regulations are subject to change. We strive to keep this information up-to-date, but we encourage you to visit the official website of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for the most accurate and current details.
