When you join a company in the UAE, understanding your rights of employees in UAE is essential for protecting your interests from day one. In this article, we will explain how the rights of employees in UAE are enshrined under the labour law UAE, and what you are entitled to under end of service UAE regulations.
Whether you are a new hire or planning your exit, being aware of these rights boosts your confidence and safeguards your future.
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What ayre the Rights of Employees in UAE?
Under labour law UAE, employees enjoy a comprehensive set of protections and benefits.
Key rights include:
1. Employment contract & probation
Employees must receive a written contract in English and Arabic that clearly states salary, job title, working hours, and probation period. During probation up to six months, termination can usually occur with minimal notice.
2. Working hours, leave & rest days
Labour law UAE limits working hours to 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. Employees are entitled to one rest day weekly, and paid annual leave of at least 30 calendar days after one year of service, in addition to public holidays.
3. Health insurance and workplace safety
Employers must provide health insurance and maintain safe working conditions. If workplace injury occurs, employees receive full medical care and compensation in line with end of service UAE compensation if treatment leads to termination.
4. Wages and timely payment
Wages must be paid at least once a month, on or before the last working day. Employers may not delay payment. Wrongful deductions or non-payment are violations under labour law UAE.
5. Freedom from discrimination and harassment
Employees have the right to a workplace free from discrimination based on nationality, gender, religion, or disability. Harassment or unfair treatment is prohibited by UAE labour regulations.
6. Gratuity and end-of-service benefits
Under end of service UAE rules, employees completing one year or more are entitled to gratuity. This is calculated as:
- 21 days’ basic salary for each year of the first five years
- 30 days’ basic salary for each additional year provided termination was not for gross misconduct.
7. Termination notice and severance
Employees must be given notice before termination, typically 30 days. In case of unilateral termination without valid cause, compensation may be due. However, the gratuity is a legal right of the employee after completing one year of service, regardless of what the contract stipulates.
8. Transfer, vacation salary, and repatriation
After termination, employees are entitled to unused leave salary, outstanding wages, and, in certain cases, repatriation expenses back to their home country.
How labour law UAE protects you
Labour law UAE (Federal Decree‑Law No. 33 of 2021, and Cabinet Resolutions) legally enforces employee rights across all private sector companies. Key protections include:
- Contract standards: Contracts must comply with standard model contracts by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Dispute settlement: MOHRE provides mediation for labour disputes before escalating to the Labour Court.
- Work permit conditions: Employers are responsible for visa sponsorship and must not withhold passports or arbitrarily confiscate documents.
Employees facing violations can file complaints through MOHRE or Ministry of Labour portals and secure refunds or compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the rights of employees in UAE empowers you to safeguard your position, salary, and wellbeing under the robust protections of labour law UAE and end of service UAE regulations. By knowing your entitlements, from contracts and leave to gratuity and dispute resolution, you can confidently manage your career journey in the UAE.
The rights of employees UAE are not just legal provisions—they form the foundation of fair, secure, and dignified work.
Get professional support from our lawyers in Dubai, click the WhatsApp button now and contact us to protect your employment rights in the UAE.
Legal Disclaimer
The information above is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult a licensed attorney in the United Arab Emirates.
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