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Labor Law& Employment Disputes

Key takeaway: UAE employment disputes — unpaid wages, wrongful termination and end-of-service gratuity — go through MOHRE conciliation before referral to the labor courts. Claims are generally time-barred after one year, so early advice is decisive. Educational information, not legal advice.

Protecting your rights and recovering what you're owed — unpaid salaries, end-of-service gratuity, wrongful termination compensation and MOHRE complaints, handled from filing through to final resolution.

UAE Labor Law: Your Rights at a Glance

UAE labor law is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, in force since 2 February 2022, and applies to all private-sector employees regardless of nationality. Here's what it covers at a high level:

  • Contracts: only fixed-term contracts are permitted, for up to 3 years, renewable.
  • Working hours: a standard 8-hour day / 48-hour week, reduced during Ramadan.
  • Annual leave: 30 calendar days per year after one year of continuous service.
  • Notice period: a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 90 days, as set out in the employment contract.
  • End-of-service gratuity: 21 days' wage per year for the first 5 years, 30 days' wage per year beyond that, capped at 2 years' total wage.
  • Termination: arbitrary or unlawful termination can entitle an employee to compensation of up to 3 months' wage, separate from gratuity and notice pay.

If you believe your rights under UAE labor law have been violated — unpaid wages, wrongful termination, or an unfair contract — our labor law team can evaluate your case and represent you through MOHRE conciliation and, if needed, the labor courts.

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Employment disputes are among the most common legal issues affecting workers and employers in the UAE, arising from unpaid wages, contract terminations and disagreements over entitlements. In this context, Husain Al Ali Advocates & Legal Consultants provides comprehensive legal services in the field of labor law, supported by extensive practical experience and a thorough understanding of the UAE Labour Law and its executive regulations.

Scope of Our Services in Labor Disputes

  • Unpaid Salaries & End-of-Service Gratuity

    Recovering unpaid wages and end-of-service gratuity entitlements.

  • Wrongful & Arbitrary Termination Claims

    Claims arising from wrongful or arbitrary termination of employment.

  • Employment Contract Drafting & Review

    Drafting and reviewing employment contracts for employers and employees.

  • MOHRE Complaints & Labor Court Representation

    Representation before MOHRE and the competent labor courts.

  • Work Injury & Compensation Claims

    Compensation claims for work-related injuries.

  • Visa, Work Permit & Sponsorship Disputes

    Disputes relating to visas, work permits and employment sponsorship.

Filing a Labor Complaint in the UAE — Step by Step

  1. Case evaluationWe assess the merits of your claim, calculate entitlements and gather supporting documents.
  2. MOHRE complaint & conciliationA complaint is filed with MOHRE, which attempts conciliation between employer and employee before referral.
  3. Referral to the Labor CourtIf unresolved, MOHRE refers the case to the competent Labor Court or Judicial Committee.
  4. Hearings & judgmentEvidence is presented at hearings, a judgment is issued, and enforcement is pursued if required.

Termination With Cause vs. Without Cause

How termination grounds affect an employee's entitlements under UAE law
TypeGroundsTypical outcome
With causeSerious misconduct such as fraud, disclosure of secrets or repeated unexcused absence (Article 44 grounds)Termination without notice; gratuity may be forfeited in serious cases
Without cause / arbitraryNo valid reason, or dismissal linked to a pending complaint against the employerCompensation for arbitrary dismissal, up to three months' wages

We are committed to the highest standards of professionalism and transparency, representing employees and employers alike before MOHRE and the labor courts while closely monitoring every stage of the case until entitlements are secured and enforced. Our goal is to protect your rights and achieve a fair outcome under the UAE Labour Law.

Related guide: The UAE labour dispute process: from MOHRE complaint to court

Do not rely solely on the information available on the website; you should consult a lawyer to clarify many matters.

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Labor law FAQ

How do I file a labor complaint in the UAE?

Submit a complaint to MOHRE (or the Judicial Committee for domestic workers) online, via the app, or in person. MOHRE attempts conciliation before referring unresolved cases to the Labor Court.

What is the end-of-service gratuity entitlement?

Employees who complete at least one year of continuous service are generally entitled to 21 days' basic salary per year for the first five years, and 30 days' basic salary per year thereafter, subject to the UAE Labour Law.

Can I claim compensation for wrongful termination?

Yes. If your employment is terminated arbitrarily or in breach of the Labour Law, you may be entitled to compensation of up to three months' wages, in addition to any other unpaid entitlements.

How long do I have to file a labor claim after leaving my job?

Labor claims are generally subject to a one-year limitation period from the date the entitlement becomes due, so it is important to seek advice promptly.