When Ahmed learned he had been dismissed without warning after five years of service, he felt powerless. But under labour law UAE, he discovered significant protections for employees in situations like unfair dismissal.
In this article, you’ll learn how labour law UAE can protect workers—including end of service uae entitlements, the rights of employees in uae, and the role of lawyers in Dubai for Labour Law.
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What is the new labour law in UAE?
The new labour law in UAE—Federal Decree‑Law No. 33 of 2021, as amended by Decree‑Law No. 9 of 2024 (effective 31 August 2024)—sets the modern statutory framework governing employment across all Emirates.
Key features include:
- Fixed‑term contracts only: unlimited contracts are phased out, maximum three‑year terms renewably issued.
- Capped working hours: 8 hours/day or 48 hours/week, with reduced hours during Ramadan and mandatory overtime pay (25–50%).
- Annual leave: at least 30 days per year, or prorated leave if less than one year of service.
- End‑of‑service UAE gratuity: entitlement after one year of service, calculated by law (and alternative saving schemes available).
- Unfair dismissal protection: Article 47 forbids termination for filing complaints or lawsuits. Remedies include compensation up to 3 months’ salary, unpaid dues, and delay interest.
The rights of employees in UAE under this law now include access to dispute resolution via MoHRE, salary continuation during grievance processes (up to two months), and clear disciplinary procedures under Articles 39‑47.
How to get labour contract online
Securing a valid labour contract online in the UAE is streamlined through MOHRE’s digital channels:
- Employer initiates work permit application via MoHRE website or mobile app – now fully digital as of 2025.
- Once approved, the worker enters UAE, undergoes medical testing, receives Emirates ID and labour card, and the labour contract online is uploaded and registered within MoHRE’s system.
- Contracts may include remote or hybrid roles under the 2025 framework, requiring written agreements covering hours, benefits, KPIs equal to onsite employees.
Employees should always ensure the contract clearly states duration, job role, wages, leave entitlements, probation period, and termination rules.
A MOHRE‑approved template helps prevent disputes later, including unfair dismissal claims or disagreements about end of service UAE gratuity.
Rights of employees in UAE
Under the updated labour law UAE, workers now enjoy robust statutory protections:
- Leave and rest periods: one day weekly rest, paid annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave per law.
- Salary protection and overtime rules enforced via Wage Protection System (WPS) and inspection units of MoHRE.
- Protection against passport confiscation, forced visa payments, or unlawful contract changes under Federal Law No. 6 of 1973 on residence.
- Unfair dismissal remedies: lodging a complaint with MoHRE, possible compensation, back pay, gratuity, notice period salary and delay interest if employer delays dues.
Role of Lawyers in Dubai for Labour Law
When your employment rights under labour law UAE are threatened—whether through unfair dismissal, withheld gratuity, or denial of leave—a qualified legal advisor becomes crucial. Lawyers in Dubai for Labour Law play a vital role in:
- Reviewing contracts and advising on legal compliance
- Drafting and submitting complaints to MoHRE
- Negotiating settlements or representing clients in labour tribunals
- Enforcing judgments to recover end of service UAE benefits, notice period, and compensation
Our lawyers in Dubai specialise in employment disputes, with proven experience in resolving complex labour disagreements in courts and MoHRE forums.
FAQ
In summary, the labour law UAE has evolved into a more balanced, protective framework for employees—covering rights of employees in UAE, regulated procedures to prevent unfair dismissal, and clear rules on end of service UAE benefits. If your rights are threatened or your contract is unclear, consulting lawyers in Dubai for Labour Law can make the difference in securing legal justice.
labour law in UAE is no longer an obscure set of rules—it empowers you when properly understood and applied. For tailored guidance and representation, contact our lawyers in Dubai via WhatsApp below.
